El Grande Americano Costs Penta Intercontinental Title Shot at WWE Backlash, Aids Dominik Mysterio

El Grande Americano interfered in Dominik Mysterio's Intercontinental Title defense at WWE Backlash, using a loaded headbutt to help Mysterio retain.
The masked luchador (suspected to be Chad Gable) has an ongoing feud with the Lucha Brothers, having previously defeated Rey Fenix at WrestleMania 41.
The controversial finish, aided by Judgment Day members at ringside, sets up future clashes between Americano and Penta while extending Mysterio's championship reign.

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Dominik Mysterio’s first premium live event defense of the Intercontinental Championship ended controversially at Backlash thanks to El Grande Americano’s illegal intervention. The masked luchador – long suspected to be Chad Gable – blasted Penta with a loaded headbutt during a referee distraction, enabling Mysterio to secure the pin after a Frog Splash.

The interference continues Americano’s rivalry with the Lucha Brothers faction, having previously defeated Rey Fenix at WrestleMania 41. His signature tactic of concealing metal plates in his mask added extra impact to the decisive blow. Penta fought valiantly against stacked odds, including ringside presence from Judgment Day members Carlito, JD McDonagh and Finn Balor, before Americano’s timely interference.

This victory solidifies Mysterio’s championship reign while furthering tensions between Americano and Penta’s faction. The questionable finish suggests future clashes between the luchadores, with Gable’s potential involvement remaining an ongoing mystery. WWE continues weaving these interconnected rivalries through the mid-card division as Backlash sets up summer storylines.