SummerSlam has always been WWE’s home for unforgettable moments. From shocking betrayals and surprise returns to championship upsets, The Biggest Party of the Summer has built its legacy on creating memories that fans never see coming.
This year’s two-night extravaganza already features blockbuster matches. This includes Roman Reigns defending the World Heavyweight Championship against Seth Rollins and CM Punk putting the Undisputed WWE Championship on the line against Cody Rhodes.
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Also, recent episodes of RAW and SmackDown have intensified multiple storylines heading into the event. Thus, making it the premium live event one of the most unpredictable in recent memory.
That said, in this article, we look at four moments that could leave the WWE Universe stunned at SummerSlam 2026.
#4. Zilla Fatu makes his WWE debut
The Bloodline saga has dominated WWE programming for years. However, SummerSlam could introduce its newest chapter with the long-awaited arrival of Zilla Fatu.
Roman Reigns has once again established himself as the centerpiece of the company after winning the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42. Thus, introducing another member of the legendary Anoa’i family on one of its biggest weekends would generate enormous buzz.
Even if Zilla Fatu doesn’t directly influence Roman Reigns’ title match, a post-match appearance would immediately become one of the weekend’s biggest talking points.
#3. Randy Orton returns
The Viper has been absent from WWE programming for several weeks. This has left fans wondering when he’ll strike next.
Reports and speculation have continued to link Randy Orton with a SummerSlam return. Given this, there may not be a better stage for one of the biggest stars to make his comeback.
The beauty of a Randy Orton return is that the company has several compelling directions available. He could confront CM Punk if the latter retains the Undisputed WWE Championship. He could target Cody Rhodes if the latter regains the title. Orton could even insert himself into a completely different rivalry, immediately reminding everyone why he’s one of the greatest predators.
Randy Orton’s history with The American Nightmare adds another fascinating layer. The two share Evolution ties, mutual respect, and plenty of unfinished business. Thus, if Cody regains the Undisputed WWE Championship, Orton may return to attack him.
Alternatively, the company could save The Viper’s first RKO for someone completely unexpected, creating an instant viral moment. After months away, hearing “Voices” hit inside a packed SummerSlam stadium would undoubtedly produce one of the loudest reactions of the year.
#2. Seth Rollins dethrones Roman Reigns
Roman Reigns enters SummerSlam as the World Heavyweight Champion. However, Seth Rollins may be the superstar best positioned to end his reign.
Their rivalry spans more than a decade. Thus, making this one of the most personal championship matches in years. The company has spent weeks building the feud through heated confrontations, culminating in a tense contract signing where Rollins stood tall.
Normally, standing tall before a premium live event suggests that the wrestler will lose. However, Triple H has often used that expectation against fans.
Given this, Rollins defeating Roman would instantly reshape WWE’s landscape. Roman has appeared nearly unstoppable since capturing the World Heavyweight Championship. Thus, many fans expect him to retain again.
That expectation is exactly why Rollins’ winning would be so shocking. Also, a title change would create fresh rivalries. Roman Reigns would be forced into chasing a championship instead of defending one. Meanwhile, Seth could begin a new era as the face of RAW.
#1. Cody Rhodes turns heel after losing to CM Punk
Perhaps no moment at SummerSlam would generate a bigger reaction than Cody Rhodes embracing the dark side.
Cody enters his Undisputed WWE Championship match against CM Punk determined to reclaim the title he recently lost. The rivalry has become one of the hottest stories. Gunther’s interference and escalating tensions have added further intrigue before SummerSlam.
Despite Cody Rhodes‘ popularity, there have been subtle hints that frustration is beginning to consume him. If Punk defeats Cody clean, Rhodes may finally snap.
Instead of shaking Punk’s hand, The American Nightmare could brutally attack the champion after the match. Thus, shocking fans who have supported him throughout his inspirational journey.
A heel turn would completely refresh Cody Rhodes’ character. For years, Rhodes has portrayed the ultimate fighting babyface, a superstar driven by honor, perseverance, and finishing his story. Thus, losing another championship opportunity, especially after coming so close, could convince him that playing by the rules no longer works.
Also, turning heel would open countless blockbuster rivalries. Most importantly, it would be genuinely unexpected. Very few fans currently anticipate Cody abandoning everything that made him one of WWE’s biggest heroes. That’s precisely why such a betrayal would become one of the defining moments of SummerSlam 2026 and potentially the biggest storyline heading into the rest of the year.
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Edited by Steffi