WWE SummerSlam: Power Ranking Every Show

2011

The 2011 edition of SummerSlam was strong on the wrestling quality, but hindered by some less than compelling feuds leading into the show itself and a disappointing ending. Unquestionably, the highlight of the entire card was the conclusion to the Randy Orton/Christian feud that underscored the best of SmackDown in the summer. The pair had fantastic chemistry in all of their bouts, as both added prestige to the world title picture with their quality of performances. This No Holds Barred fight was the pick of the entire rivalry, and became a candidate for Match of the Year.

Nevertheless, in spite of the superb quality of this title change and the overall high level of feats from most on the card, this event was sullied by its unpopular conclusion. CM Punk and John Cena both walked into SummerSlam as the WWE Champion, but yet it was Alberto Del Rio who walked out with that accolade. This was due to the outcome of Punk and Cena’s battle, which was technically sound but lives firmly in the shadow of their Money in the Bank epic from a month earlier. Then, Kevin Nash assaulted Punk, leaving him prone for Del Rio to cash in his briefcase. It was a definitive speedbump on the red hot “Summer of Punk” and leaves a retrospective sour taste due to the failure to capitalize on this convoluted conclusion.