Jeff Cobb Debuts, Helps Jacob Fatu Retain The United States Title At WWE Backlash

Jeff Cobb made his debut at WWE Backlash, helping Jacob Fatu to retain the United States Championship in the opening contest on Saturday, May 10.

Fatu defended the United States Title in a four-way against Drew McIntyre, Damian Priest, and LA Knight. McIntyre and Priest were taken out after Priest hit a South of Heaven through a pile of tables as they brawled through the arena.

This brought the match down to Knight and Fatu and the former Eli Drake was about to put the champion through the announce table with a Flying Elbow when Solo Sikoa dragged Fatu to safety. Knight went after Sikoa but ran straight into a punch from Jeff Cobb, who proceeded to beat down LA Knight.

It was hinted that Solo Sikoa had recruited Jeff Cobb without Fatu's knowledge as Jacob looked perplexed at Cobb being at Backlash, before he decided to put Knight away with the Best Moonsault Ever. Post-match, though, Fatu chose not to celebrate with Sikoa and Cobb.

Jeff Cobb had been a part of New Japan Pro-Wrestling until his departure from the promotion in late April, with NJPW announcing they had granted Cobb’s request for his release. Cobb claimed after his New Japan exit that he was retired but reports for weeks beforehand had noted he was expected to join WWE. 

It then emerged ahead of Backlash that Cobb was planned for the show and that he was internally scheduled to be a part of Friday Night SmackDown whenever he made his debut. Cobb was discussed for both the main roster and NXT but the decision was made for Cobb to be on the main roster due to his age, with the former NEVER Openweight Champion turning 43 later this year. 

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