WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event 40, held recently, marked a turning point due to several major happenings, including the unexpected injury to Seth Rollins. This injury threatens to alter the course of his WWE future and the status of his Money in the Bank briefcase, impacting the promotion’s plans ahead of the SummerSlam 2025 event.
The event featured significant outcomes such as Goldberg’s loss in his retirement match against Gunther, the surprise return of Jacob Fatu, the announcement of a major tag team match for SummerSlam, and the addition of Bianca Belair to the Evolution 2 lineup.
Seth Rollins’ Injury and Its Immediate Consequences
The Visionary faced LA Knight in a competitive singles match during the NBC special, delivering a back-and-forth contest that ended abruptly when Rollins suffered a knee injury. The incident occurred during a springboard moonsault, where he landed awkwardly on his right knee, prompting the medical team to intervene immediately.
Taking advantage of the situation, LA Knight executed his BFT finisher and secured the victory over Rollins. Confirmed reports indicate that Rollins’ injury is genuine, though WWE has yet to disclose how severe it is. Rollins’ potential absence could lead to WWE stripping him of the Money in the Bank briefcase, with Bron Breakker or Bronson Reed possibly stepping in as replacements, echoing the precedent set when Roxanne Perez replaced Liv Morgan as Women’s Tag Team Champion.
Implications for WWE’s Championship Landscape
The event crowned Gunther as the dominant World Heavyweight Champion after he forced Goldberg to submit, cementing his status as the top contender ahead of WWE’s first-ever two-night SummerSlam. LA Knight’s win over the former World Champion and Money in the Bank holder strengthens his claim as a serious title contender.
Given Knight’s momentum, a challenge towards Gunther for the World Heavyweight Championship at SummerSlam seems plausible. Both wrestlers enter the SummerSlam card off impressive victories, setting the stage for a potentially high-stakes showdown.
Potential Changes to SummerSlam Main Event Plans
Roman Reigns has been widely anticipated to return and compete at SummerSlam 2025, originally expected to face Seth Rollins. However, Rollins’ knee injury may force WWE to revise those plans. Instead, Reigns might square off against Bron Breakker, who previously attacked him on RAW after WrestleMania, creating a fresh rivalry for the event.
The injury clearly leaves a void, removing a marquee talent who was integral to SummerSlam’s promotional efforts. WWE’s leadership, including Nick Khan and Triple H, might seek out major names like The Rock to enhance the card’s appeal and maintain fan interest in their two-night premium live event.
Developments in the Women’s Division and Other Storylines
Bianca Belair returned at SNME 40 and was announced as the special guest referee for the Jade Cargill versus Bianca Belair match at Evolution 2025. There is speculation that Belair may turn heel by aiding Naomi—Ms. Money in the Bank—helping her secure a win over the “Queen of the Ring,” Jade Cargill.
Naomi might also capitalize on this by cashing in her Money in the Bank contract during the Trish Stratus versus Tiffany Stratton title match, potentially leading to a new WWE Women’s Champion. This shift would intensify the competition in the women’s division heading into the SummerSlam and beyond.
The Road Ahead for WWE Following Rollins’ Injury
Seth Rollins’ injury introduces significant challenges for WWE as it prepares for its biggest events of 2025. The uncertain recovery timeline for Rollins casts doubt over his immediate return, forcing WWE to rethink key storylines and title scenarios. The possible reassignment of the MITB briefcase could shift power dynamics within the roster.
Meanwhile, the championship scene is poised for fresh rivalries, with Gunther and LA Knight both positioned strongly, while Roman Reigns’ anticipated return may set off new high-profile matches. The women’s division also faces potential changes in character alignments and titleholders that could redefine its narrative.
As WWE navigates these developments, the company’s ability to adapt could determine fan engagement and the overall impact of SummerSlam 2025, shaping the promotion’s trajectory for the remainder of the year.
