Universal title handicap match announced for WWE Backlash

Braun Strowman’s next Universal Championship defense will be in a handicap match.

It was announced on SmackDown tonight that The Miz & John Morrison will challenge for Strowman’s Universal title in a two-on-one handicap match at Backlash. The pay-per-view is taking place on Sunday, June 14.

The main event of last week’s SmackDown saw Strowman & men’s Money in the Bank winner Otis defeat Miz & Morrison. On tonight’s SmackDown, Miz & Morrison kicked off the show with a Dirt Sheet segment. It led to a singles match where Strowman defeated Miz despite Interference from Morrison.

Strowman then accepted a challenge from Morrison for the Universal title handicap match at Backlash.

At Elimination Chamber in March, Strowman lost the Intercontinental title in a handicap match against Sami Zayn, Shinsuke Nakamura & Cesaro.

Strowman became Universal Champion by defeating Goldberg at WrestleMania 36 in April. Strowman retained the title against Bray Wyatt at Money in the Bank earlier this month, but WWE has made it clear that his rivalry with Wyatt isn’t over.

This is the third match to be confirmed for Backlash. Drew McIntyre vs. Bobby Lashley for the WWE Championship and Edge vs. Randy Orton are also set for the pay-per-view.