You said you checked all that stuff....describe how you checked each item.

used a compression gauge from autozone, measured the valve from the top too. new plugs, maf sensor cleaned. no burnt smell or fishy. ECU is dry and responding when plugged on. I got that spark plug node test u use to replace the plugs and it'll show you sparks. engine turns nicely, no rattles no knocks. but when you put the plugs back and try again, it seems like its backfiring. and no start still. bypassed the maf sensor and surely its not the clutch safety switch because the engine cranks. cam sensor and coolant sensors were checked today by the mech and he said its fine. dunno what I'm missing. can it be a timing issue? checked the timing belt and crank timing though it all matches.

Is it backfiring through the intake or the exhaust? I would double check that you have the firing order correct.

4-1-2-3 jharsman makes a good point. We can miss little things like that, i know i have.

If that isnt it then my money is on the maf. Does it smell flooded after cranking it over?

yes, gas smell. same timing order I did. I wanna look at the maf sensor too and throttle positioning sensor. I'm running out of options. just finished all my sensor checks and its all good. the funny thing though that's throwing me off is the car not showing any error codes at all. didn't know sucking up water would cause this much damage on a 4g. kinda sad.. my maf sensor was bypassed. could that be the cause? -4g down