SummerSlam (2018)
{{Short description|WWE pay-per-view and livestreaming event}}
{{Infobox Wrestling event
|name = SummerSlam
|image = WWE SummerSlam 2018 Poster.jpg
|caption = Promotional poster featuring Brock Lesnar, Alexa Bliss, Ronda Rousey, and Roman Reigns
|tagline =
|promotion = WWE
|date = August 19, 2018
|buyrate = 29,900{{cite web|url=https://members.f4wonline.com/wrestling-observer-newsletter/august-19-2019-observer-newsletter-summerslam-and-g1-finals-reviews|title=August 19, 2019 Observer Newsletter: SummerSlam and G1 Finals reviews, more|author=Observer Staff|work=Wrestling Observer Figure Four Online|date=August 15, 2019|access-date=August 18, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190818070044/https://members.f4wonline.com/wrestling-observer-newsletter/august-19-2019-observer-newsletter-summerslam-and-g1-finals-reviews|archive-date=August 18, 2019|url-status=live}} (excluding WWE Network views)
|venue = Barclays Center
|wwenlast = NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn 4
|wwennext = Hell in a Cell
|event = SummerSlam
|lastevent2 = 2017
|nextevent2 = 2019
}}
The 2018 SummerSlam was a professional wrestling pay-per-view (PPV) and livestreaming event produced by WWE. It was the 31st annual SummerSlam and took place on August 19, 2018, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York for the fourth and final consecutive year, held for wrestlers from the promotions Raw, SmackDown, and 205 Live brand divisions.
Thirteen matches were contested at the event, including three on the Kickoff pre-show. Nine matches, including two on the Kickoff pre-show, were championship matches. In the main event, Roman Reigns defeated Brock Lesnar to win Raw's Universal Championship, ending Lesnar's 504-day reign (although WWE officially recognizes it as 503 days). In the penultimate match, Ronda Rousey defeated Alexa Bliss to win the Raw Women's Championship, becoming the first woman to win a women's championship in both the Ultimate Fighting Championship and WWE. In other prominent matches, The Miz defeated Daniel Bryan, Samoa Joe defeated SmackDown's WWE Champion AJ Styles by disqualification (thus did not win the championship), and in the opening bout, Seth Rollins defeated Dolph Ziggler to regain Raw's Intercontinental Championship. The event was also the first SummerSlam not to feature John Cena since 2003.
Production
=Background=
File:BarclayCenter-2 (48034233762).jpg in Brooklyn, New York.]]
SummerSlam is an annual professional wrestling event produced every August by WWE since 1988. Dubbed "The Biggest Party of the Summer",{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/news/archive/summerslam06shoot|title=Let the Party Begin|first=Louie|last=Dee|work=WWE|access-date=May 12, 2008|date=May 17, 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061116055908/https://www.wwe.com/inside/news/archive/summerslam06shoot|archive-date=November 16, 2006|url-status=live}} it is one of the promotion's original four pay-per-views (PPV), along with WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, and Survivor Series, referred to as the "Big Four".Ian Hamilton. Wrestling's Sinking Ship: What Happens to an Industry Without Competition (p. 160) It has since become considered WWE's second biggest event of the year behind WrestleMania.{{cite web|first=Matty|last=Paddock|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/wwe-mma-wrestling/wwe-summerslam-results-brock-lesnar-jinder-mahal-finn-balor-john-cena-sasha-banks-alexa-bliss-a7904051.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170822131734/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/wwe-mma-wrestling/wwe-summerslam-results-brock-lesnar-jinder-mahal-finn-balor-john-cena-sasha-banks-alexa-bliss-a7904051.html|access-date=August 21, 2017|archive-date=August 22, 2017|url-access=subscription|url-status=live|title=WWE SummerSlam results: Brock Lesnar and Jinder Mahal survive as Finn Balor defeats Bray Wyatt|website=Independent.co.uk|date=August 21, 2017}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-summerslam-2018-matches-card-location-date-start-time-predictions-ppv-rumors/|title=WWE SummerSlam 2018 matches, card, start time, location, 2018 date, PPV rumors|work=CBSSports|first1=Jack|last1=Crosby|first2=Adam|last2=Silverstein|access-date=August 19, 2018|date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180808140559/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-summerslam-2018-matches-card-location-date-start-time-predictions-ppv-rumors/|archive-date=August 8, 2018|url-status=live}} Announced on August 14, 2017, the 2018 event was the 31st SummerSlam and was scheduled to be held on August 19, 2018, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York for the fourth consecutive year. It featured wrestlers from the Raw, SmackDown, and 205 Live brand divisions. The event aired on pay-per-view worldwide and was livestreamed on the WWE Network. Tickets went on sale on February 2 through Ticketmaster.{{cite web|title=SummerSlam Week to return to Brooklyn in 2018|author=WWE.com Staff|date=August 14, 2017|access-date=April 7, 2023|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/article/summerslam-week-to-return-to-barclays-center-in-2018|work=WWE|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170814143401/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/article/summerslam-week-to-return-to-barclays-center-in-2018|archive-date=August 14, 2017|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Get your SummerSlam tickets now|author=WWE.com Staff|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/article/summerslam-2018-tickets|work=WWE|date=February 2, 2018|access-date=July 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202215848/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/article/summerslam-2018-tickets|archive-date=February 2, 2018|url-status=live}}
=Storylines=
The event comprised 13 matches, including three on the Kickoff pre-show, that resulted from scripted storylines. Results were predetermined by WWE's writers on the Raw, SmackDown, and 205 Live brands,{{cite web|title=How Pro Wrestling Works|date=January 13, 2006|url=https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/pro-wrestling.htm|last=Grabianowski|first=Ed|work=HowStuffWorks|publisher=Discovery Communications|access-date=March 5, 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131129050844/https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/pro-wrestling.htm|archive-date=November 29, 2013}}{{cite web|title=Live & Televised Entertainment|url=https://corporate.wwe.com/company/events.jsp|work=WWE|access-date=March 21, 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090218142749/https://corporate.wwe.com/company/events.jsp|archive-date=February 18, 2009}} with storylines produced on WWE's weekly television shows, Monday Night Raw, SmackDown Live,{{cite web|url=https://variety.com/2016/tv/news/wwe-smackdown-live-usa-1201782569/|title=WWE's 'Smackdown' Will Move To Live Broadcast On USA (Exclusive)|last=Steinberg|first=Brian|date=May 25, 2016|website=Variety|access-date=May 25, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160526113045/https://variety.com/2016/tv/news/wwe-smackdown-live-usa-1201782569/|archive-date=May 26, 2016}} and the cruiserweight-exclusive 205 Live.{{cite web|url=https://www.411mania.com/wrestling/triple-h-conference-call-report-discusses-205-live-nxt-takeover-toronto-says-hbk-working-at-the-performance-center-and-more|title=Triple H Conference Call Report: Discusses 205 Live, NXT Takeover: Toronto, Says HBK Working at the Performance Center and More|website=411Mania|first=Larry|last=Csonka|date=November 11, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161112200653/https://411mania.com/wrestling/triple-h-conference-call-report-discusses-205-live-nxt-takeover-toronto-says-hbk-working-at-the-performance-center-and-more/|archive-date=November 12, 2016|url-status=live}}
==Raw==
As Universal Champion Brock Lesnar refused to defend the title at Extreme Rules, Raw General Manager Kurt Angle gave him an ultimatum: defend the title or be stripped of it. On the Raw after Extreme Rules, Lesnar's advocate Paul Heyman agreed that Lesnar would defend the title at SummerSlam. Bobby Lashley, Drew McIntyre, Seth Rollins, Elias, Finn Bálor, and Roman Reigns all wanted an opportunity. In response, Angle scheduled two triple threat matches that night, with the winners facing each other the following week to determine Lesnar's challenger. Reigns won the first triple threat match over Bálor and McIntyre, while Lashley won the second over Elias and Rollins.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=7/16 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report on post-Extreme Rules developments, will Lesnar show up, Ziggler-Seth finish fallout, more|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/07/16/7-16-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-post-extreme-rules-developments-will-lesnar-show-up-ziggler-seth-finish-fallout-more/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=July 16, 2018|access-date=July 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220605122225/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/07/16/7-16-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-post-extreme-rules-developments-will-lesnar-show-up-ziggler-seth-finish-fallout-more/|archive-date=June 5, 2022|url-status=live}} The following week, Reigns defeated Lashley.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=7/23 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report on the historic announcements by Vince, Stephanie, and Triple H, plus more Summerslam developments|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/07/23/7-23-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-the-historic-announcements-by-vince-stephanie-and-triple-h-plus-more-summerslam-developments/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=July 23, 2018|access-date=July 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180724153921/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/07/23/7-23-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-the-historic-announcements-by-vince-stephanie-and-triple-h-plus-more-summerslam-developments/|archive-date=July 24, 2018|url-status=live}} Lesnar and Heyman then faked a break up before ambushing Reigns on the final Raw before SummerSlam.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=8/13 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report on final Summerslam hype, Heyman-Lesnar follow-up, Rousey-Bliss hype, Ziggler-Seth contract signing|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/13/8-13-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-final-summerslam-hype-heyman-lesnar-follow-up-rousey-bliss-hype-ziggler-seth-contract-signing/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 13, 2018|access-date=August 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180815201207/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/13/8-13-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-final-summerslam-hype-heyman-lesnar-follow-up-rousey-bliss-hype-ziggler-seth-contract-signing/|archive-date=August 15, 2018|url-status=live}}
After retaining her title against Nia Jax at Extreme Rules in an Extreme Rules match,{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=7/15 WWE Extreme Rules Results: Keller's PPV results and analysis including Styles vs. Rusev, Carmella vs. Asuka, Braun vs. Owens in a cage, Ziggler vs. Rollins, Lashley vs. Reigns, more|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/07/15/7-15-wwe-extreme-rules-results-kellers-ppv-results-and-analysis-including-styles-vs-rusev-carmella-vs-asuka-braun-vs-owens-in-a-cage-ziggler-vs-rollins-lashley-vs-reigns-more/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=July 15, 2018|access-date=July 15, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181003101326/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/07/15/7-15-wwe-extreme-rules-results-kellers-ppv-results-and-analysis-including-styles-vs-rusev-carmella-vs-asuka-braun-vs-owens-in-a-cage-ziggler-vs-rollins-lashley-vs-reigns-more/|archive-date=October 3, 2018|url-status=live}} Raw Women's Champion Alexa Bliss gloated that she had beaten every woman on the Raw roster. Ronda Rousey, whom she had cost a championship match at Money in the Bank and who had been suspended, came out from the crowd and attacked Bliss and Mickie James. Raw General Manager Kurt Angle extended Rousey's suspension for another week, and also awarded her a title match at SummerSlam, provided that she would not break her suspension again.
At Extreme Rules, Kevin Owens defeated Braun Strowman in a Steel Cage match after Strowman threw Owens from the top of the cage onto the broadcast table. On the July 23 episode of Raw, Owens vowed to take everything away from Strowman. A rematch was scheduled for SummerSlam with a stipulation that if Owens won, even by disqualification or countout, he would win Strowman's Money in the Bank contract.
At Extreme Rules, Dolph Ziggler defeated Seth Rollins 5–4 in sudden death overtime of a 30-minute Iron Man match to retain the Intercontinental Championship, thanks to interference from Ziggler's tag team partner, Drew McIntyre. On the July 23 episode of Raw, a rematch between Ziggler and Rollins for the title was scheduled for SummerSlam with McIntyre in Ziggler's corner. During the contract signing on the August 13 episode, Dean Ambrose returned from injury, confirming he would be in Rollins' corner.
At Extreme Rules, Finn Bálor defeated Baron Corbin. A few weeks later, a rematch between the two was scheduled, with Corbin defeating Bálor.{{cite web|last=Campbell|first=Brian|title=WWE Raw results, recap, grades: Brock Lesnar appears, relationship with Paul Heyman turns|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-brock-lesnar-appears-relationship-with-paul-heyman-turns/|work=CBSSports|date=July 31, 2018|access-date=August 7, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180731093645/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-brock-lesnar-appears-relationship-with-paul-heyman-turns/|archive-date=July 31, 2018|url-status=live}} The following week, another match between the two was scheduled for SummerSlam.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=8/6 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report on Ronda Rousey's live televised debut match, more Summerslam developments|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/06/8-6-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-ronda-rouseys-live-televised-debut-match-more-summerslam-developments/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 6, 2018|access-date=August 7, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190531210825/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/06/8-6-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-ronda-rouseys-live-televised-debut-match-more-summerslam-developments/|archive-date=May 31, 2019|url-status=live}}
On the August 13 episode of Raw, The B-Team (Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel) retained the Raw Tag Team Championship in a triple threat tag team match against Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt and The Revival (Dash Wilder and Scott Dawson) when they pinned Wyatt. Afterwards, The B-Team was scheduled to defend the championship against The Revival on the SummerSlam Kickoff pre-show.
==SmackDown==
On the July 24 episode of SmackDown, SmackDown General Manager Paige was about to reveal AJ Styles's opponent for the WWE Championship at SummerSlam when James Ellsworth tried to claim the contendership. Paige fired him and saw him being kicked out of the building, when Samoa Joe attacked Styles with the "Coquina Clutch" and then signed the contract.{{cite web|last=Barnett|first=Jake|title=7/24 Barnett's WWE Smackdown Live TV Review: WWE Championship match at SummerSlam announcement, Sanity vs. New Day in a tag tournament match, Becky Lynch vs. Carmella for a shot the Smackdown Women's Championship at SummerSlam|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/07/24/7-24-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-wwe-championship-match-at-summerslam-announcement-sanity-vs-new-day-in-a-tag-tournament-match-becky-lynch-vs-carmella-for-a-shot-the-smackdown-women/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=July 24, 2018|access-date=July 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725122806/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/07/24/7-24-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-wwe-championship-match-at-summerslam-announcement-sanity-vs-new-day-in-a-tag-tournament-match-becky-lynch-vs-carmella-for-a-shot-the-smackdown-women/|archive-date=July 25, 2018|url-status=live}}
On July 21, Paige scheduled a tag team title tournament with the winning team earning the right to challenge The Bludgeon Brothers (Harper and Rowan) for the SmackDown Tag Team Championship at SummerSlam.{{cite web|last=Wilen|first=Jerome|title=Paige announces No. 1 Contenders Tag Team Title Tournament that will start this Tuesday|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/109824-tag-team-title-tournament-smackdown-live/|work=WrestleView|date=July 21, 2018|access-date=July 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180724232415/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/109824-tag-team-title-tournament-smackdown-live/|archive-date=July 24, 2018|url-status=live}} The tournament began on the July 24 episode of SmackDown with The New Day (represented by Big E and Xavier Woods) and Cesaro and Sheamus advancing to the finals by defeating SAnitY (Alexander Wolfe and Killian Dain) and The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso), respectively.{{cite web|last=Barnett|first=Jake|title=7/31 Barnett's WWE Smackdown Live TV Review: Jeff Hardy and Randy Orton, The Usos vs. Sheamus and Cesaro in a No. 1 contenders tag tournament match, Zelina Vega vs. Lana, the SummerSlam build continues|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/07/31/7-31-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-jeff-hardy-and-randy-orton-the-usos-vs-sheamus-and-cesaro-in-a-no-1-contenders-tag-tournament-match-zelina-vega-vs-lana-the-summerslam-build-continu/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=July 31, 2018|access-date=July 31, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180801045849/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/07/31/7-31-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-jeff-hardy-and-randy-orton-the-usos-vs-sheamus-and-cesaro-in-a-no-1-contenders-tag-tournament-match-zelina-vega-vs-lana-the-summerslam-build-continu/|archive-date=August 1, 2018|url-status=live}} The New Day (represented by Big E and Kingston) then defeated Cesaro and Sheamus in the finals to face The Bludgeon Brothers for the titles at SummerSlam.{{cite web|last=Barnett|first=Jake|title=8/7 Barnett's WWE Smackdown Live TV Review: AJ Styles responds to Samoa Joe, New Day vs. The Bar for a Smackdown Tag Title match at SummerSlam, Becky Lynch and Charlotte vs. The Iiconics|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/07/8-7-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-aj-styles-responds-to-samoa-joe-new-day-vs-the-bar-for-a-smackdown-tag-title-match-at-summerslam-becky-lynch-and-charlotte-vs-the-iiconics/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=August 7, 2018|access-date=August 7, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180808041131/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/07/8-7-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-aj-styles-responds-to-samoa-joe-new-day-vs-the-bar-for-a-smackdown-tag-title-match-at-summerslam-becky-lynch-and-charlotte-vs-the-iiconics/|archive-date=August 8, 2018|url-status=live}}
On the July 24 episode of SmackDown, Becky Lynch defeated SmackDown Women's Champion Carmella in a non-title match to earn the right to challenge for the title at SummerSlam. The following week, Charlotte Flair returned and saved Lynch from an attack by Carmella. The same night, Flair defeated Carmella and was subsequently added to the title match, making it a triple threat match.
At Extreme Rules, Shinsuke Nakamura defeated Jeff Hardy to capture the United States Championship after a pre-match low blow. A rematch between the two for the title was scheduled for the following SmackDown which Hardy won by disqualification after he was attacked by Randy Orton.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=WWE SmackDown Results 7/17: Keller's report on Nakamura defends against Jeff Hardy, Extreme Rules follow-up and Road to Summerslam starts|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/07/17/wwe-smackdown-results-7-17-nakamura-defends-against-jeff-hardy-extreme-rules-follow-up-and-road-to-summerslam-starts/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=July 17, 2018|access-date=August 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230310001701/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/07/17/wwe-smackdown-results-7-17-nakamura-defends-against-jeff-hardy-extreme-rules-follow-up-and-road-to-summerslam-starts/|archive-date=March 10, 2023|url-status=live}} On August 3, another match between the two for the title was scheduled for SummerSlam.{{cite web|last=Martin|first=Adam|title=WWE quietly announces new championship match for SummerSlam, Updated card|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/110855-new-title-match-us-title-summerslam-ppv/|work=WrestleView|date=August 4, 2018|access-date=August 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805052123/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/110855-new-title-match-us-title-summerslam-ppv/|archive-date=August 5, 2018|url-status=live}}
In the first season of NXT in 2010, The Miz served as the "WWE Pro" of "NXT Rookie" Daniel Bryan. Throughout the season, Miz constantly berated Bryan, claiming he was not WWE material and expressing his displeasure at Bryan being his Rookie. The feeling was mutual as Bryan regularly alluded to the fact that he had been wrestling longer than Miz, stating that he should be the Pro and Miz should be the Rookie. On the May 11 episode of NXT, Bryan was eliminated from the show. The following week after his elimination, Bryan attacked The Miz and Michael Cole on NXT. The two would then feud over the United States Championship, which Bryan won from Miz at Night of Champions. Six years later, on the August 23, 2016, episode of Talking Smack, Bryan (then General Manager of SmackDown) got into a verbal altercation with The Miz, which consisted of Bryan criticizing Miz's wrestling ability and "safe style" of wrestling. The Miz responded by going on a rant about Bryan being unable to return to in-ring competition due to the various injuries he had sustained throughout his WWE career.{{cite web|last=Moore|first=John|title=Moore's WWE Talking Smack recap: The Miz cuts the best promo of his career in a verbal exchange with Daniel Bryan (fully transcribed), The Usos appear on the set, Carmella and Nikki Bella brawl|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2016/08/24/moores-wwe-talking-smack-recap-the-miz-cuts-the-best-promo-of-his-career-in-a-verbal-exchange-with-daniel-bryan-fully-transcribed-the-usos-appear-on-the-set-carmella-and-nikki-bella-brawl/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=August 24, 2016|access-date=August 7, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160825181612/https://prowrestling.net/site/2016/08/24/moores-wwe-talking-smack-recap-the-miz-cuts-the-best-promo-of-his-career-in-a-verbal-exchange-with-daniel-bryan-fully-transcribed-the-usos-appear-on-the-set-carmella-and-nikki-bella-brawl/|archive-date=August 25, 2016|url-status=live}} From this point forward, Bryan and Miz had sporadic interactions for over a year. On March 20, 2018, Bryan was medically cleared to return to in-ring competition by doctors,{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=Keller's WWE SmackDown Report 3/20: Daniel Bryan to appear live day he was medically cleared, Styles-Nakamura hype, U.S. Title hype, more|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/03/20/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-3-20-daniel-bryan-appear-live-day-medically-cleared-styles-nakamura-hype-u-s-title-hype/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=March 20, 2018|access-date=March 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180321131146/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/03/20/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-3-20-daniel-bryan-appear-live-day-medically-cleared-styles-nakamura-hype-u-s-title-hype/|archive-date=March 21, 2018|url-status=live}} after which he resumed his feud with The Miz. On the July 31 episode of SmackDown, Bryan challenged Miz to a match at SummerSlam. Miz initially declined the match, stating that he has always been above Bryan going back to NXT season one, and recommended that Bryan return to the independent circuit once his WWE contract expired. However, the following week, The Miz accepted Bryan's SummerSlam challenge.
On the July 24 episode of SmackDown, Andrade "Cien" Almas defeated Rusev. The following week, Zelina Vega defeated Lana. A rematch between Vega and Lana was scheduled the following week, with Vega winning again. On August 11, a mixed tag team match between Rusev and Lana and Almas and Vega was scheduled for SummerSlam Kickoff pre-show.{{cite web|last=Martin|first=Adam|title=New SummerSlam Kickoff Show match announced, Greatest SummerSlam PPV Endings|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/111422-summerslam-kickoff-show-greatest-summerslam-endings/|work=WrestleView|date=August 11, 2018|access-date=August 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180812053614/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/111422-summerslam-kickoff-show-greatest-summerslam-endings/|archive-date=August 12, 2018|url-status=live}}
==205 Live==
On the July 24 episode of 205 Live, Drew Gulak earned the right to challenge Cedric Alexander for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship by winning a fatal four-way match.{{cite web|last=Moore|first=John|title=7/24 Moore's WWE 205 Live Review: Mustafa Ali vs. Drew Gulak vs. Hideo Itami vs. TJP in a Fatal Four Way match for a WWE Cruiserweight Championship title shot, Akira Tozawa vs. Jack Gallagher|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/07/25/7-24-moores-wwe-205-live-review-mustafa-ali-vs-drew-gulak-vs-hideo-itami-vs-tjp-in-a-fatal-four-way-match-for-a-wwe-cruiserweight-championship-title-shot-akira-tozawa-vs-jack-gallagher/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=July 25, 2018|access-date=July 30, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725161209/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/07/25/7-24-moores-wwe-205-live-review-mustafa-ali-vs-drew-gulak-vs-hideo-itami-vs-tjp-in-a-fatal-four-way-match-for-a-wwe-cruiserweight-championship-title-shot-akira-tozawa-vs-jack-gallagher/|archive-date=July 25, 2018|url-status=live}} On July 30, the match between Alexander and Gulak for the title was scheduled for SummerSlam. Brian Kendrick and Gentleman Jack Gallagher were banned from ringside for the match.{{cite web|last=Currier|first=Joseph|title=Cruiserweight title match announced for WWE SummerSlam|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/cruiserweight-title-match-announced-wwe-summerslam-262786|work=Wrestling Observer Figure Four Online|date=July 30, 2018|access-date=July 30, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180731022234/https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/cruiserweight-title-match-announced-wwe-summerslam-262786|archive-date=July 31, 2018|url-status=live}}
Event
class=wikitable style="font-size:90%; margin: 0.5em 0 0.5em 1em; float: right; clear: right;"
|+ Other on-screen personnel !|Role: !|Name: |
rowspan=8|English commentators
|Michael Cole {{small|(Raw matches)}} |
Corey Graves {{small|(Raw/SmackDown matches)}} |
Jonathan Coachman {{small|(Raw matches)}} |
Tom Phillips {{small|(SmackDown matches)}} |
Byron Saxton {{small|(SmackDown matches)}} |
Vic Joseph {{small|(205 Live match)}} |
Nigel McGuinness{{small| (205 Live match)}} |
Percy Watson {{small|(205 Live match)}} |
rowspan=3|Spanish commentators |
Marcelo Rodríguez |
Jerry Soto |
rowspan=2|German commentators |
Calvin Knie |
rowspan=2|Ring announcers
|Greg Hamilton {{small|(205 Live/SmackDown matches)}} |
JoJo {{small|(Raw matches)}} |
rowspan=9|Referees
|Danilo Anfibio |
Jason Ayers |
Mike Chioda |
John Cone |
Dan Engler |
Darrick Moore |
Chad Patton |
Charles Robinson |
Rod Zapata |
rowspan=2|Interviewers |
Charly Caruso |
rowspan=5|Pre-show panel
|Renee Young |
Booker T |
Sam Roberts |
David Otunga |
Jerry Lawler |
rowspan=2|Pre-show correspondents |
John "Bradshaw" Layfield |
= Pre-show =
Three matches occurred on the SummerSlam Kickoff pre-show. In the first match, Andrade "Cien" Almas and Zelina Vega faced Rusev and Lana. In the climax, Vega pinned Lana with a roll-up using the ring ropes as leverage to win the match.
Next, Cedric Alexander defended the WWE Cruiserweight Championship against Drew Gulak. In the end, Alexander pinned Gulak with a roll-up to retain the title.
After that, The B-Team (Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel) defended the Raw Tag Team Championship against The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder). In the end, as Dawson attempted to pin Axel with a small package, Dallas fell onto Axel, reversing the small package and pinning Dawson to retain the titles.
= Preliminary matches =
The actual pay-per-view opened with Dolph Ziggler (accompanied by Drew McIntyre) defending Raw's Intercontinental Championship against Seth Rollins, accompanied by Dean Ambrose. McIntyre sent Ambrose into the steel steps at ringside, distracting Rollins and allowing Ziggler to perform a "Zig Zag" on Rollins for a nearfall. In the end, as McIntyre attempted to interfere, Ambrose performed "Dirty Deeds" on McIntyre. Rollins performed a superkick and "The Stomp" on Ziggler to regain the title for a second time.
Next, The Bludgeon Brothers (Harper and Rowan) defended the SmackDown Tag Team Championship against The New Day's Big E and Xavier Woods, accompanied by Kofi Kingston. The match ended when Rowan struck Woods and Big E with a mallet, thus The New Day won by disqualification, however, The Bludgeon Brothers retained the titles.
After that, Braun Strowman defended his Money in the Bank contract against Kevin Owens, with the stipulation that Strowman could lose the contract by any means. In the end, Strowman chokeslammed Owens onto the steel stage ramp. Strowman then rolled Owens back into the ring and performed a running powerslam on Owens to retain the contract and end the feud.
In the fourth match, Carmella defended the SmackDown Women's Championship against Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch. The ending saw Lynch apply the "Dis-Arm-Her" on Carmella, only for Flair to sneak behind & attack Lynch from behind with the "Natural Selection" for the pinfall to win the title to tie Trish Stratus' record, winning her seventh women's championship. After the match, Lynch attacked Flair, turning heel.
Next, AJ Styles defended SmackDown's WWE Championship against Samoa Joe. In the climax, as Joe continued to taunt Styles' wife and child, who were in attendance at ringside, an irate Styles tackled Joe through the barricade. Styles then attacked security personnel and struck Joe with a chair, causing a disqualification, thus Joe won the match, however, Styles retained the title.
Next, Elias promised a concert. As he was about to start, the guitar broke. He then discarded the guitar pieces and then departed backstage.
Next, Daniel Bryan faced The Miz. In the end, Miz's wife Maryse, who was seated in the front row, handed Miz a pair of brass knuckles that the referee did not see. As Bryan attempted a suicide dive, Miz struck Bryan with the object and tossed the object back to Maryse. Afterwards, Miz rolled Bryan back in the ring and pinned him to win the match.
After that, "The Demon" Finn Bálor faced Baron Corbin. Bálor performed a clothesline on Corbin sending him over the top rope. Bálor performed a Sling Blade followed by a dropkick on Corbin. In the climax, Bálor performed a "Coup de Grâce" on Corbin to win the match.
Later, Shinsuke Nakamura defended SmackDown's United States Championship against Jeff Hardy. In the end, Hardy attempted a "Swanton Bomb" on the ring apron onto Nakamura, but Nakamura moved, causing Hardy to land on the edge of the ring canvas. Nakamura then got Hardy back in the ring and performed a "Kinshasa" to retain the title. After the match, Randy Orton appeared, teasing an attack on Hardy, but left immediately afterwards.
In the penultimate match, Alexa Bliss defended the Raw Women's Championship against "Rowdy" Ronda Rousey. Natalya made her entrance first to be in Rousey's corner, and she wore her father Jim Neidhart's jacket to the ring, who had died a few days prior. Rousey dominated the entire match while Bliss mounted almost no offense at all. At the start, Bliss backed into the ropes twice and the referee forced Rousey to step back to the middle of the ring. Bliss left the ring twice but avoided a countout at a 5-count both times. After returning to the ring, Bliss applied a sleeper hold, but Rousey escaped and performed Piper's Pit to Bliss. Bliss then rolled out of the ring, leaving it for a third time, until Rousey chased her back in, avoiding another countout at a 6-count. Afterwards, Rousey blocked a right hand before performing another Piper's Pit. Finally, Rousey forced Bliss to submit to an armbar to win the title, becoming the first woman to win a championship in both the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and WWE, as well as the second person overall after Brock Lesnar. After the match, Rousey celebrated with Natalya and The Bella Twins (Nikki Bella and Brie Bella).
= Main event =
In the main event, Brock Lesnar (with Paul Heyman) defended Raw's WWE Universal Championship against Roman Reigns. Before the match began, Braun Strowman showed up, stating his intention to cash in his Money in the Bank contract on the winner and remaining at ringside. As soon as the match began, Reigns surprised Lesnar with three Superman Punches and three Spears. Lesnar performed a Guillotine Choke twice, but Reigns reversed it into a Spinebuster twice. Lesnar avoided a fourth Superman Punch and performed three German Suplexes on Reigns. As Lesnar attempted an F-5, Reigns reversed it into a fourth Spear attempt, but Lesnar avoided it and Reigns performed a Suicide Dive on Strowman at ringside by accident. There, Lesnar performed an F-5 on Strowman. Lesnar attacked Strowman with the Money in the Bank briefcase, throwing it to the entrance stage. In the climax, Lesnar attacked Strowman with a chair, preventing the cashing in after the match, but Reigns took advantage of the distraction and performed a fourth Spear for a pinfall (because while Lesnar returned to the ring with the chair to attack Reigns and get a DQ, Lesnar was still looking at Strowman), winning his first WWE Universal Championship and ending Lesnar's reign at 504 days.
Aftermath
=Raw=
On the following episode of Raw, new Universal Champion Roman Reigns made an open challenge, but announced that he specifically wanted to face Finn Bálor, as he was the inaugural champion who had to relinquish the title due to injury, but never received a rematch. Bálor accepted and Reigns retained the title. After the match, Braun Strowman attacked Reigns and attempted to cash in his Money in the Bank contract, but was intercepted by Reigns' colleagues from The Shield (Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose). The Shield performed their signature triple powerbomb on Strowman through an announce table. Also that episode, Paul Heyman confronted General Manager Kurt Angle about Brock Lesnar's contractual rematch, wanting it to occur at Hell in a Cell. Angle said that it was himself who decided about the time of the rematch and that Lesnar would not receive his rematch for a long time.{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/20/8-20-wwe-raw-results-kellers-full-run-down-and-analysis-of-post-summerslam-episode-including-reigns-stepping-out-in-brooklyn-as-new-champion/|title=8/20 WWE Raw Results: Keller's full run-down and analysis of post-Summerslam episode including Reigns stepping out in Brooklyn as new champion|date=August 20, 2018|last=Keller|first=Wade|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121220645/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/20/8-20-wwe-raw-results-kellers-full-run-down-and-analysis-of-post-summerslam-episode-including-reigns-stepping-out-in-brooklyn-as-new-champion/|archive-date=January 21, 2019|url-status=live}} According to Ambrose, the original plan was to reunite the Shield at SummerSlam, attacking Lesnar and helping Reigns to win the title, but Lesnar asked Vince McMahon to change the storyline.{{cite web|url=https://solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com/new/81220-jon-moxley-explica-como-brock-lesnar-arruino-el-evento-estelar-de-summerslam-2018|title=Jon Moxley explica cómo Brock Lesnar 'arruinó' el evento estelar de Summerslam 2018|date=June 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190603125503/https://solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com/new/81220-jon-moxley-explica-como-brock-lesnar-arruino-el-evento-estelar-de-summerslam-2018|archive-date=June 3, 2019|url-status=live}} The following week, Strowman confronted Reigns and announced that he would be cashing-in at Hell in a Cell inside the namesake structure so that Ambrose and Rollins could not interfere. WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley would later be named the special guest referee for the match.{{cite web|last=Campbell|first=Brian|title=WWE Raw results, recap, grades: Hell in a Cell go-home show delivers some strong moments|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-hell-in-a-cell-go-home-show-delivers-some-strong-moments/|date=September 11, 2018|work=CBSSports|access-date=September 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180912114508/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-hell-in-a-cell-go-home-show-delivers-some-strong-moments/|archive-date=September 12, 2018|url-status=live}} Also on the August 27 episode, Reigns teamed with Strowman to take on Ziggler and McIntyre. After Strowman tagged in, McIntyre and Ziggler attacked Reigns, and Strowman joined the beatdown. Rollins and Ambrose tried to help Reigns, but were overpowered, as well. This would also lead to a six-man tag team match pitting The Shield against Strowman, McIntyre, and Ziggler at Super Show-Down.{{cite web|last=Campbell|first=Brian|title=WWE Raw results, recap, grades: Kevin Owens shines, Braun Strowman confuses, Trish Stratus returns|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-kevin-owens-shines-braun-strowman-confuses-trish-stratus-returns/|work=CBSSports|date=August 28, 2018|access-date=August 28, 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180828170138/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-kevin-owens-shines-braun-strowman-confuses-trish-stratus-returns/|archive-date=August 28, 2018}} At Hell in a Cell, Reigns and Strowman's match ended in a no-contest after interference from Lesnar.{{cite web|last=Campbell|first=Brian|title=2018 WWE Hell in a Cell results, recap, grades: Brock Lesnar's surprise return, big title change|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/2018-wwe-hell-in-a-cell-results-recap-grades-brock-lesnars-surprise-return-big-title-change/|work=CBSSports|date=September 16, 2018|access-date=September 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180917060000/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/2018-wwe-hell-in-a-cell-results-recap-grades-brock-lesnars-surprise-return-big-title-change/|archive-date=September 17, 2018|url-status=live}} This would set up a triple threat match between Reigns, Lesnar, and Strowman for the Universal Championship at Crown Jewel.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=9/17 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report with the Hell in a Cell follow-up including controversial finish with Brock Lesnar in the main event|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/09/17/9-17-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-with-the-hell-in-a-cell-follow-up-including-controversial-finish-with-brock-lesnar-in-the-main-event/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=September 17, 2018|access-date=September 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180920084040/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/09/17/9-17-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-with-the-hell-in-a-cell-follow-up-including-controversial-finish-with-brock-lesnar-in-the-main-event/|archive-date=September 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
Dean Ambrose with new Intercontinental Champion Seth Rollins also had a match against Dolph Ziggler. Rollins took out McIntyre, allowing Ambrose to defeat Ziggler.
A championship celebration with all of the women of Raw and Raw Commissioner Stephanie McMahon occurred for new Raw Women's Champion Ronda Rousey. Stephanie tried to take credit for Rousey being in WWE and subsequently becoming champion, but Rousey said her win was for all women, not for herself or for Stephanie. Rousey then applied the armbar to Stephanie. The following week, Alexa Bliss invoked her championship rematch clause for Hell in a Cell.
Raw Tag Team Champions The B-Team (Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas) took on The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder) in back-to-back singles matches, where Dawson defeated Dallas and Wilder defeated Axel. The following week, The Revival defeated The B-Team. A title match between the two teams was scheduled for the September 3 episode, but The B-Team were attacked backstage by Dolph Ziggler and Drew McIntyre, who went on to become the new champions.{{cite web|last=Berge|first=Kevin|title=WWE Raw Results: Winners, Grades, Reaction and Highlights from September 3|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2792951-wwe-raw-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights-from-september-3|date=September 3, 2018|work=Bleacher Report|access-date=September 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180904214453/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2792951-wwe-raw-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights-from-september-3|archive-date=September 4, 2018|url-status=live}}
=SmackDown=
WWE Champion AJ Styles was interviewed about his match against Samoa Joe. He explained that he did not regret what he did to Joe, but was upset that he lost the match due to his actions. He warned Joe to never talk about his family again. Joe then attacked Styles from behind.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=WWE SmackDown Results 8/21: Keller's report on SummerSlam follow-up, Becky Lynch-Charlotte, Styles-Joe, Creepy Randy|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/21/wwe-smackdown-results-8-21-kellers-report-on-summerslam-follow-up-becky-lynch-charlotte-styles-joe-creepy-randy/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 21, 2018|access-date=August 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220117172001/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/21/wwe-smackdown-results-8-21-kellers-report-on-summerslam-follow-up-becky-lynch-charlotte-styles-joe-creepy-randy/|archive-date=January 17, 2022|url-status=live}} On August 24, a rematch between the two was scheduled for Hell in a Cell.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Hell in a Cell lineup: Two matches advertised for the September event|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/24/wwe-hell-in-a-cell-lineup-two-matches-advertised-for-the-september-event/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=August 24, 2018|access-date=August 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180824232122/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/24/wwe-hell-in-a-cell-lineup-two-matches-advertised-for-the-september-event/|archive-date=August 24, 2018|url-status=live}}
The New Day received a SmackDown Tag Team Championship rematch against The Bludgeon Brothers in a No Disqualification match. Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston represented The New Day and defeated The Bludgeon Brothers to become three-time SmackDown Tag Team Champions.
The Miz faked a retirement speech by saying that he was retired from facing Daniel Bryan ever again. Bryan came out and called Miz a coward for having to cheat to win. He then said that General Manager Paige approved a mixed tag team match pitting himself and his wife Brie Bella against The Miz and his wife Maryse at Hell in a Cell. It was also announced that The Miz and Bryan would have a rematch at Super Show-Down, with the winner earning a future WWE Championship match.{{cite web|last1=Johnson|first1=Mike|last2=Fernandes|first2=Steven|title=WWE revamps match on Super Show-Down, new matches revealed|url=https://www.pwinsider.com/article/119814/wwe-revamps-match-on-super-showdown-new-matches-revealed.html?p=1|work=PWInsider|date=August 22, 2018|access-date=August 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180822145935/https://www.pwinsider.com/article/119814/wwe-revamps-match-on-super-showdown-new-matches-revealed.html?p=1|archive-date=August 22, 2018|url-status=live}}
Becky Lynch explained her reasoning for attacking new SmackDown Women's Champion Charlotte Flair after the triple threat match. She claimed that she realized Charlotte had been holding her back the whole time and was not really her friend. Charlotte came out and the two brawled. Former champion Carmella was granted her rematch for the following week, where Flair retained. After the match, Lynch attacked Flair again.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=WWE SmackDown Results 8/28: Keller's report on Charlotte vs. Carmella, next chapter with Becky Lynch, Miz & Maryse-Bryan & Brie hype, Orton-Hardy hype|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/28/wwe-smackdown-results-8-28-kellers-report-on-charlotte-vs-carmella-next-chapter-with-becky-lynch-miz-maryse-bryan-brie-hype-orton-hardy-hype/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 28, 2018|access-date=August 29, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230305175810/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/28/wwe-smackdown-results-8-28-kellers-report-on-charlotte-vs-carmella-next-chapter-with-becky-lynch-miz-maryse-bryan-brie-hype-orton-hardy-hype/|archive-date=March 5, 2023|url-status=live}} On the September 4 episode, a title match between Flair and Lynch was made official for Hell in a Cell.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=9/4 WWE SmackDown Results: Keller's report on latest with Becky and Charlotte, Styles back-to-school BBQ, triple threat tag match|date=September 4, 2018|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/09/04/wwe-smackdown-results-9-4-kellers-report-on-latest-with-becky-and-charlotte-styles-back-to-school-bbq-triple-threat-tag-match/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=September 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230309234105/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/09/04/wwe-smackdown-results-9-4-kellers-report-on-latest-with-becky-and-charlotte-styles-back-to-school-bbq-triple-threat-tag-match/|archive-date=March 9, 2023|url-status=live}}
Becky Lynch's heel turn at SummerSlam would change her career. The storyline would go all the way to the main event of WrestleMania 35 on April 8, 2019, where Lynch defeated Charlotte Flair and Ronda Rousey in a winner takes all triple threat match to win the Raw and SmackDown women's championships.{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=WrestleMania 35 event results 4/7: Keller's match report and analysis including Lesnar vs. Rollins, Rousey vs. Charlotte vs. Lynch, Bryan vs. Kofi, Batista vs. Triple H|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2019/04/07/wrestlemania-35-event-results-4-7-kellers-match-report-and-analysis-including-lesnar-vs-rollins-rousey-vs-charlotte-vs-lynch-bryan-vs-kofi-batista-vs-triple-h/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=April 7, 2019|access-date=April 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921194355/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2019/04/07/wrestlemania-35-event-results-4-7-kellers-match-report-and-analysis-including-lesnar-vs-rollins-rousey-vs-charlotte-vs-lynch-bryan-vs-kofi-batista-vs-triple-h/|archive-date=September 21, 2020|url-status=live}}
Jeff Hardy faced Randy Orton in a singles match, which ended in Orton winning by disqualification. After the match, they brawled into the crowd, where Hardy attacked Orton with steel chairs and a camera, then performed a "Swanton Bomb" on Orton through a table. The following week, Hardy challenged Orton to a Hell in a Cell match at Hell in a Cell, and Orton accepted.
Rusev and Lana received a rematch against Andrade Cien Almas and Zelina Vega, where they won after Aiden English prevented Almas from using a steel chair.
=205 Live=
Drew Gulak claimed that Cedric Alexander got lucky in retaining the WWE Cruiserweight Championship and demanded a rematch, but was denied by 205 Live General Manager Drake Maverick.{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/21/8-21-wwe-205-live-report-summerslam-championship-match-fallout-tjp-vs-noam-dar-and-more/|title=8/21 WWE 205 Live Report: Summerslam championship match fallout, TJP vs. Noam Dar, and more|date=August 21, 2018|last=Heydorn|first=Zack|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180822214241/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/08/21/8-21-wwe-205-live-report-summerslam-championship-match-fallout-tjp-vs-noam-dar-and-more/|archive-date=August 22, 2018|url-status=live}}
Results
{{Pro wrestling results table
|times = {{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=Powell's WWE SummerSlam 2018 Kickoff Show coverage: B-Team vs. The Revival for the Raw Tag Titles, Rusev and Lana vs. Andrade and Zelina Vega, Cedric Alexander vs. Drew Gulak for the WWE Cruiserweight Title|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/19/powells-wwe-summerslam-2018-kickoff-show-coverage-b-team-vs-the-revival-for-the-raw-tag-titles-rusev-and-lana-vs-andrade-almas-and-zelina-vega-cedric-alexander-vs-drew-gulak-for-the-wwe-cruise/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820012137/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/19/powells-wwe-summerslam-2018-kickoff-show-coverage-b-team-vs-the-revival-for-the-raw-tag-titles-rusev-and-lana-vs-andrade-almas-and-zelina-vega-cedric-alexander-vs-drew-gulak-for-the-wwe-cruise/|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=Powell's WWE SummerSlam 2018 live review: Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship, AJ Styles vs. Samoa Joe for the WWE Championship, Alexa Bliss vs. Ronda Rousey for the Raw Women's Championship, Daniel Bryan vs. The Miz|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/19/powells-wwe-summerslam-2018-live-review-brock-lesnar-vs-roman-reigns-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-aj-styles-vs-samoa-joe-for-the-wwe-championship-alexa-bliss-vs-ronda-rousey-for-the-raw/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074606/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/08/19/powells-wwe-summerslam-2018-live-review-brock-lesnar-vs-roman-reigns-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-aj-styles-vs-samoa-joe-for-the-wwe-championship-alexa-bliss-vs-ronda-rousey-for-the-raw/|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|match1 = Andrade "Cien" Almas and Zelina Vega defeated Lana and Rusev by pinfall
|stip1 = Mixed tag team match{{cite web|last=Pappolla|first=Ryan|title=Andrade "Cien" Almas & Zelina Vega def. Rusev & Lana|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/rusev-lana-andrade-cien-almas-zelina-vega-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820044024/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/rusev-lana-andrade-cien-almas-zelina-vega-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|note1 = pre
|time1 = 7:00
|match2 = Cedric Alexander (c) defeated Drew Gulak by pinfall
|stip2 = Singles match for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship{{cite web|last=Powers|first=Kevin|title=WWE Cruiserweight Champion Cedric Alexander def. Drew Gulak|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/cedric-alexander-drew-gulak-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074616/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/cedric-alexander-drew-gulak-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|note2 = pre
|time2 = 10:15
|match3 = The B-Team (Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel) (c) defeated The Revival (Dash Wilder and Scott Dawson) by pinfall
|stip3 = Tag team match for the WWE Raw Tag Team Championship{{cite web|last=Melok|first=Bobby|title=Raw Tag Team Champions The B-Team def. The Revival (SummerSlam Kickoff Match)|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/the-b-team-the-revival-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820043851/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/the-b-team-the-revival-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|note3 = pre
|time3 = 6:15
|match4 = Seth Rollins (with Dean Ambrose) defeated Dolph Ziggler (c) (with Drew McIntyre) by pinfall
|stip4 = Singles match for the WWE Intercontinental Championship{{cite web|last=Pappolla|first=Ryan|title=Seth Rollins def. Dolph Ziggler to win Intercontinental Championship|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/dolph-ziggler-seth-rollins-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074800/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/dolph-ziggler-seth-rollins-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time4 = 22:00
|match5 = The New Day (Big E and Xavier Woods) (with Kofi Kingston) defeated The Bludgeon Brothers (Harper and Rowan) (c) by disqualification
|stip5 = Tag team match for the WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship{{cite web|last=Burdick|first=Michael|title=The New Day def. SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Bludgeon Brothers by disqualification|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/the-bludgeon-brothers-the-new-day-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820044242/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/the-bludgeon-brothers-the-new-day-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time5 = 9:45
|match6 = Braun Strowman (contract holder) defeated Kevin Owens by pinfall
|stip6 = Singles match for the Money in the Bank contract{{cite web|last=Melok|first=Bobby|title=Braun Strowman def. Kevin Owens to retain his Money in the Bank contract|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/braun-strowman-kevin-owens-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074627/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/braun-strowman-kevin-owens-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time6 = 1:50
|match7 = Charlotte Flair defeated Carmella (c) and Becky Lynch by pinfall
|stip7 = Triple threat match for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship{{cite web|last=Pappolla|first=Ryan|title=Charlotte Flair def. Carmella (c) and Becky Lynch to win the SmackDown Women's Championship|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/carmella-charlotte-flair-becky-lynch-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820044000/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/carmella-charlotte-flair-becky-lynch-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time7 = 15:15
|match8 = Samoa Joe defeated AJ Styles (c) by disqualification
|stip8 = Singles match for the WWE Championship{{cite web|last=Melok|first=Bobby|title=Samoa Joe def. WWE Champion AJ Styles by disqualification|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/aj-styles-samoa-joe-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820105712/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/aj-styles-samoa-joe-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time8 = 22:45
|match9 = The Miz defeated Daniel Bryan by pinfall
|stip9 = Singles match{{cite web|last=Pappolla|first=Ryan|title=The Miz def. Daniel Bryan|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/daniel-bryan-the-miz-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074930/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/daniel-bryan-the-miz-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time9 = 23:30
|match10 = "The Demon" Finn Bálor defeated Baron Corbin by pinfall
|stip10 = Singles match{{cite web|last=Melok|first=Bobby|title="The Demon" Finn Balor def. "Constable" Baron Corbin|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/finn-balor-constable-baron-corbin-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074958/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/finn-balor-constable-baron-corbin-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time10 = 1:35
|match11 = Shinsuke Nakamura (c) defeated Jeff Hardy by pinfall
|stip11 = Singles match for the WWE United States Championship{{cite web|last=Pappolla|first=Ryan|title=United States Champion Shinsuke Nakamura def. Jeff Hardy|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/shinsuke-nakamura-jeff-hardy-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074749/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/shinsuke-nakamura-jeff-hardy-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time11 = 11:00
|match12 = Ronda Rousey defeated Alexa Bliss (c) by submission
|stip12 = Singles match for the WWE Raw Women's Championship{{cite web|last=Melok|first=Bobby|title=Ronda Rousey def. Alexa Bliss to become Raw Women's Champion|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/alexa-bliss-ronda-rousey-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820043609/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/alexa-bliss-ronda-rousey-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time12 = 4:00
|match13 = Roman Reigns defeated Brock Lesnar (c) (with Paul Heyman) by pinfall
|stip13 = Singles match for the WWE Universal Championship{{cite web|last=Pappolla|first=Ryan|title=Roman Reigns def. Brock Lesnar to win the Universal Championship|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/brock-lesnar-roman-reigns-results|work=WWE|date=August 19, 2018|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074603/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/brock-lesnar-roman-reigns-results|archive-date=August 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
|time13 = 6:10
}}
=SmackDown Tag Team Championship tournament=
| RD1=Semi-finals
{{small|SmackDown (7/24, 7/31)}}
| RD2=Final
{{small|SmackDown (8/7)}}
| RD1-seed1 =
| RD1-team1 = The New Day
{{small|(Big E and Xavier Woods)}}
| RD1-score1 = Pin
| RD1-seed2 =
| RD1-team2 = Sanity
{{small|(Alexander Wolfe and Killian Dain)}}
| RD1-seed3 =
| RD1-team3 = The Usos
{{small|(Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso)}}
| RD1-seed4 =
| RD1-team4 = Sheamus and Cesaro
| RD1-score4 = Pin
| RD2-seed1 =
| RD2-team1 = The New Day
{{small|(Big E and Kofi Kingston)}}
| RD2-score1 = Pin
| RD2-seed2 =
| RD2-team2 = Sheamus and Cesaro
}}
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
- {{Official website|https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam|SummerSlam Official Website}}
{{2018 WWE Network events}}
{{WWEPPV|SummerSlam}}
Category:2018 WWE Network events
Category:2018 WWE pay-per-view events
Category:2018 in New York City