As the countdown to WWE SummerSlam 2025 at MetLife Stadium begins, Back Sports Page proudly launches the SummerSlam Review Series—a nostalgic, in-depth look back at the most iconic moments in the history of WWE’s summer spectacle. From the legendary main events to unforgettable rivalries and pivotal turning points, we’ll revisit each SummerSlam in chronological order, breaking down what made them special—and what didn’t. Join us on this journey through time as we relive the legacy of SummerSlam while building the excitement for one of the biggest wrestling events ever to hit the New York/New Jersey area
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York City
Date: August 29, 1988
Attendance: 20,000
MAIN EVENT:
The Mega Powers (Hulk Hogan & “Macho Man” Randy Savage, w/ Miss Elizabeth) vs. The Mega Bucks (Ted DiBiase & André the Giant, w/ Bobby Heenan & Virgil)
Special Guest Referee: Jesse “The Body” Ventura
The first-ever SummerSlam culminated with one of the most iconic tag team matches in wrestling history. Built on months of escalating tension and dramatic promos, the Mega Powers’ alliance was an experiment in combustible charisma. Hulk Hogan’s mainstream heroism and Randy Savage’s unpredictable intensity fused into a superteam with unmatched crowd appeal.
The match had every ingredient of late-80s WWF drama: a hostile crowd reacting to every beat, over-the-top promos, outside interference, and of course, a special referee in Jesse Ventura—who added both unpredictability and credibility. The finish, triggered by Miss Elizabeth’s now-legendary move of removing her skirt to distract the heels, helped Hogan and Savage pick up the win and further solidified their dominance heading into the tail end of 1988.
Why it Mattered:
This match planted early seeds of distrust between Hogan and Savage that would later bloom into their bitter feud and eventual clash at WrestleMania V. It was also WWF’s declaration that SummerSlam would be more than a one-off—it would be the third tentpole event alongside WrestleMania and Survivor Series.
WHAT TO WATCH:
1. Ultimate Warrior vs. Honky Tonk Man (Intercontinental Championship)
Length: 31 seconds
Why it rocks: One of the loudest pops of the night. Warrior answered an open challenge and steamrolled Honky Tonk Man, ending his 454-day reign in seconds. This match instantly launched Warrior into stardom and gave the Intercontinental title a shot of adrenaline.
2. British Bulldogs & The Rougeau Brothers (Time Limit Draw)
A showcase of tag team wrestling from two teams with undeniable chemistry. Though it ended in a draw, the action was non-stop and technically sound.
3. Demolition (c) vs. Hart Foundation (Tag Team Titles)
An underrated title defense that highlighted the Hart Foundation’s crisp teamwork and Demolition’s brutal brawling style. Classic late-80s tag work.
WHAT TO SKIP:
Ken Patera vs. Bad News Brown
Despite Bad News Brown’s presence, the pacing dragged and the crowd wasn’t invested. A forgettable match that did little for either man.
Dino Bravo vs. Don Muraco
Another slow, by-the-numbers match that never really found its footing. Bravo’s push felt forced, and Muraco was past his peak.
AFTERMATH:
SummerSlam ’88 successfully set the tone for future August mega-events. Hogan and Savage’s win planted a slow-burning storyline that would explode at WrestleMania V, while Ultimate Warrior’s rise began here. The event also proved that non-title matches and character moments—like Elizabeth’s pivotal role—could be just as essential as championship bouts.
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