4 alternate main events for WWE SummerSlam apart from Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa
Cody Rhodes will write the next chapter in his saga with The Bloodline if he faces Solo Sikoa at SummerSlam. The WWE Champion granted Sikoa a one-on-one opportunity for his title on SmackDown, days after The Tribal Chief's pinfall win over Rhodes.
Although the build has been great and the company has enhanced Sikoa's aura, Rhodes vs. Sikoa doesn't scream SummerSlam main event for many fans. The added concern is that this clash is expected to lead to bigger things, presumably a Roman Reigns return, making the match less significant.
The Rhodes-Sikoa saga can be traced back to The American Nightmare's pre-WrestleMania storyline with Roman Reigns. Consequently, it doesn't feel fresh either.
Fortunately, WWE has other alternatives that could easily supersede Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa as the main event of SummerSlam 2024.
#4. Rhea Ripley vs. Liv Morgan (c) in a "Custody of Dominik" Ladder match
The Rhea Ripley-Liv Morgan-Dominik Mysterio love triangle has been a consistent highlight of RAW in the last several weeks. The angle has taken up plenty of screen time and frequently receives the main-event spot.
WWE confirmed Ripley vs. Morgan for the Women's Title, but the company could add an extra stipulation by giving the winner custody of Dominik Mysterio. This would be a great throwback to Rey Mysterio vs. Eddie Guerrero at SummerSlam 2005.
Much drama has already unfolded in the triangle, and the blow-off has the potential to be special. Furthermore, the aforementioned ladder match stipulation would allow side characters like Jey Uso and the rest of The Judgment Day to get involved without disqualification.
#3. Gunther vs. Damian Priest (c) for the World Heavyweight Championship
Damian Priest may have been part of some unfortunate botches lately, and he may lack the aura of top-caliber stars like Roman Reigns, but Priest has proved himself during his World Title run.
El Campeon's mic work has improved drastically, and he has shown tremendous character development in the last few months. Likewise, fans have always admired Gunther's pure wrestling style and sheer aura. The King of The Ring is worthy of becoming a champion.
The Gunther-Priest saga quickly caught fire when both men exchanged some harsh words on RAW this week. The energy was palpable, and the crowd seemed invested. Furthermore, the company made the champion come off as a tweener, adding some intrigue.
Like Morgan vs. Ripley, the scope for external involvement is also unlimited here. The Judgment Day could get involved, as could the returning Ludwig Kaiser. Either way, if booked correctly, Damian Priest vs. Gunther is worthy of the main event spot for SummerSlam.
#2. Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu in a Handicap match
Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa doesn't seem fresh, but anything involving Jacob Fatu at the moment is certain to draw eyes. The Samoan Werewolf has been the X-factor for Sikoa and The Bloodline, and he should be carefully used at SummerSlam.
As shown by his tremendous performance at Money in the Bank, Fatu has unlimited talent and an undeniable aura, with many preferring him over Sikoa. However, The Enforcer of The Bloodline is still new to the main roster, and it's too soon for him to break free from The Tribal Chief.
Instead, WWE could add him to the main event of SummerSlam and make it a Handicap match. He doesn't need to suffer the pinfall loss in defeat, and his involvement will generate much interest and unpredictability.
#1. CM Punk vs. Drew McIntyre is expected for SummerSlam
CM Punk and Drew McIntyre have been feuding since the start of 2024, yet fans haven't lost interest. Excitement for their eventual match increases every time both men cross paths.
Intriguing dynamics are at play in this grudge feud. Neither man can move forward in their respective careers unless they take care of each other. McIntyre cost Punk his WrestleMania dream, and The Second-City Saint embarrassed his foe several times as revenge.
Furthermore, Seth Rollins is also looming in the background, increasing the scope for outside involvement and the possibility of a Triple Threat.
Both men have star power to main event SummerSlam. The fans are genuinely invested in the match, and it also feels fresh. Not to mention, this will be Punk's first televised singles match since 2014.