As SummerSlam approaches, fans reflect on the event’s most memorable moments. Among the standout matches are those ranked from 40 to 31, showcasing a mix of legendary athletes and intense rivalries that have defined the event over the years.
40 to 36: Iconic Clashes
In 2008, the clash between Batista and John Cena marked a significant moment in wrestling history. Despite not headlining the event, the match delivered an electrifying atmosphere. Lasting just over 14 minutes, it featured powerful exchanges between two of WWE’s biggest stars. Cena’s injury during a Batista Bomb added a layer of drama, culminating in Batista securing a pivotal victory.
The following year, a thrilling WWF Hardcore Championship Ladder Match saw Jeff Hardy defend against Rob Van Dam. This encounter, filled with breathtaking stunts, ran for 16 minutes and 33 seconds. Hardy’s signature ladder maneuvers combined with RVD’s athleticism created a captivating spectacle, despite its somewhat overlooked status in the history of SummerSlam ladder matches.
2014 brought forth a highly anticipated showdown for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. In a striking display, Brock Lesnar dominated John Cena, who took an astonishing 16 German suplexes in just over 17 minutes. The match’s outcome was all but predictable, yet the sheer intensity of Lesnar’s performance left a lasting impression on fans.
The following year, Cena faced CM Punk in a rematch that followed the memorable Money in the Bank encounter. With Triple H as the guest referee, the match unfolded with a slow build, ultimately leading to a controversial finish that saw Punk score a tainted victory.
In 1992, Randy Savage faced The Ultimate Warrior in a match surrounded by intrigue due to Mr. Perfect’s involvement. The atmosphere at Wembley was palpable, with fans anticipating a major turning point, although the match concluded with a countout after 28 minutes, leaving some spectators wanting more.
35 to 31: Heartfelt Rivalries
A poignant storyline unfolded in 2005 with the Custody of Dominik Ladder Match between Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio. This emotional bout, which lasted 20 minutes and 18 seconds, saw Rey triumphantly capture the briefcase, marking a significant moment in both men’s careers and their connection to Dominik, who would later make his own wrestling debut.
In 2015, Cena’s open challenge concept culminated in a thrilling double title match against Seth Rollins. The 19-minute contest showcased intense back-and-forth action, but interference from talk show host John Stewart marred the finish. Despite this, Rollins emerged as the champion, adding his name to the illustrious list of SummerSlam victors.
Another memorable match occurred in 2004 when Guerrero faced Kurt Angle. After a series of high-stakes exchanges, including Guerrero’s signature maneuvers, the match concluded with Angle forcing Guerrero to tap out in just over 13 minutes. While it didn’t quite reach the heights of their previous WrestleMania encounter, it demonstrated the exceptional storytelling both wrestlers brought to the ring.
The 2019 showdown between Charlotte Flair and Trish Stratus in Toronto was a highlight of this ranking. Stratus, in her hometown, faced the overconfident Flair in an emotional match that lasted 16 minutes and 38 seconds. The crowd’s energy elevated the contest, showcasing Stratus’s impressive return to the ring and concluding her career on a high note.
Lastly, the 2017 match for the WWE Raw Tag Team Championship saw Cesaro and Sheamus defend their titles against Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins. Lasting 18 minutes and 34 seconds, the match was filled with high-energy exchanges and culminated in Ambrose and Rollins capturing the titles, evoking nostalgia for their time as part of the Shield.
These matches, ranked from 40 to 31, reflect the rich history and emotional depth of SummerSlam, highlighting why this event remains a cornerstone of professional wrestling. As fans gear up for this year’s SummerSlam, the anticipation for new moments only adds to the legacy of these unforgettable encounters.
