From body slams to broken hearts, SummerSlam has always been WWE’s midsummer proving ground. Since 1988, this annual event has delivered unforgettable moments, classic matches, and storyline shifts that have redefined careers. At Back Sports Page, we’re diving deep into every SummerSlam in history—breaking down the main events, spotlighting the must-watch bouts, skipping the filler, and analyzing the aftermath that shaped the future. Whether it’s legends colliding, titles changing hands, or unexpected swerves, this series captures it all. Welcome to the ultimate retrospective on The Biggest Party of the Summer.
Venue: Staples Center, Los Angeles, California
Date: August 23, 2009
Attendance: 17,129
Promoted by: World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)
MAIN EVENT:
CM Punk vs. Jeff Hardy (TLC Match – World Heavyweight Championship)
This was storytelling and spectacle fused into one. Jeff Hardy and CM Punk had been building one of the most personal rivalries of the PG era—clashing over lifestyle choices, respect, and identity. In a show-stealing Tables, Ladders & Chairs match, the two delivered chaos, drama, and real emotion.
Punk took a hellacious beating, but survived it all, pushing Hardy off the top of a super ladder and unhooking the title to become a three-time World Heavyweight Champion. The closing shot of the show wasn’t celebration—it was a twist. As Punk stood triumphant, the lights went out… and The Undertaker returned, sitting up in Hardy’s place and confronting the new champ.
Why it Mattered:
This was the culmination of Hardy’s last WWE run for years and the beginning of Punk’s heel excellence. The feud was personal and intense, and Punk’s win—coupled with Taker’s return—pivoted SmackDown into a whole new arc.
WHAT TO WATCH:
1. Randy Orton vs. John Cena (WWE Championship)
The match was polarizing, but the psychology was strong. Orton used every trick possible—intentional DQs, stalling, outside interference from Brett DiBiase—before finally retaining with an RKO after multiple restarts. The story made Orton look like a master manipulator, though some fans felt the finish was too chaotic.
2. D-Generation X (Triple H & Shawn Michaels) vs. The Legacy (Cody Rhodes & Ted DiBiase Jr.)
A surprisingly competitive match. While most assumed a DX squash, Legacy brought their A-game. It was Shawn’s in-ring return after time off, and the veteran team ultimately prevailed after nearly 20 minutes of hard-fought action. Legacy looked strong in defeat.
3. Rey Mysterio vs. Dolph Ziggler (Intercontinental Championship)
An excellent opener and arguably Ziggler’s breakout match. Rey was reliable as ever, and Dolph proved he could hang at a high level. Mysterio retained, but both men impressed, setting the tone for the night.
WHAT TO SKIP:
The Great Khali vs. Kane
A plodding big-man match with little intrigue. It was more about their size than their story, and the crowd sat on their hands for most of it. Kane’s post-match attack was more impactful than the match itself.
Christian vs. William Regal (ECW Championship)
This match was over before it started. A surprise quick win for Christian, followed by a beatdown by Regal and his crew. It worked in the context of a storyline, but was frustratingly short for a PPV bout involving two seasoned pros.
AFTERMATH:
SummerSlam 2009 delivered big in terms of emotional payoff and momentum shifts. CM Punk’s rise as the top heel on SmackDown truly began here, and Jeff Hardy’s WWE departure was executed with impact. Meanwhile, Cena and Orton added another intense chapter to their storied rivalry, and DX proved they could still headline in a changing landscape.
Though some matches underdelivered, the main event and opener gave the show a strong frame—and the surprise return of The Undertaker sent the crowd home buzzing.
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