Then. Now. Forever.
WWE Backlash France 2024 – Cody Rhodes vs. AJ Styles: WWE Undisputed Championship Match
Match Overview
Date: May 4, 2024 Venue: LDLC Arena (Lyon-Decines, France) Attendance: Approximately 16,000 Match Type: Singles Match for the Undisputed WWE Championship
Competitors
- Cody Rhodes (Champion)
- AJ Styles (Challenger)
Match Background
This match marked the first time the Undisputed WWE Championship was defended in France, giving fans a historic main event. Cody Rhodes, having completed his “story” at WrestleMania XL by defeating Roman Reigns, entered Backlash as the new face of WWE. He came in with pride, heart, and the goal to represent the company with honor.
His challenger, AJ Styles, returned with intensity and focus. As a veteran and former world champion, Styles had nothing left to prove—but everything to gain. After years of coming close, he was determined to climb back to the top by taking down the new champ.
Both men respected each other, but they were ready for a war. The crowd in Lyon was loud, passionate, and eager to witness a WrestleMania-quality match on French soil.
Match Highlights (No Spoilers)
- AJ Styles dominated early with fast-paced counters and brutal knee strikes.
- Cody Rhodes battled back using technical holds and passionate energy.
- Both men kicked out of big moves, including a Phenomenal Forearm and Cross Rhodes.
- The match saw reversals, near-falls, and chants echoing throughout the arena.
- The crowd erupted as the final minutes brought dramatic tension and powerful emotion.
A match that felt like a true championship showdown, built on resilience and respect.
Match Result (Click to Reveal)
Click here to view the match result
Winner: Cody Rhodes (via pinfall after a series of Cross Rhodes) Match Duration: Around 28 minutes
After a thrilling back-and-forth battle, Cody retained the championship and saluted the crowd in Lyon, bringing a flag of France into the ring to show respect.
Match Ratings
| Category | Rating | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Match Quality | ★★★★★ | A technically excellent and emotionally charged contest. |
| Crowd Reaction | ★★★★★ | The French crowd added energy and importance to every moment. |
| Storytelling | ★★★★☆ | Built on respect and pride, it delivered a big-fight feel. |
| Main Event Impact | ★★★★★ | A worthy title defense in a global setting. |
Overall Rating: 9.5/10 – One of the best championship matches of 2024 so far.
Aftermath & Legacy
- Cody Rhodes solidified himself as a fighting champion.
- AJ Styles reminded everyone why he’s still one of the best in the world.
- The Backlash France main event proved WWE’s international expansion is stronger than ever.
- Fans left the arena knowing they witnessed something special.
Final Thoughts
This match was a perfect example of what modern pro wrestling can be—a blend of athleticism, drama, and worldwide connection. Cody Rhodes and AJ Styles gave everything, and the crowd gave it back.
A must-see match that brought WrestleMania magic to France.
Related Links
WWE Rewind Chronicles
