5 Greatest SummerSlam matches of all time
WWE's biggest carnival of the summer is on the horizon. The SummerSlam Premium Live Event will emanate from Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio, this year. It is one of the most iconic premium live events that is known for its grandiose and unparalleled legacy, which is etched in WWE's history.
Over the years, The Biggest Party of The Summer has seen some of the most incredible matches that have transcended the heights of pro wrestling, leaving an indelible mark on the Stamford-based promotion. With SummerSlam 2024 on the horizon, let's turn the clock back and revisit history.
Let's look at the five greatest SummerSlam matches of all time.
#5. CM Punk vs. John Cena (SummerSlam 2011)
CM Punk vs. John Cena is a feud that will forever remain iconic in WWE. They battled each other in a marquee match at SummerSlam in 2011. What added to the grandeur was that Triple H was the Special Guest Referee in this highly anticipated showdown.
Neither of the two superstars showed any mercy to each other, as they used every move and maneuver against each other. However, the match ended dramatically when CM Punk performed the GTS and pinned Cena, despite the latter's leg being under the bottom rope.
Although it did witness a controversial finish, it is hailed as one of the greatest SummerSlam matches in WWE's history.
#4. John Cena vs. AJ Styles (SummerSlam 2016)
One of the best matches that took place at SummerSlam was John Cena vs. AJ Styles in 2016 at Barclays Center. The WWE Universe witnessed the two veterans share the ring in what was a monumental moment. Their incredible in-ring chemistry and wrestling styles added flavor to this match.
During the match, Styles survived two Attitude Adjustments from The Cenation Leader and went on to secure a huge win over the legendary superstar. The classic action between the two veterans is what made this match one of the greatest bouts of all time in SummerSlam's history.
Moreover, the iconic showdown between AJ Styles and John Cena received unfathomable cheers and support from the WWE Universe.
#3. Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena (SummerSlam 2014)
When it comes to the greatest SummerSlam matches of all time, John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar has earned its place on the elite list. The iconic showdown between both superstars for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at summer's biggest extravaganza in 2014 was nothing short of chaos and pandemonium.
The Beast Incarnate unleashed his malevolent side in the match when he wreaked havoc on the 16-time World Champion. It was absolute carnage from Lesnar, as the latter hit a series of Suplexes on Cena before eventually getting a huge victory over him and capturing the gold.
This was the match where the world witnessed the genesis of Brock Lesnar's Suplex City at Staples Center in Los Angeles. Needless to say, this match is hailed as one of the greatest matches of all time in the history of SummerSlam.
#2. Triple H vs. Shawn Michaels (SummerSlam 2002)
One of the most monumental matches at The Biggest Party of The Summer came at SummerSlam 2002 when Triple H locked horns with his best friend, Shawn Michaels, after turning his back on the latter. What raised the stakes of this highly anticipated showdown was that it was an unsanctioned match.
Throughout the spectacle, The Game relentlessly attacked The Heartbreak Kid, targeting his injured back. However, in a shocking turn of events, Michaels countered a Pedigree and managed to vanquish The King of Kings. The match ended with Triple H venting out his frustrations and attacking Shawn with a Sledgehammer.
Regardless of what unfolded, this is hailed as one of the vintage matches due to both legends gracing SummerSlam with their iconic rivalry.
#1. Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns (SummerSlam 2022)
Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar is a feud that has seen a series of matches in WWE. However, both superstars delivered one of the greatest matches in SummerSlam's history when they battled each other in a Last Man Standing Match in 2022. It was for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.
The match witnessed a maelstrom of chaos, action, drama and pandemonium. While Lesnar tried his best shot to dethrone The Tribal Chief after unleashing havoc, The Bloodline dominated the numbers game. It eventually led to Roman Reigns vanquishing The Beast Incarnate and standing tall over Brock's carcass.
It was a blockbuster encounter between the two juggernauts, which added a new chapter to their iconic rivalry in WWE. Hence, it is hailed as one of the greatest matches in SummerSlam's history.
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