WWE SummerSlam: Power Ranking Every Show

1993

This SummerSlam emanating from the Auburn Hills was undoubtedly an event lacking in star power, and a ridiculous, corny conclusion. The first PPV since Hulk Hogan departed the WWE, the main event was a WWE Championship match between Yokozuna and Lex Luger. The monstrous Japanese heavyweight had been a dominant force in the company for months, but Luger, the All-American Hero, was promoted as the man to end his diabolical reign. And Luger did slay the giant… by count out.

This meant fans were treated to this overworked celebration, with Luger hoisted on people’s shoulders with red, white and blue draping the ring, even though he did not win the title. This was a bizarre way to end an event that was already nothing special to begin with. The Undertaker faced Giant Gonzalez in one of the worst matches of his entire career, Bret Hart was saddled with Doink the Clown, and not even Shawn Michaels defending his Intercontinental Championship against Mr. Perfect was not enough to rescue the evening due to its disqualification finish. 4 out the night’s 10 contests ended either by count out or DQ, which should never take place on any PPV, let alone SummerSlam. And the lasting image is that of Luger celebrating not winning the WWE Championship.