With WWE SummerSlam just weeks away, the event’s lineup is already evolving. The highly anticipated first-ever two-night SummerSlam, scheduled for August 2nd and 3rd, has undergone notable changes that are stirring reactions among fans. Key alterations involve the Women’s Intercontinental Championship match, which no longer features the originally planned competitor.
Initially, Becky Lynch was set to face Bayley for the title, but that matchup has been canceled. Instead, an announcement during a recent episode of RAW revealed that Lyra Valkyria will challenge her Irish rival once more in a rematch from Backlash, shifting the card in an unexpected way.
Bayley’s Continued Absence Raises Concerns Among Fans
This revision has caused disappointment within the WWE Universe, as many are unhappy that Bayley will miss SummerSlam after already being absent from WrestleMania to accommodate Becky Lynch’s return. Bayley’s exclusion from such a major event has led to widespread frustration given her history with WWE and loyal fanbase.
Bayley has often felt overlooked, despite being a prominent figure. She was the only member of the Four Horsewomen not called up to WWE’s main roster in July 2015. Instead, she spent a significant period elevating the NXT brand and has earned championship titles independently.
Understanding Bayley’s Position and Career Challenges
Bayley has faced multiple injuries during critical phases of her career, yet has consistently shown dedication to her fans. Her absence from SummerSlam is particularly notable considering her last singles match on a premium live event was nearly a year ago at SummerSlam 2023, where she faced defeat against Nia Jax.
In fact, Bayley’s last individual victory happened at Clash at the Castle in June 2024, highlighting a concerning gap in her recent event appearances. This further fuels the belief among fans that WWE continues to neglect one of its veteran female stars.
Implications of These Changes Moving Forward
The adjustments to the SummerSlam 2024 card raise questions about WWE’s direction with its female competitors, especially how Bayley is positioned amid rising talent like Lyra Valkyria. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see whether Bayley’s exclusion indicates a longer-term sidelining or if opportunities will reopen for her in future events.
As SummerSlam approaches, the impact of these last-minute switches may influence fan engagement and set the tone for WWE’s storytelling in the months ahead, making this one of the more significant moments to watch in the year’s wrestling calendar.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is WrestleMania or SummerSlam bigger?
A. SummerSlam is a yearly wrestling show started in 1988 by WWE, the largest wrestling company. It’s often called “The Biggest Party of the Summer.” After WrestleMania, SummerSlam is seen as WWE’s second most important event.
