WWE’s SummerSlam is one of their most significant events, ranking among their “Big 4” alongside Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, and Survivor Series. Though the newest among them, it stands as the second biggest event after WrestleMania, featuring memorable moments like title changes, intense matches, and notable WWE returns that have captured fans’ and critics’ attention over the years.
SummerSlam 2005 featured a dream main event with Hulk Hogan versus Shawn Michaels, notable for Michaels’ contentious performance. Other highlights included John Cena defeating Chris Jericho, Batista besting JBL, Randy Orton overcoming The Undertaker, and the emotional “Dominik’s Custody” ladder match between Rey Mysterio and Eddie Guerrero. Despite mixed reviews, the event left a lasting impression.
In 1994, SummerSlam marked The Undertaker’s return and memorable bouts including Alundra Blayze defending the WWE Women’s Championship and Bret Hart’s classic steel cage match against Owen Hart. The event culminated with a dramatic Doppelganger match where The Undertaker prevailed.
SummerSlam 2020 was held without a live audience due to the pandemic but still made headlines with Dominic Mysterio’s debut and Roman Reigns turning heel. The event showcased memorable matches like Drew McIntyre versus Randy Orton for the WWE Championship in the unique Thunderdome setting.
At SummerSlam 2024, fans witnessed multiple title changes, surprising character turns such as Rhea Ripley’s alongside Dominik Mysterio, and the return of Roman Reigns capturing a title win. The card also featured strong performances from Gunther, Bron Blakk, and La Knight, though the main event between Cody Rhodes and Solo Sikoa received mixed reactions.
SummerSlam 2003 was notable for being the first in years without a title change but featured intense matches including Kurt Angle vs. Brock Lesnar and a grueling Elimination Chamber main event where Triple H fought through injury to retain the World Heavyweight Championship.
The 2014 edition saw three titles change hands, including Dolph Ziggler’s win of the Intercontinental Championship and Paige’s victory in the Diva Championship. The show also featured strong performances by Seth Rollins, Bray Wyatt, and Brock Lesnar’s dominating world title win over John Cena.
SummerSlam 1998 earned acclaim during the Attitude Era with unforgettable matches such as Triple H defeating The Rock in a ladder match and Stone Cold Steve Austin retaining the WWE Championship against The Undertaker. Edge also made his pay-per-view debut, and DX reclaimed the tag titles.
In 2015, SummerSlam lasted its longest at four hours, featuring Sheamus defeating Randy Orton and The New Day beginning their historic tag title reign. Highlights included Seth Rollins’ dual championship victory and The Undertaker’s revenge win over Brock Lesnar.
SummerSlam 1992 was a major event with the British Bulldog emotionally winning the Intercontinental Championship from Bret Hart. The show featured several notable matches including The Undertaker versus Kamala and ended with memorable tag team and championship contests.
SummerSlam 2022 was the first held in July and packed with surprises including Bianca Belair retaining her Raw Women’s Championship, the formation of the CTRL faction, and Liv Morgan defeating Ronda Rousey. The event closed with Roman Reigns defeating Brock Lesnar in a last man standing match to hold the undisputed Universal Championship.
Fan Take: SummerSlam is the stage where WWE showcases evolution—blending nostalgia with new storylines and champion moments. For fans, each event is a milestone that shapes the future of professional wrestling, setting the tone for the sport’s continued excitement and legacy.
