Introduction to WWE SummerSlam 2022
WWE SummerSlam, one of the most highly anticipated pay-per-view events of the year, saw a mixture of familiar faces rekindling old feuds and new talents making a mark. This article delves into a detailed analysis of the event, from the opening match to the main event, highlighting the key moments and outcomes.
Opener: US Champion Seth Rollins vs MITB Winner Matt Riddle
The event began with an intense and technical match between US Champion Seth Rollins and MITB (Money in the Bank) winner Matt Riddle. The match showcased Rollins' agility and Riddle's power, resulting in a back-and-forth battle. At the 15-minute mark, Rollins aimed for the Frog Splash, but Riddle countered with an RKO (Rolling Thunder Kick) mid-air. Riddle then attempted to lock in the Floating Bro, but Rollins managed to get out of it with a close 2-count. Despite Riddle's efforts, Rollins ultimately prevailed, aided by a timely RKO from Randy Orton, winning the match.
2: Street Profits vs Usos vs Alpha Academy vs New Day
The second match of the night saw a tag team battle with both Street Profits and Usos on one side and Alpha Academy and New Day on the other. Usos emerged victorious, winning the RAW and SMACKDOWN Tag Titles. This match was filled with high-energy action, as each team tried to outwit and outplay the others.
3: WWE Raw Woman’s Champion Bianca Belair vs Liv Morgan
In a relatively straightforward match, Liv Morgan successfully hit her finisher to claim the WWE Raw Woman's Championship from Bianca Belair. The match did not drag on, but Morgan's technique and finishing move provided the fans with a satisfying victory.
4: IC Champion Ricochet vs Kevin Owens
The fourth match of the night was a high-flying contest between IC (Intercontinental) Champion Ricochet and Kevin Owens. Owens emerged the winner, using a thunderous Stunner to defeat Ricochet and regain the IC title. The match was marked by several technical maneuvers, with both wrestlers showcasing their abilities in the ring.
Aftermath and Future Storylines
Post-match, Owens and Rollins celebrated their victory, only to later run into each other as allies-turned-enemies due to their future world title match. This storyline sets up for a potential feud and intriguing battle in the coming months.
5: Cody Rhodes vs AJ Styles vs Edge
The fifth match was a chaotic and destructive match between Cody Rhodes, AJ Styles, and Edge. The match saw the use of various weapons such as chairs, tables, and steel steps, making for a physical and brutal contest. Edge brought down Styles with a spear, but Cody broke it up, leading to a clash between the two. In the end, AJ Styles used his Phenomenal Forearms to secure a 2-count before delivering another one to Edge. Rhodes took advantage of the distraction and sent Styles through the ropes, nailing Edge for the 3-count to win the match. This victory sets Cody Rhodes up for a future world title opportunity and sets up a potential feud with AJ Styles.
Main Event: World Champion Roman Reigns vs Drew McIntyre
The main event of SummerSlam 2022 was a battle between the World Champion Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre. Reigns attempted to cheat throughout the match but was unable to succeed. McIntyre managed to dodge a Claymore Kick from Reigns and delivered a Superman Punch. In the closing moments, McIntyre hit Reigns with a Claymore for the 3-count, ending Reigns' near-two-year reign as the World Champion and establishing McIntyre as the new World Champion.
The event concluded with McIntyre celebrating his victory, setting the stage for a new era in WWE.
Conclusion
WWE SummerSlam 2022 was filled with memorable moments, technical skill, and an abundance of action. The matches showcased a range of styles, from technical to physical, and set the stage for future storylines and potential feuds. Rollins' victory, Owens' return to the IC title, Belair's disappointing loss, and the physicality of the Edge vs. Cody and Styles vs. Rhodes matches all contributed to making SummerSlam one of the most talked-about events of the year. As the dust settles, fans eagerly await to see how these storylines and champions evolve in the coming months.