Over the years, WWE has created some incredible memories that are hard to forget, and many of these special moments happened during the SummerSlam event. From shocking comebacks and lopsided victories to cashing in Money in the Bank and epic battles, I’m sure you have at least one SummerSlam moment that stands out as a personal favorite among all-time greats. With SummerSlam now expanding into a two-day extravaganza, we might witness even more unforgettable moments. However, let’s take a brief trip down memory lane and revisit 7 of the most memorable SummerSlam events to date.
7. An Unexpected Trio
Kicking off this review, let me take you back to the dawn of a fresh chapter – the SummerSlam 2022 extravaganza, the first under Triple H’s reign. The night was filled with surprises that kept us on our toes, one such being Bayley’s electrifying comeback from injury, met with thunderous cheers from the SummerSlam audience. However, she didn’t show up solo; she had a couple of other heavyweights by her side, namely Becky Lynch and Bianca Belair.
After Bayley made her comeback, an exciting twist unfolded that I hadn’t foreseen: not only did Iyo Sky get promoted from NXT, but Dakota Kai also re-joined WWE, and both teamed up with Bayley to form a new group called Damage CTRL. As someone who witnessed this live, it was a memorable moment, hinting that WWE was ready to showcase some of its NXT stars in significant roles and welcome back fan favorites. Admittedly, I believe Damage CTRL didn’t reach its full potential, but the excitement of that moment remains one of my favorites.
6. TLC Mayhem Truly Begins (SummerSlam 2000)
As a seasoned moviegoer and wrestling enthusiast, I find myself reminiscing about pivotal moments that have left an indelible mark on the world of sports entertainment. One such moment, which often gets overlooked amidst the glitz and glamour of today’s matches, is the TLC tag team spectacular that took place at SummerSlam in 2000. This game-changing event was the birthplace of a trend that has since captivated audiences worldwide, and it all unfolded with an electric intensity that could only be delivered by wrestling legends like The Hardy Boys, The Dudley Boyz, and Edge and Christian. From the moment they stepped into the ring, these titans of the squared circle demonstrated why they are rightfully considered the masters of TLC. It was a spectacle not to be missed, and it serves as a testament to the enduring allure of tag team competition in the world of WWE.
The contest was an all-out melee from the get-go, with individuals and chairs whizzing around in every direction within the first couple of minutes alone. The pandemonium only intensified when ladders entered the fray, leading to some gruesome yet imaginative moments. A highlight was a see-saw ladder maneuver. Matters escalated further when tables came into play, and remarkably, both teams outdid themselves in a subsequent event at WrestleMania X-7. Despite this sequel’s impressive showing, this original match is equally captivating and worth watching as well.
The initial contest was wildly chaotic, with people and chairs flying everywhere in the first 2 minutes alone. Ladders were introduced, leading to inventive yet brutal spots, such as a see-saw ladder launch. Tables were also involved, and both teams upped their game for a follow-up event at WrestleMania X-7. Despite the impressive sequel, this original match is still entertaining and worth watching.
5. A True Classic (SummerSlam 1991)
Amongst the films listed here, only two complete matches have found their way, a deliberate decision on my part. However, these two encounters were not just optional inclusions; they were essential. The first of these unforgettable duels was a masterclass in classic wrestling, featuring two legends – Bret Hart and Mr. Perfect.
As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the epic showdown between these titans of wrestling at the 1991 SummerSlam. They didn’t just perform; they redefined what a match could be. If you’re eager to witness two colossal figures of the ring demonstrate the essence of synergy, then this is your golden ticket!
Each move, each tackle, and each powerful slam resonated with an undeniable weight and intent. Just when you thought one had seized control, a stunning, seemingly out-of-nowhere counter would shatter every expectation you held. These two delivered a timeless classic that deserves every ounce of acclaim it receives.
4. RK-Cash-In (SummerSlam 2013)
In an exciting turn of events, Naomi seized her opportunity to cash in the Money in the Bank contract, making her the new WWE Women’s World Champion. This triumph came following an intense battle between Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky, reminiscent of when Randy Orton cashed in his Money in the Bank contract after a legendary match between Daniel Bryan and John Cena back in 2013.
In this contest, Cena selected Bryan as his adversary, and the intrigue lay in Triple H officiating the bout, which decided the WWE Championship. The duo delivered an exceptional match with multiple close calls, but it was ultimately Bryan who emerged victorious, claiming the title for a brief period.
Following Bryan’s triumphant title victory, he rejoiced; however, Orton, carrying his briefcase, made his way to the ring. A glance from Orton prompted Triple H to deliver a Pedigree to Bryan, and Orton cashed in his briefcase. Triple H grinned as the bell was rung, signifying Bryan’s defeat, marking the end of his reign as Champion and the beginning of the Evolution dynasty. This moment was already exhilarating, but when you consider the immense power that Evolution would wield (and the careers it fostered), it takes on even greater significance in history.
3. The Beginnings of The Man (SummerSlam 2018)
At SummerSlam events, significant changes often occur, such as when Becky Lynch dramatically turned against Charlotte Flair in one of their most memorable moments. By this time, fans were strongly supporting Lynch, but she struggled to grab the limelight, particularly compared to Flair. During SummerSlam 2018, they faced off against Carmella in a Triple Threat match for the SmackDown Women’s Championship. Despite Lynch being on the brink of victory, it was Flair who ultimately claimed the title.
At first, Lynch warmly embraced her friend and offered congratulations, but this action was met with boos from the audience since some fans were still rooting for Becky at that moment. Following the hug with Flair, however, Lynch grew tired of playing the peacemaker and retaliated against Flair, launching a brutal attack. This sparked chaos in the crowd. With the Title raised high, the audience echoed chants of “Becky” throughout the arena, indicating their approval of her actions. This decisive moment marked Lynch’s transformation into a villain, which was eagerly anticipated by fans and signified the birth of Becky’s The Man persona in WWE, a character that would go on to make significant strides within the company.
2. A Tribal Introduction (SummerSlam 2020)
It’s striking to consider a period when Roman Reigns wasn’t the Tribal Chief, and the shift towards that phase became apparent when Reigns moved past the Big Dog era and demonstrated early signs of the charismatic leader we recognize today within the Bloodline. Following a hiatus from WWE since March 2020 due to health issues linked to COVID-19, Reigns made a triumphant comeback at SummerSlam.
The competition was between The Fiend (Bray Wyatt) and Braun Strowman for the Universal Title, and it ended with The Fiend defeating Strowman to claim the championship. Suddenly, Roman Reigns appeared and delivered a spear to Wyatt, donning his iconic Wreck Everyone and Leave attire, signaling a noticeable change in character compared to the last time fans saw him. He spared Strowman and followed up with another spear to Wyatt, causing destruction, and it wasn’t until the following week that we discovered he was partnering with Paul Heyman, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career phase and one of the most significant moments in SummerSlam lore.
1. Return of a Legend (SummerSlam 2002)
Among the greatest legends in the annals of both WWE and professional wrestling as a whole, Shawn Michaels stands out. It was disheartening for many fans when he announced his retirement in 1998. However, four years later in 2002, Michaels made an impressive comeback, leading to a bitter rivalry with his former close friend, Triple H. The tension culminated in a car window being smashed over Michaels’ head. At SummerSlam, he sought revenge not in an ordinary match but…
At an unofficial event, Michael faced Triple H in a grueling 28-minute match. Although it had been four years since he last wrestled on such a stage, Michael’s skills had only improved over time. Michael endured some intense moves, but he gave as good as he got. Known as HBK, Michael used chairs and trash cans to pummel Triple H, leaving him in disarray before finishing him off with the sweet chin music. This marked another remarkable comeback for the Heartbreak Kid.
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2025-08-03 02:42