SummerSlam has long been one of WWE’s most anticipated events, often delivering unforgettable moments. While WrestleMania might get the spotlight, SummerSlam has hosted some of the most unexpected WWE World Title matches that left fans buzzing for weeks. Whether it was an unlikely challenger, a sudden title change, or a match that outperformed all expectations, these bouts brought unpredictability to the grand stage of SummerSlam.
With WWE’s rich history and evolving roster, not every title match is a guaranteed main event classic — but sometimes, it’s the surprises that become the stuff of legend. Here are four of the most surprising WWE World Title matches at SummerSlam that had fans on the edge of their seats, reminding everyone why this event is known as “The Biggest Party of the Summer.”
1. Jinder Mahal vs. Shinsuke Nakamura – SummerSlam 2017
Jinder Mahal vs. Shinsuke Nakamura (Image via Getty)When Jinder Mahal walked into SummerSlam 2017 as WWE Champion, many fans still couldn’t believe his sudden rise to the top. Even more unexpected was his opponent: Shinsuke Nakamura, who had only been on the main roster for a few months. Given Nakamura’s celebrated career in Japan and NXT, many expected him to finally capture the gold. Instead, Mahal retained the title, thanks to interference from the Singh Brothers.
This match was surprising not just because of the result but because it represented a rare moment when two relatively new main-eventers clashed for the top prize. Fans were stunned as Nakamura’s quest was halted, making this one of the most talked-about outcomes of the night.
2. Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns vs. Samoa Joe vs. Braun Strowman – SummerSlam 2017
SummerSlam 2017 offered one of the wildest WWE Universal Title matches in history when Brock Lesnar defended his title against Roman Reigns, Samoa Joe, and Braun Strowman in a fatal four-way. While Lesnar was always a dominant force, the idea of him losing the title seemed possible, given the lineup.
What made this match stand out was the sheer chaos and physicality. Strowman bulldozed Lesnar through tables, and Joe and Reigns each came close to victory. Many believed this would be the night Lesnar’s reign ended — especially since it was rumored he might leave WWE. Instead, he retained the championship, defying predictions and leaving fans in awe of his resilience.
3. CM Punk vs. Big Show vs. John Cena – SummerSlam 2012
CM Punk vs. Big Show vs. John Cena (Image via Getty)CM Punk was already deep into his historic WWE Championship reign when he walked into SummerSlam 2012 to defend against both John Cena and Big Show. Yet, the match’s setup and outcome surprised many. While triple threat matches are always unpredictable, fans largely assumed Cena or Show would walk out as champion — especially since Punk was showing signs of turning heel.
Instead, Punk managed to retain the title in a hard-fought contest, cementing his hold on the championship for what would eventually become a 434-day reign. His victory over two of WWE’s biggest stars in one of the company’s biggest events of the year solidified Punk’s standing as “The Best in the World,” adding a twist that not everyone saw coming.
4. John Cena vs. Daniel Bryan – SummerSlam 2013
Fans expected a good match when Daniel Bryan was chosen to challenge John Cena for the WWE Championship at SummerSlam 2013, but few anticipated what actually unfolded. Bryan, seen as an underdog, gave Cena one of his toughest fights, ultimately defeating him with a running knee.
However, what truly made this bout one of the most surprising WWE World Title matches at SummerSlam was what happened after the final bell. Triple H, acting as guest referee, turned on Bryan, allowing Randy Orton to cash in his Money in the Bank contract and steal the championship. Fans watched in disbelief as Bryan’s crowning moment was ripped away, setting the stage for a months-long underdog story that would eventually lead to WrestleMania XXX.
SummerSlam has always been a place where legends are made and expectations are flipped upside down. These WWE World Title matches serve as proof that when it comes to this storied event, fans should always expect the unexpected — because anything can happen when the stakes are at their highest.