With SummerSlam 2023 just over a week away, enthusiasm among fans and insiders alike is notably muted despite the event’s status as one of WWE’s biggest spectacles. While storylines have been brewing for months, they have progressed hastily and lack the compelling emotional weight typical of major WWE events. The card leans heavily on match stipulations, which have recently become a predictable booking device rather than a means to raise drama. Even Roman Reigns’ much-anticipated return, normally a highlight, fails to ignite the usual buzz. These factors together raise questions about whether SummerSlam 2023 will deliver the excitement expected or fall flat.
Evaluating the Confirmed Matches
The clash between Cody Rhodes and John Cena feels underwhelming despite public speculation that Rhodes might pivot into a villainous role, spurred by The Rock’s endorsement of a heel turn. The match lacks the intensity and buildup seen in their previous WrestleMania encounter, making it difficult to treat this bout as a marquee moment. Cena’s ongoing heel persona has garnered interest, and many hope he will emerge victorious, but the Street Fight stipulation hints at a chaotic finish, potentially allowing Randy Orton to intervene unexpectedly. The anticipation level for this match remains moderate.
Gunther vs. CM Punk holds the promise of an exceptional wrestling contest, yet its significance is diminished by peripheral drama involving Seth Rollins. After Rollins feigned cashing in his Money in the Bank contract to distract Punk at Night of Champions, he has since declared his intent to prevent Punk from ever winning a world title. Questions about Rollins’ reported knee injury cloud the match’s focus, shifting attention away from the in-ring action. Fans might witness a technical showcase, but the absence of Rollins and a clean finish could leave the match feeling inconsequential, with low to moderate interest overall.
The Women’s World Title triple threat between Jade Cargill, Tiffany Stratton, and Queen Naomi also struggles to capture enthusiasm. Naomi’s recent Money in the Bank cash-in against Iyo Sky removed a key rival for Cargill, lessening narrative tension. Despite Cargill’s Queen of the Ring victory, she has not been booked as a credible threat to the title recently. Stratton’s credentials rest on a single high-profile promo and win over Charlotte Flair, making this a match with potential but lacking strong storytelling, resulting in low interest.
Triple threat matches tend to dilute stakes and drama, and this holds true in a women’s match featuring popular competitors but no clear storyline momentum. Expect the usual formula of high-impact maneuvers, risky spots involving multiple athletes, and a finish reliant on one competitor’s questionable timing in recovering for a pinfall. Despite the talent involved, the level of excitement is low.
The No-Disqualification match between Lyra Valkyria and Becky Lynch presents a clash of contrasting personas: the relentlessly upbeat Valkyria against the hardened Lynch. Known for delivering solid performances together, these two are expected to produce another quality match. However, the anticipated interference by Bayley adds an unpredictable element, potentially complicating the bout and slightly reducing its purity as a contest. Interest is medium.
Raquel Rodriguez’s recent resurgence, highlighted by her impressive showing on Raw and chemistry with villainous Roxanne Perez, sets up a highly anticipated match involving Charlotte Flair, whose career revival has been fueled by renewed fan support and a partnership with Alexa Bliss. Flair’s return to form after earlier struggles adds emotional weight, making this match one of the most intriguing and competitive on the card. Interest here is high.
The steel cage match featuring members of the Samoan Dynasty should be a classic encounter full of physicality and family pride. While this match has the potential to capture attention, it risks being overshadowed by the numerous gimmick-heavy bouts on the card. The possible appearance of Tama Tonga adds a surprise element. Overall interest is very high due to the fighters involved.
The AJ Styles versus Dominik Mysterio match promises a blend of comedy, technical wrestling, and high-flying maneuvers. Known for their engaging chemistry, both men are expected to perform at the top of their game, making this bout a standout on the two-day event. The only hesitation comes from not wanting to see either competitor suffer defeat, intensifying the stakes. This match rates as very highly anticipated.
There is one confirmed match that fails to garner excitement, perceived as uninspired and lacking meaningful buildup, resulting in low interest.
Anticipated but Unconfirmed Contests
A much-awaited match involving high-risk moves and chaotic sequences is expected to inject significant energy into SummerSlam 2023. The contest is being compared to the Home Run Derby in Major League Baseball for its guaranteed spectacle. However, the elephant in the room is Roman Reigns’ future in singles competition, as he has wrestled only twice in 19 months. This scarcity raises speculation about internal issues within WWE regarding the Tribal Chief’s in-ring presence. Despite this, the match is expected to be a highlight and could rival the Styles-Mysterio bout as Match of the Weekend. Interest is strong but tempered by uncertainty.
The Lingering Sense of Unease Surrounding SummerSlam
As the event approaches, the prevailing mood around SummerSlam 2023 is one of cautious skepticism. While it offers an alternative to weekend routine, the card’s reliance on stipulations, rushed angles, and lack of compelling storylines has left many fans underwhelmed. Yet, history shows that some of the least promising cards can surprise and deliver unexpectedly thrilling moments. Whether SummerSlam will defy these doubts or succumb to the “SummerSlam blues” remains to be seen. Fans are invited to share their opinions and predictions as WWE prepares for its biggest summer event.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is WrestleMania or SummerSlam bigger?
A. SummerSlam is a yearly professional wrestling show started in 1988 by WWE, the largest wrestling promotion in the world. It’s known as “The Biggest Party of the Summer” and is seen as WWE’s second biggest event after WrestleMania.
Q. Is SummerSlam 2025 2 nights?
A. Los Angeles, CA – July 21, 2025 – WWE, a top name in sports entertainment, and Fandango, a popular online movie ticket service, shared exciting news today. For the first time, SummerSlam will last two nights and be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Fans can watch it live at certain Regal Cinemas across the U.S. on Saturday, August …
Q. Is SummerSlam 2 nights in 2025?
A. WWE Champion John Cena faces Cody Rhodes again after their WrestleMania match.
MetLife Stadium, located in New Jersey, will hold the first SummerSlam occurring over two nights on Saturday, August 2, and Sunday, August 3, 2025.
Q. Will John Cena be at SummerSlam 2025?
A. This will be the third SummerSlam event in East Rutherford, following the ones in 1997 and 2007. It will mark John Cena’s final SummerSlam match as he plans to retire from wrestling by late 2025.
