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 19, 2012
Attendance: 14,205
Promoted by: World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)
MAIN EVENT:
Brock Lesnar vs. Triple H
Billed as “The Perfect Storm,” the match was promoted as a battle of legitimacy: Lesnar, the real fighter fresh off his UFC run, vs. Triple H, the proud company man. It was physical, deliberate, and grounded in storytelling—targeting the arm injury Lesnar had inflicted on Triple H weeks earlier.
In a surprise to many, Lesnar won clean by making Triple H tap to the Kimura Lock. After the match, Triple H teased retirement by soaking in boos and chants of “you tapped out,” marking a rare moment where The Game showed vulnerability in defeat.
Why it Mattered:
This was Lesnar’s first big win since returning to WWE, helping solidify him as a destructive, legit monster. It also proved WWE was willing to let their biggest stars lose when the story demanded it—something that didn’t happen often in the past.
WHAT TO WATCH:
1. CM Punk (c) vs. John Cena vs. Big Show (WWE Championship – Triple Threat Match)
Punk was deep into his 434-day title reign, but the spotlight often drifted to Cena. This match allowed Punk to shine, overcoming both Cena and Big Show by pinning Show after Cena hit the AA. A solid, if not spectacular, defense that highlighted Punk’s cunning.
2. Chris Jericho vs. Dolph Ziggler
Arguably the match of the night. Jericho and Ziggler had fantastic chemistry, and this bout had everything—near-falls, reversals, and a hot crowd. Jericho got the win, but Ziggler’s star power was undeniable. Their feud would continue, but this was a standout showing for both.
3. The Miz vs. Rey Mysterio (Intercontinental Championship)
A very good midcard title match. Rey, dressed as Batman, brought energy and agility, while Miz brought a mean streak and retained with his Skull Crushing Finale. Short but effective.
WHAT TO SKIP:
Kane vs. Daniel Bryan
This match existed more to advance the comedy angle of Bryan’s “anger management” storyline than to deliver in the ring. While the segments that followed would become cult favorites, the match itself was forgettable.
Sheamus vs. Alberto Del Rio (World Heavyweight Championship)
An overbooked, heatless title bout that ended in controversy when Sheamus won after using the ropes (and the ref missed it). Del Rio never clicked as a heel during this run, and the crowd didn’t buy him as a threat to Sheamus’s reign.
AFTERMATH:
SummerSlam 2012 was a show of transitions. Lesnar was back and re-established. Punk was solidifying his reign, though cracks were beginning to show in how he was being booked. Dolph Ziggler and Daniel Bryan were gaining momentum, while Triple H temporarily stepped away from the ring.
The card may not have been all-time elite, but it helped set the tone for the fall and winter season, where Punk’s reign, The Shield’s debut, and Lesnar’s dominance would all take center stage.
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