Two legendary WWE tag teams reunited at SummerSlam as they prepared for their final encounter in a highly anticipated showdown. The Hardys and The Dudley Boyz appeared in what marked a significant moment ahead of their concluding match, intensifying excitement for the SummerSlam WWE tag team showdown.
The Hardys recently recaptured the TNA World Tag Team Championship at Slammiversary in a dramatic Ladder Match, rekindling memories from their storied careers. Following their victory, Bubba Ray Dudley, also known as Bully Ray, approached them to extend a challenge for a last contest at Bound For Glory, despite significant personal hardships for Dudley’s partner, D-Von Dudley.
Honoring Two Decades Since the Inaugural TLC Match
SummerSlam also served as a tribute to the 25th anniversary of the original Tables, Ladders, and Chairs (TLC) match, which debuted at SummerSlam 2000. This historic match involved The Hardys, The Dudley Boyz, and Edge and Christian, with the latter securing the win. Although Edge and Christian, now part of AEW, did not take part in recent WWE celebrations, they were referenced by commentator Michael Cole under their WWE identities.
The event further captivated audiences with Brock Lesnar’s surprise return to WWE after a two-year hiatus, as he targeted John Cena following the latter’s loss of the WWE Title to Cody Rhodes.

Upcoming Matches and Additional WWE Developments
Alongside the SummerSlam buildup, other WWE storylines are drawing attention. Alexa Bliss is reportedly preparing to take Charlotte Flair’s character in a new, darker direction, while Karrion Kross has expressed concerns regarding creative restrictions in a recent interview.
Bad Bunny has reflected on his WWE match history and asserted his role as a notable celebrity wrestler. Brock Lesnar’s unexpected return was also the subject of behind-the-scenes discussions that revealed the circumstances behind his comeback.
The match order for WWE SummerSlam 2025 has been announced, with Roman Reigns and Jey Uso slated for the opening tag team bout. Meanwhile, a former four-time WWE Champion has officially become a free agent following his release in May 2025, and LA Knight has suggested he might leave WWE unless certain conditions are met.
Becky Lynch continues to hold the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, maintaining her reign since winning the title at Money in the Bank 56 days ago.
The Significance of This Summer and Future Prospects
The upcoming final battle between The Hardys and The Dudley Boyz not only highlights the enduring legacy of these two teams but also celebrates a quarter century of WWE’s TLC match innovation. This SummerSlam WWE tag team showdown encapsulates the rich history and emotional weight shared by these athletes, promising a memorable spectacle for fans.
As WWE develops new story arcs and sees the return of prominent figures like Brock Lesnar, the landscape remains dynamic. The storylines surrounding Alexa Bliss, Karrion Kross, and other key performers indicate ongoing changes that will shape WWE’s direction moving forward.
