SummerSlam (2016)

{{Short description|WWE pay-per-view and livestreaming event}} {{Infobox Wrestling event |name = SummerSlam |image = SummerSlam_2016.jpg |caption = Promotional poster featuring various WWE wrestlers |tagline = |promotion = WWE |brand = Raw<br />SmackDown |date = August 21, 2016 |attendance = 15,974 |venue = Barclays Center |city = Brooklyn, New York |wwenlast = NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn II |wwennext = Backlash |event = SummerSlam |lastevent2 = 2015 |nextevent2 = 2017 }} The 2016 '''SummerSlam''' was a professional wrestling pay-per-view (PPV) and livestreaming event produced by WWE. It was the 29th annual SummerSlam and took place on August 21, 2016, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York for the second consecutive year, held for wrestlers from the promotion's Raw and SmackDown brand divisions. It was the first PPV event held after the brand extension, which was reintroduced in July, went into full effect.

Twelve matches were contested at the event, including three on the Kickoff pre-show. In the main event, which was an interbrand match, Raw's Brock Lesnar defeated SmackDown's Randy Orton by technical knockout. In another marquee match, "The Demon King" Finn Bálor defeated Seth Rollins to become the inaugural WWE Universal Champion, which was introduced to be Raw's world championship. In other prominent matches, Dean Ambrose defeating Dolph Ziggler to retain SmackDown's WWE World Championship, and AJ Styles defeated John Cena in a singles match.

==Production== ===Background=== [[File:BarclayCenter-2 (48034233762).jpg|thumb|right|The event was held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.]] SummerSlam is an annual professional wrestling event produced every August by WWE since 1988. Dubbed "The Biggest Party of the Summer",<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/news/archive/summerslam06shoot| title=Let the Party Begin|first=Louie|last=Dee|work=WWE|access-date=May 12, 2008|date=May 17, 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061116055908/https://www.wwe.com/inside/news/archive/summerslam06shoot|archive-date=November 16, 2006|url-status=live}}</ref> it is one of the promotion's original four pay-per-views (PPV), along with WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, and Survivor Series, referred to as the "Big Four".<ref>Ian Hamilton. ''Wrestling's Sinking Ship: What Happens to an Industry Without Competition'' (p. 160)</ref> It has since become considered WWE's second biggest event of the year behind WrestleMania.<ref>{{cite web|first=Matty|last=Paddock|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/wwe-mma-wrestling/wwe-summerslam-results-brock-lesnar-jinder-mahal-finn-balor-john-cena-sasha-banks-alexa-bliss-a7904051.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170822131734/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/wwe-mma-wrestling/wwe-summerslam-results-brock-lesnar-jinder-mahal-finn-balor-john-cena-sasha-banks-alexa-bliss-a7904051.html|archive-date=August 22, 2017|url-access=subscription|url-status=live|title=WWE SummerSlam results: Brock Lesnar and Jinder Mahal survive as Finn Balor defeats Bray Wyatt|access-date=August 21, 2017|website=Independent.co.uk|date=August 21, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-summerslam-2018-matches-card-location-date-start-time-predictions-ppv-rumors/|title=WWE SummerSlam 2018 matches, card, location, date, start time, predictions PPV rumors|work=CBSSports|first=Jack|last=Crosby|access-date=August 19, 2018|date=August 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180808140559/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-summerslam-2018-matches-card-location-date-start-time-predictions-ppv-rumors/|archive-date=August 8, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> Announced on September 28, 2015, the 2016 event was the 29th SummerSlam and was scheduled to be held on August 21, 2016, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York for the second consecutive year. In addition to airing on traditional PPV, the event was livestreamed on the WWE Network. Tickets went on sale on April 2 through Ticketmaster. It featured wrestlers from the Raw and SmackDown brand divisions, being the first pay-per-view to occur after the brand split went into full effect following its reintroduction the previous month. It was also the first pay-per-view to feature the WWE Universal Championship, following its establishment for Raw the previous month after the WWE World Heavyweight Championship became exclusive to SmackDown and renamed to WWE World Championship.<ref name="SS20162017">{{cite web|title=WWE SummerSlam returns to Barclays Center in 2016 and 2017|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-barclays-center-brooklyn-2016-2017|work=WWE|date=September 28, 2015|access-date=September 28, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150930201817/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-barclays-center-brooklyn-2016-2017-27967171|archive-date=September 30, 2015|url-status=live|author=WWE.com Staff}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Get SummerSlam 2016 tickets now|author=WWE.com Staff|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/article/summerslam-2016-tickets|date=April 2, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=May 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160402080723/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/article/summerslam-2016-tickets|archive-date=April 2, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

Ahead of the event, WWE and KFC, which was that year's event sponsor, held a promotional tie-in for its "Chicken Little" chicken sandwich. It featured a match between The Miz, dressed as "Puppers Cluckers" in a yellow chicken suit and Dolph Ziggler, as Colonel Sanders which took place after the conclusion of the August 16 episode of ''SmackDown Live'' where Ziggler emerged victorious.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.sescoops.com/news/dolph-ziggler-the-miz-film-segment-for-kfc-after-smackdown/|title=Video: Dolph Ziggler & the Miz Film Segment for KFC After SmackDown|newspaper=Se Scoops |date=August 17, 2016|access-date=January 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230115225033/https://www.sescoops.com/news/dolph-ziggler-the-miz-film-segment-for-kfc-after-smackdown/|archive-date=January 15, 2023|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Storylines=== The event comprised 12 matches, including three on the Kickoff pre-show, that resulted from scripted storylines. Results were predetermined by WWE's writers on the Raw and SmackDown brands,<ref>{{cite web|title=How Pro Wrestling Works|url=https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/pro-wrestling.htm|last=Grabianowski|first=Ed|work=HowStuffWorks|date=January 13, 2006|publisher=Discovery Communications|access-date=March 5, 2012|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131129050844/https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/pro-wrestling.htm|archive-date=November 29, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Live & Televised Entertainment|url=https://corporate.wwe.com/company/events.jsp|work=WWE|access-date=March 21, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090218142749/https://corporate.wwe.com/company/events.jsp|archive-date=February 18, 2009}}</ref> while storylines were produced on WWE's weekly television shows, ''Monday Night Raw'' and ''SmackDown Live''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://variety.com/2016/tv/news/wwe-smackdown-live-usa-1201782569/|title=WWE's 'Smackdown' Will Move To Live Broadcast On USA (Exclusive)|last=Steinberg|first=Brian|date=May 25, 2016|website=Variety|access-date=May 25, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160526113045/https://variety.com/2016/tv/news/wwe-smackdown-live-usa-1201782569/|archive-date=May 26, 2016}}</ref>

On June 5, WWE granted Brock Lesnar a "one-off opportunity" to return to mixed martial arts competition at ''UFC 200'' on July 9, while also confirming that Lesnar would compete at SummerSlam.<ref>{{cite web|last=Gerbasi|first=Thomas|title=Brock Lesnar announces return at UFC 200|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/brock-lesnar-announces-return-ufc-200|work=UFC|date=June 6, 2016|access-date=July 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181115230322/https://www.ufc.com/news/brock-lesnar-announces-return-ufc-200|archive-date=November 15, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Okamoto|first=Brett|title=Brock Lesnar to face Mark Hunt, calls self 'modern-day Bo Jackson'|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/15995312/brock-lesnar-face-mark-hunt-ufc-200|website=ESPN|date=June 6, 2016|access-date=July 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160825093521/https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/15995312/brock-lesnar-face-mark-hunt-ufc-200|archive-date=August 25, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> On the July 7 episode of ''SmackDown'', Lesnar's SummerSlam opponent was announced as Randy Orton, who was returning from injury.<ref name="Smackdown07072016">{{cite web|last=Parks|first=Greg|title=7/7 WWE SmackDown – Parks's Complete, Real-Time Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/07/77-wwe-smackdown-parkss-complete-real-time-report/|date=July 7, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160709123829/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/07/77-wwe-smackdown-parkss-complete-real-time-report/|archive-date=July 9, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=Brock Lesnar's WWE SummerSlam match officially announced|date=July 7, 2016|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/07/brock-lesnars-wwe-summerslam-match-officially-announced/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160709123835/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/07/brock-lesnars-wwe-summerslam-match-officially-announced/|archive-date=July 9, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> WWE billed the match as "15 years in the making".<ref>{{cite web|title=Tonight on Raw: Brock Lesnar vs Randy Orton – 15 Years in the Making|url=https://www.wwe.com/playlist/brock-lesnar-vs-randy-orton-15-years-in-the-making|work=WWE|date=August 8, 2016|access-date=August 8, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160811221105/https://www.wwe.com/playlist/brock-lesnar-vs-randy-orton-15-years-in-the-making|archive-date=August 11, 2016}}</ref> On July 15, WWE confirmed that the match would still be taking place, despite a USADA notification in regards to Lesnar's UFC fight, stemming from an out-of-competition sample collected on June 28, which tested positive for a banned substance.<ref>{{cite web|title=Brock Lesnar informed of potential violation by USADA|url=https://www.wwe.com/article/brock-lesnar-anti-doping-policy-violation|work=WWE|quote=Brock Lesnar has not performed for WWE since WrestleMania and is not scheduled to return until Sunday, Aug. 21|date=July 15, 2016|access-date=July 16, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160717145701/https://www.wwe.com/article/brock-lesnar-anti-doping-policy-violation|archive-date=July 17, 2016}}</ref> A second sample taken in-competition on July 9 was also tested positive for the same banned substance, believed to be hydroxy-clomifene, discovered in the previous sample.<ref>{{cite web|title=UFC Statement on Brock Lesnar|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/UFC-Statement-on-Brock-Lesnar-071916|date=July 19, 2016|work=UFC|access-date=July 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160722123537/https://www.ufc.com/news/UFC-Statement-on-Brock-Lesnar-071916|archive-date=July 22, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> On July 26, WWE confirmed that Lesnar would not be facing any disciplinary action from WWE as he is exempt from the WWE Wellness Policy due to his status as a part-time performer.<ref>{{cite web|title=Brock Lesnar won't be punished by WWE; not subject to wellness policy|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/brock-lesnar-wont-be-punished-wwe-not-subject-wellness-policy-217356|work=Wrestling Observer Figure Four Online|date=July 26, 2016|access-date=July 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160728150957/https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/brock-lesnar-wont-be-punished-wwe-not-subject-wellness-policy-217356|archive-date=July 28, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=WWE says Brock Lesnar not suspended for UFC 200 violations|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/26/wwe-says-brock-lesnar-not-suspended-ufc-200-violations/|last=Caldwell|first=James|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=July 26, 2016|access-date=July 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160730002933/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/26/wwe-says-brock-lesnar-not-suspended-ufc-200-violations/|archive-date=July 30, 2016}}</ref> Orton returned at Battleground as the guest on Chris Jericho's "Highlight Reel". Orton said that he only needed one ''RKO'' to take down Lesnar and also took a shot at Lesnar's failed drug tests.<ref name="BG16">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=7/24 WWE Battleground Results – Caldwell's Complete Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/24/jcbattlegroundppvreport/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=July 24, 2016|access-date=July 24, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160727004908/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/24/jcbattlegroundppvreport/|archive-date=July 27, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> On the August 1 episode of ''Raw'', Lesnar's manager Paul Heyman proclaimed that Orton would never be able to execute his finisher on Lesnar when Orton suddenly appeared and attacked Lesnar with an ''RKO''.<ref name="Raw08012016">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=8/1 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live TV Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/01/aug1rawresultsfinal/|date=August 1, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160804024813/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/01/aug1rawresultsfinal/|archive-date=August 4, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Lesnar subsequently attacked Orton with an ''F-5'' during his match against Fandango on ''SmackDown'' the next night.<ref name="Smackdown08022016"/> The last ''Raw'' before SummerSlam saw Lesnar and Heyman cutting another promo on Orton until Heath Slater interrupted, aiming to earn a WWE contract (as he was undrafted in the WWE draft) by defeating Lesnar. Lesnar attacked Slater with an ''F-5'' to send a message to Orton.<ref name="Raw08152016">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=8/15 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live TV Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/15/aug15rawresultsfinal/|date=August 15, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 15, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818104108/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/15/aug15rawresultsfinal/|archive-date=August 18, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Slater faced Orton the next night on ''SmackDown'' to earn a contract. Orton intentionally got himself disqualified, mocking Lesnar before attacking Slater with an ''RKO''.<ref name="Smackdown08162016">{{cite web|last=Parks|first=Greg|title=8/16 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete, Real-Time Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/16/816-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-real-time-report/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 16, 2016|access-date=August 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818220223/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/16/816-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-real-time-report/|archive-date=August 18, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:NXT Champion Finn Balor 2016.jpg|thumb|left|200px|alt=|Finn Bálor wrestled Seth Rollins at the event for the inaugural WWE Universal Championship.]] After SmackDown draftee Dean Ambrose retained the WWE World Championship at Battleground against Raw draftees Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins in a triple threat match, ''Raw'' was left without a world title.<ref name="BG16"/> Subsequently, Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley announced a new championship, the WWE Universal Championship, the following night on ''Raw'' to serve as the brand's top championship. It was then announced that the inaugural champion would be crowned at SummerSlam in a singles match; Rollins, as ''Raw''{{'}}s #1 draft pick, was automatically set for that match, while his opponent was determined by two fatal four-way matches that night, with the winners wrestling each other in a singles match. Finn Bálor won the first qualifier by defeating Cesaro, Kevin Owens, and Rusev, while Reigns won the second by defeating Chris Jericho, Sami Zayn, and Sheamus. Bálor then defeated Reigns and was added to the title match at SummerSlam.<ref name="Raw07252016">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=7/25 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/25/july25rawresultsfinal/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=July 25, 2016|access-date=July 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160727202411/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/25/july25rawresultsfinal/|archive-date=July 27, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Bálor and Rollins confronted each other the following week, both promising to win at SummerSlam. Rollins then attempted to attack Bálor, but Bálor countered, forcing Rollins to retreat.<ref name="Raw08012016"/> Two weeks later, Bálor's alter ego, "The Demon King", confronted Rollins after Rollins called him out.<ref name="Raw08152016"/>

On the July 26 episode of ''SmackDown'', a six-pack challenge involving John Cena, Bray Wyatt, AJ Styles, Dolph Ziggler, Baron Corbin, and Apollo Crews was held to determine the #1 contender for the WWE World Championship at SummerSlam. Ziggler won the match by pinning Styles.<ref name="Smackdown07262016">{{cite web|last=Parks|first=Greg|title=7/26 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete Live Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/26/july26smackdownfinal/|date=July 26, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160728145957/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/26/july26smackdownfinal/|archive-date=July 28, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The next week, after Dean Ambrose doubted Ziggler's ability, Wyatt attacked Ziggler and challenged him for his title shot. Ziggler accepted and defeated Wyatt.<ref name="Smackdown08022016">{{cite web|last=Parks|first=Greg|title=8/2 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete Live Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/02/82-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-live-report/|date=August 2, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 2, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160806162811/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/02/82-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-live-report/|archive-date=August 6, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The next week, after Ambrose and Ziggler teamed up to defeat Wyatt and Erick Rowan, Ambrose performed ''Dirty Deeds'' on Ziggler.<ref name="Smackdown08092016">{{cite web|last=Parks|first=Greg|title=8/9 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete Live TV Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/09/89-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-live-tv-report/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 9, 2016|access-date=August 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160811235022/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/09/89-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-live-tv-report/|archive-date=August 11, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler responded by attacking Ambrose with a superkick on their "Miz TV" segment during the final episode of ''SmackDown'' before SummerSlam.<ref name="Smackdown08162016"/>

At Battleground, Sasha Banks recruited Bayley from NXT as a mystery partner to defeat WWE Women's Champion Charlotte and Dana Brooke in a tag team match when Sasha made Charlotte submit.<ref name="BG16"/> This earned Sasha a title match against Charlotte the following night on ''Raw'', in which she again made Charlotte submit to win the title.<ref name="Raw07252016"/> Charlotte invoked her rematch clause five days later to face Sasha for the title at SummerSlam.<ref>{{cite web|last=Martin|first=Adam|title=Sasha Banks vs. Charlotte for the WWE Women's Championship officially announced for SummerSlam PPV|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/65133-sasha-banks-vs-charlotte-wwe-womens-championship-officially-announced-summerslam-ppv/|work=Wrestleview|date=July 30, 2016|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160804062743/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/65133-sasha-banks-vs-charlotte-wwe-womens-championship-officially-announced-summerslam-ppv/|archive-date=August 4, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The following week, a confrontation between the two was interrupted by Chris Jericho and Enzo Amore, resulting in a mixed tag team match, which Charlotte and Jericho won.<ref name="Raw08012016"/> On the August 8 episode of ''Raw'', Sasha Banks defeated Brooke, resulting in Dana being banned from ringside at SummerSlam.<ref name="Raw08082016">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=8/8 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live TV Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/08/aug8rawtvresultsfinal/|date=August 8, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 8, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160810184730/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/08/aug8rawtvresultsfinal/|archive-date=August 10, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

After the aforementioned mixed tag team match, Chris Jericho attacked Enzo Amore until Big Cass came out to help his partner. Later in the event, Owens told Jericho that he had his back during a backstage interview with Tom Phillips.<ref name="Raw08012016"/> The following week, Jericho defeated Amore by disqualification when Cass interfered. After the match, Cass challenged Owens and Jericho to a tag team match at SummerSlam, which Owens and Jericho accepted.<ref name="Raw08082016"/>

After AJ Styles's victory over John Cena at Money in the Bank,<ref name="MITB16">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=6/19 WWE MITB PPV Results – Caldwell's Complete Live Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/06/19/619-wwe-mitb-ppv-results-caldwells-ongoing-live-report/|date=June 19, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=June 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160621185909/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/06/19/619-wwe-mitb-ppv-results-caldwells-ongoing-live-report/|archive-date=June 21, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> the club (Styles, Karl Anderson, and Luke Gallows) began attacking Cena until Enzo Amore and Big Cass came to Cena's aide, setting up a six-man tag team match for Battleground. At the event, Cena, Amore, and Cass defeated The club.<ref name="BG16"/> During the draft Amore, Cass, Anderson, and Gallows were drafted to ''Raw'', while Cena and Styles were drafted to ''SmackDown'', splitting up the two teams. On the August 2 episode of ''SmackDown'', Styles challenged Cena to another match at SummerSlam, which Cena accepted.<ref name="Smackdown08022016"/>

On the August 2 episode of ''SmackDown'', Apollo Crews defeated Baron Corbin and Kalisto in a triple threat match to earn an Intercontinental Championship match against The Miz at SummerSlam.<ref name="Smackdown08022016"/>

On the July 25 episode of ''Raw'', The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Big E, and Xavier Woods) were celebrating in the ring on becoming the longest reigning WWE Tag Team Champions. While celebrating with a fan, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson attacked all three members of New Day.<ref name="Raw07252016"/> The following week on ''Raw'', Big E and Kingston defeated Gallows and Anderson. Gallows and Anderson then attacked all three members of New Day, finishing with Gallows and Anderson pulling Big E groin-first into the ring post, causing a contusion in Big E's groin.<ref name="Raw08012016"/> On August 8, Woods and Kingston were scheduled to defend the WWE Tag Team Championship against Gallows and Anderson at SummerSlam.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=WWE Tag Title match announced for Summerslam – New Day member not advertised|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/08/wwe-tag-title-match-announced-summerslam-new-day-member-not-advertised/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 8, 2016|access-date=August 8, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814125637/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/08/wwe-tag-title-match-announced-summerslam-new-day-member-not-advertised/|archive-date=August 14, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

After losing to Cesaro on the August 1 episode of ''Raw'', Sheamus attacked Cesaro.<ref name="Raw08012016"/> On the August 8 episode of ''Raw'', Cesaro defeated Sheamus again, but lost a match for the United States Championship against Rusev after interference from Sheamus.<ref name="Raw08082016"/> On the August 15 episode of ''Raw'', Cesaro distracted Sheamus, costing him a match against Sami Zayn. During an ensuing argument, Raw General Manager Mick Foley scheduled a Best-of-Seven Series between the two, with the first match taking place at SummerSlam.<ref name="Raw08152016"/> On August 19, the match was moved to the SummerSlam Kickoff pre-show.<ref name="Kickoffannounced">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=SummerSlam Update – Pre-show tag match announced, main PPV match bumped to pre-show|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/19/summerslam-update-pre-show-tag-match-announced-main-ppv-match-bumped-pre-show/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 19, 2016|access-date=August 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821181427/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/19/summerslam-update-pre-show-tag-match-announced-main-ppv-match-bumped-pre-show/|archive-date=August 21, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

Eva Marie was drafted to ''SmackDown'', but for several episodes, circumstances, including a pulled hamstring<ref name="Smackdown08022016"/> and a wardrobe malfunction,<ref name="Smackdown08092016"/> prevented her from making her in-ring debut. On the August 16 episode, Eva Marie no-showed for her match against Naomi. Later that night, Becky Lynch and Carmella took on Natalya and Alexa Bliss; during the match, Marie appeared on the entrance ramp. Naomi then appeared and started to chase Marie, passing the ring at one point. During the confusion, Lynch applied her "Dis-Arm-Her" on Natalya, who submitted. Later on, a six-woman tag team match was scheduled for SummerSlam.<ref name="Smackdown08162016"/> On August 18, Marie was suspended for 30 days due to a violation of WWE's wellness policy, taking her out of the match.<ref>{{cite web|author=WWE.com Staff|title=WWE suspends Eva Marie|url=https://www.wwe.com/article/wwe-suspends-eva-marie|date=August 18, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818193411/https://www.wwe.com/article/wwe-suspends-eva-marie|archive-date=August 18, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> In light of this, WWE's advertising was intentionally vague about whether the match would be turned into a three-on-two handicap or if Natalya and Bliss would have a third partner.

On the August 16 episode of ''SmackDown'', American Alpha (Chad Gable and Jason Jordan), The Hype Bros (Zack Ryder and Mojo Rawley), and The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso) defeated Breezango (Tyler Breeze and Fandango), The Ascension (Konnor and Viktor), and The Vaudevillains (Aiden English and Simon Gotch).<ref name="Smackdown08162016"/> On August 19, a rematch was scheduled for the SummerSlam Kickoff pre-show.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=SummerSlam Update – Third pre-show match announced for Sunday|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/19/summerslam-update-third-pre-show-match-announced-sunday/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 19, 2016|access-date=August 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823124514/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/19/summerslam-update-third-pre-show-match-announced-sunday/|archive-date=August 23, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> On the same show, Jon Stewart, who had been SummerSlam's guest host the previous year, was announced to be returning to the event as a special guest.<ref name="Raw08152016"/><ref>{{cite web|author=WWe.com Staff|title=Jon Stewart to return to WWE SummerSlam|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/article/jon-stewart-summerslam-2016|work=WWE|date=August 15, 2016|access-date=August 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817153741/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/article/jon-stewart-summerslam-2016|archive-date=August 17, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Hanstock|first=Bill|title=Jon Stewart Will Once Again Appear At WWE SummerSlam|url=https://uproxx.com/prowrestling/wwe-summerslam-2016-jon-stewart-special-guest/|work=Uproxx|date=August 16, 2016|access-date=August 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160816105839/https://uproxx.com/prowrestling/wwe-summerslam-2016-jon-stewart-special-guest/|archive-date=August 16, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

====Cancelled match==== On the August 1 episode of ''Raw'', after United States Champion Rusev defeated Mark Henry to retain the title, Roman Reigns confronted Rusev.<ref name="Raw08012016"/> The following week, Reigns interrupted Rusev and Lana's wedding celebration and issued a challenge to Rusev for the title. Rusev declined and the two brawled, causing Lana to fall into a wedding cake. Backstage, Mick Foley told an angered Lana and Rusev that Rusev would be defending his United States title against Reigns at SummerSlam. Later that night, Rusev successfully defended his title in an impromptu match against Cesaro. After the match, Rusev was attacked by Reigns with a Spear.<ref name="Raw08082016"/> Reigns defeated Rusev in a non-title match the following week.<ref name="Raw08152016"/>

== Event == {|class=wikitable style="font-size:90%; margin: 0.5em 0 0.5em 1em; float: right; clear: right;" |+ '''Other on-screen personnel''' !|Role: !|Name: |- |rowspan=6|English commentators |Michael Cole {{small|(Raw)}} |- |Corey Graves {{small|(Raw/Main Event)}} |- |Byron Saxton {{small|(Raw/Main Event)}} |- |Mauro Ranallo {{small|(SmackDown/Main Event)}} |- |John "Bradshaw" Layfield {{small|(SmackDown/Main Event)}} |- |David Otunga {{small|(SmackDown)}} |- |rowspan=3|Spanish commentators |Carlos Cabrera |- |Marcelo Rodríguez |- |Jerry Soto |- |rowspan=2|Ring announcers |Greg Hamilton {{small|(SmackDown)}} |- |JoJo {{small|(Raw)}} |- |rowspan=10|Referees |Jason Ayers |- |Shawn Bennett |- |Mike Chioda |- |John Cone |- |Dan Engler |- |Darrick Moore |- |Chad Patton |- |Charles Robinson |- |Ryan Tran |- |Rod Zapata |- |rowspan=3|Backstage interviewers |Tom Phillips |- |Andrea D'Marco |- |Maria Menounos |- |rowspan=4|Pre-show panel |Renee Young |- |Booker T |- |Jerry Lawler |- |Lita |- |}

=== Pre-show === Three matches were contested on the SummerSlam Kickoff pre-show. In the first match, American Alpha (Jason Jordan and Chad Gable), The Hype Bros (Zack Ryder and Mojo Rawley), and The Usos (Jey and Jimmy Uso) faced Breezango (Tyler Breeze and Fandango), The Ascension (Konnor and Viktor), and The Vaudevillains (Aiden English and Simon Gotch) in a twelve-man tag team match. Jey Uso won the match for his team by pinning Simon Gotch after a Samoan Splash.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

After that, Sami Zayn and Neville squared off against The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray Dudley and D-Von Dudley) in a tag team match. In the end, Zayn performed a Helluva Kick on Bubba Ray followed by Neville executing the "Red Arrow" for the pinfall.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

Finally, Sheamus wrestled Cesaro in the first match of the best-of-seven series. Sheamus won the match with a "Brogue Kick" on Cesaro for the pinfall.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

=== Preliminary matches === The actual pay-per-view opened with Enzo Amore and Big Cass facing Chris Jericho and Kevin Owens. In the climax, Amore executed a diving DDT on Jericho only for Owens to break up the pinfall. Owens and Jericho then performed a Pop-Up "Codebreaker" on Amore, with Jericho pinning Amore for the win.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

In the second match, Sasha Banks defended the WWE Women's Championship against Charlotte with Dana Brooke banned from ringside. Early in the match, both combatants tried to apply their respective holds on each other but their efforts were not successful. However, Charlotte caught Banks on the top turnbuckle and dropped her, causing Banks to land awkwardly, injuring her back in the process. At one point during the match, Banks managed to counter a Razor's Edge powerbomb into a hurricanrana. Banks performed her Double Knees move on Charlotte's back for a nearfall. Banks blocked a Superplex attempt and followed up with a Meteora outside the ring. Back inside, Banks attempted a Backstabber, but failed because of her injured back. Charlotte attempted a "Natural Selection", only for Banks to counter into the "Bank Statement". Charlotte managed to escape and eventually executed the "Natural Selection" on Banks for a near-fall. In the end, Banks applied the "Bank Statement", however, Charlotte shifted her weight to score a pinfall victory and regain the championship.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

Next, The Miz defended the Intercontinental Championship against Apollo Crews. The match ended when The Miz avoided a "Stinger Splash" by Crews, allowing Miz to execute the "Skull Crushing Finale" to retain the title.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

In the fourth match, AJ Styles faced John Cena. Early in the match, Styles countered an "Attitude Adjustment" into a Pele Kick and executed a "Styles Clash" for a near-fall, followed by Cena executing an "Attitude Adjustment" on Styles for a near-fall. Styles attempted a Springboard on Cena, which Cena countered into the STF. A trade of reversals from Styles's Calf Crusher and Cena's STF followed. Styles executed a "Phenomenal Forearm" on Cena for a two count. Cena performed a "Super Attitude Adjustment" on Styles for a nearfall. A shocked Cena tried another "Attitude Adjustment", but Styles countered it into a "Styles Clash". After a second "Phenomenal Forearm", Styles pinned Cena to win the match. After the match, Cena removed his armband and put it in the center of the ring before departing backstage to a standing ovation from the crowd.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

After that, Jon Stewart, acting as a replacement for the injured Big E, introduced the WWE Tag Team Champions, The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) for their title defense against Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson. Gallows and Anderson executed the "Magic Killer" on Kingston, but Stewart entered the ring and distracted them. Gallows and Anderson then tried to injure Stewart's groin using the ring post when Big E ran in, making his return, and attacked Gallows and Anderson, thus causing a disqualification. Gallows and Anderson won the match, but The New Day retained the tag team championships.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

In the sixth match, Dean Ambrose defended the WWE World Championship against Dolph Ziggler. In the end, Ambrose executed "Dirty Deeds" on Ziggler to retain the title.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

After that, Becky Lynch, Naomi, and Carmella were scheduled to face Natalya, Alexa Bliss, and Eva Marie in a six-woman tag team match. After Eva Marie was declared absent, Nikki Bella was introduced as her replacement. The match ended when Nikki performed a Forearm Smash on Carmella, who had been distracted by Natalya and Bliss, and executed a Fireman's Carry Cutter to win the match for her team.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley then unveiled the new WWE Universal Championship belt in the ring. The inaugural champion was then determined in a match between "The Demon King" Finn Bálor and Seth Rollins, in a match that could only end in pinfall or submission. Early in the match, Rollins powerbombed Bálor into the barricade, causing Bálor to legitimately dislocate his shoulder. Later, Bálor attempted a Coup de Grâce, but Rollins moved out of the way and performed a Pedigree for a nearfall. Bálor then avoided a Phoenix Splash attempt and dropkicked Rollins into the corner turnbuckles. Bálor attempted a Coup de Grâce, but Rollins countered into a Superplex and attempted a Pedigree, only for Bálor to counter into a double stomp. Afterwards, Bálor dropkicked Rollins into the turnbuckles twice and followed up with the Coup de Grâce on Rollins to become the inaugural WWE Universal Champion.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

Next, Rusev was scheduled to defend the United States Championship against Roman Reigns. However, before the match officially started, Rusev attacked Reigns, resulting in a brawl. While the referees tried to separate the two, Reigns hit Rusev with a chair. Finally, Rusev was declared unable to compete. After the announcement was made, Reigns attacked Rusev with a spear.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

=== Main event === In the main event, Brock Lesnar fought Randy Orton. During the match, Lesnar threw Orton off the barricade through a broadcast table. Orton executed an ''RKO'' on the top of another broadcast table. Orton carried Lesnar back to the ring and performed an off-the-rope DDT. Orton then executed a second ''RKO'' for a near-fall. As Orton attempted a punt kick, Lesnar countered with an ''F-5'' for a near-fall. Lesnar removed his gloves and attacked Orton bare-knuckled, legitimately hitting him with numerous elbow strikes which caused Orton to bleed profusely. This led to Lesnar winning via technical knockout and Randy Orton tended to by WWE medical personnel. Afterwards, Shane McMahon came to the ring to check on Orton and was immediately given an F5 by Lesnar when confronted.<ref name="SSlam2016"/>

== Aftermath == Following the event, Randy Orton received ten staples to close a laceration on his forehead.<ref>{{cite web|title=Randy Orton injury update|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/article/randy-orton-injury-update|work=WWE|date=August 21, 2016|access-date=August 21, 2016}}</ref> Reportedly, there was also a backstage confrontation between Brock Lesnar and Chris Jericho. According to Dave Meltzer of ''Wrestling Observer Newsletter'', Jericho questioned WWE producer Michael Hayes about whether the finish was planned or not. After getting no response from Hayes, Jericho became angrier. Lesnar confronted Jericho and the two exchanged words and tangled up against a wall before Triple H and Vince McMahon broke up the situation, with McMahon stating that the ending was planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|title=Brock Lesnar, Chris Jericho in heated altercation at SummerSlam|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/brock-lesnar-chris-jericho-heated-altercation-summerslam-219211|work=Wrestling Observer Figure Four Online|date=August 22, 2016|access-date=August 23, 2016}}</ref>

=== Raw === The following night on ''Raw'', Finn Bálor vacated the Universal Championship due to a shoulder injury incurred at SummerSlam. On the same night, General Manager Mick Foley scheduled a fatal four-way elimination match for the next week's ''Raw'' to crown a new champion. Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens, Big Cass, and Roman Reigns each qualified for the match by defeating Sami Zayn, Neville, Rusev, and Chris Jericho, respectively.<ref name="Raw08222016">{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/22/aug22rawresultsfinal/|title=8/22 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live TV Report|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=August 22, 2016|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 23, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823125702/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/22/aug22rawresultsfinal/|archive-date=August 23, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Owens subsequently won the WWE Universal Championship.<ref name="Raw08292016">{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|date=August 29, 2016|title=Keller's WWE Raw Review 8/29: Ongoing coverage of fatal four way for the WWE Universal Title|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/29/kellers-wwe-raw-review-829-ongoing-coverage-fatal-four-way-wwe-universal-title-match-kevin-owens-seth-rollins-roman-reigns-big-cass/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 29, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160901173718/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/29/kellers-wwe-raw-review-829-ongoing-coverage-fatal-four-way-wwe-universal-title-match-kevin-owens-seth-rollins-roman-reigns-big-cass/|archive-date=September 1, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

Also on the post-SummerSlam ''Raw'', Sasha Banks was declared to be out of action due to an injury, reportedly up to two months. However, WWE Women's Champion Charlotte's victory celebration was interrupted by Bayley, who was announced by Mick Foley as the Raw women's division's newest member. Bayley subsequently defeated Brooke<ref name="Raw08222016"/> and then Charlotte in a non-title match on the September 5 episode.<ref name="Raw09052016">{{cite web|date=September 5, 2016|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=9/5 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live TV Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/05/sept5rawresults/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=September 5, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160907203332/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/05/sept5rawresults/|archive-date=September 7, 2016}}</ref> The following week, a triple threat match between Banks, Bayley, and Brooke ended in a double pin for Bayley and Banks,<ref name="Raw09122016">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=9/12 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live TV Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/12/sept12rawresults/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=September 12, 2016|access-date=September 12, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915113034/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/12/sept12rawresults/|archive-date=September 15, 2016}}</ref> turning Charlotte's title defense at Clash of Champions into a triple threat match.<ref name="Raw09192016">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=9/19 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete TV Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/19/sept19rawresults/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=September 19, 2016|access-date=September 19, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160922000423/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/19/sept19rawresults/|archive-date=September 22, 2016}}</ref>

Also, The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray Dudley and D-Von Dudley) announced their retirement, but were first confronted by The Shining Stars (Primo and Epico) and then attacked by Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, who put D-Von through a table.<ref name="Raw08222016"/>

After SmackDown unveiled their new titles on the post-SummerSlam ''SmackDown'', the WWE Women's Championship and WWE Tag Team Championship were subsequently renamed to Raw Women's Championship and Raw Tag Team Championship, respectively. Also, the finals of the Cruiserweight Classic occurred on September 14, 2016, and T. J. Perkins became the inaugural WWE Cruiserweight Champion for the Raw brand.

Following SummerSlam, Sheamus and Cesaro would continue trading victories in their Best of Seven series, with Sheamus winning the next two matches and Cesaro winning the following three. The seventh match was then scheduled for Clash of Champions.<ref name="Raw09192016"/>

Roman Reigns and Rusev continued their rivalry over the latter's United States Championship. On the September 12 episode of ''Raw'', Reigns lost his match thanks to a distraction from Rusev.<ref name="Raw09122016"/> The following week, Rusev was scheduled to defend the title against Reigns at Clash of Champions.<ref name="Raw09192016"/>

=== SmackDown === On the August 23 episode of ''SmackDown'', AJ Styles was declared the No. 1 contender for the WWE World Championship at Backlash. Styles also defeated Dolph Ziggler to prevent him from being inserted into the title match as well.<ref name="SmackDown08232016">{{cite web|last=Parks|first=Greg|title=8/23 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete, Real-Time Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/23/823-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-real-time-report/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 23, 2016|access-date=August 23, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160826065627/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/23/823-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-real-time-report/|archive-date=August 26, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

When Randy Orton spoke about his match against Brock Lesnar and his future, he was interrupted by Bray Wyatt, and the two were scheduled for a match at Backlash.<ref name="SmackDown08232016"/> On August 29, 2016, WWE scheduled a rematch between Lesnar and Orton for a WWE house show on September 24 in Chicago, Illinois,<ref>{{cite web|title=Randy Orton and Brock Lesnar rematch announced for Sept. 24 Live Event in Chicago|url=https://www.wwe.com/article/randy-orton-brock-lesnar-rematch-chicago|work=WWE|date=August 29, 2016|access-date=August 30, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160830023558/https://www.wwe.com/article/randy-orton-brock-lesnar-rematch-chicago|archive-date=August 30, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> where Lesnar defeated Orton.<ref>{{cite news|title=Brock Lesnar defeats Randy Orton in SummerSlam rematch in Chicago|url=https://www.wwe.com/article/brock-lesnar-randy-orton-chicago-rematch-results|work=WWE|access-date=September 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160926160005/https://www.wwe.com/article/brock-lesnar-randy-orton-chicago-rematch-results|author=WWE.com Staff|archive-date=September 26, 2016|date=September 24, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

Also on the following ''SmackDown'', the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship and WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship were unveiled for the brand. SmackDown's six active women were scheduled to compete in a six-pack elimination challenge for the title at Backlash, while a tag team tournament occurred over the next few weeks, culminating in a final match for the tag team titles at Backlash.<ref name="SmackDown08232016"/>

== Results == {{Pro wrestling results table | times = <ref name="SSlam2016">{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=8/21 WWE Summerslam Results – Caldwell's Complete Live Report|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/21/summerslam2016resultsfinal/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 21, 2016|access-date=August 21, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823124530/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/21/summerslam2016resultsfinal/|archive-date=August 23, 2016}}</ref> | note1 = pre | match1 = The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso), American Alpha (Chad Gable and Jason Jordan), and The Hype Bros (Mojo Rawley and Zack Ryder) defeated Breezango (Fandango and Tyler Breeze), The Ascension (Konnor and Viktor), and The Vaudevillains (Aiden English and Simon Gotch) by pinfall | stip1 = 12-man tag team match<ref>{{cite web|last=Benigno|first=Anthony|title=The Usos, American Alpha & The Hype Bros def. Breezango, The Ascension & The Vaudevillains|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/usos-american-alpha-hype-bros-vs-breezango-ascension-vaudevillains-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016}}</ref> | time1 = 14:32 | note2 = pre | match2 = Sami Zayn and Neville defeated The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray Dudley and D-Von Dudley) by pinfall | stip2 = Tag team match<ref>{{cite web|last=Clapp|first=John|title=Sami Zayn & Neville def. The Dudley Boyz|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/sami-zayn-neville-vs-dudley-boyz-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016}}</ref> | time2 = 7:55 | note3 = pre | match3 = Sheamus defeated Cesaro by pinfall | stip3 = Singles match<br />First in the best of seven series<ref>{{cite web|last=Passero|first=Mitch|title=Sheamus def. Cesaro (Best of Seven Series Match No. 1)|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/cesaro-vs-sheamus-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016}}</ref> | time3 = 14:10<ref>{{cite web|last=Benigno|first=Anthony|title=Follow Cesaro and Sheamus' Best of Seven Series with this WWE.com infographic |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/cesaro-sheamus-best-of-seven-infographic|work=WWE|access-date=September 5, 2016}}</ref><references group=Note/> | match4 = Chris Jericho and Kevin Owens defeated Enzo Amore and Big Cass by pinfall | stip4 = Tag team match<ref>{{cite web|last=Laboon|first=Jeff|title=Chris Jericho & Kevin Owens def. Enzo Amore & Big Cass|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/enzo-amore-big-cass-vs-chris-jericho-kevin-owens-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016}}</ref> | time4 = 12:09 | match5 = Charlotte defeated Sasha Banks (c) by pinfall | stip5 = Singles match for the WWE Women's Championship<ref>{{cite web|last=Wortman|first=James|title=Charlotte def. WWE Women's Champion Sasha Banks|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/wwe-womens-champion-sasha-banks-vs-charlotte-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823124711/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/wwe-womens-champion-sasha-banks-vs-charlotte-result|archive-date=August 23, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> | time5 = 13:53 | match6 = The Miz (c) (with Maryse) defeated Apollo Crews by pinfall | stip6 = Singles match for the WWE Intercontinental Championship<ref>{{cite web|last=Melok|first=Bobby|title=Intercontinental Champion The Miz def. Apollo Crews|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/intercontinental-champion-miz-vs-apollo-crews-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016}}</ref> | time6 = 5:46 | match7 = AJ Styles defeated John Cena by pinfall | stip7 = Singles match<ref>{{cite web|last=Adkins|first=Greg|title=AJ Styles def. John Cena|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/john-cena-vs-aj-styles-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823124742/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/john-cena-vs-aj-styles-result|archive-date=August 23, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> | time7 = 23:14 | match8 = Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson defeated The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) (c) (with Jon Stewart) by disqualification | stip8 = Tag team match for the WWE Tag Team Championship<ref>{{cite web|last=Artus|first=Matthew|title=Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson def. WWE Tag Team Champions The New Day via disqualification|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/wwe-tag-team-champions-new-day-vs-gallows-anderson-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016}}</ref> | time8 = 9:11 | match9 = Dean Ambrose (c) defeated Dolph Ziggler by pinfall | stip9 = Singles match for the WWE World Championship<ref>{{cite web|last=Powers|first=Kevin|title=WWE World Champion Dean Ambrose def. Dolph Ziggler|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/wwe-world-champion-dean-ambrose-vs-dolph-ziggler-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016}}</ref> | time9 = 15:17 | match10 = Nikki Bella, Natalya, and Alexa Bliss<ref group=Note>Nikki, returning from injury, was a surprise last-minute replacement for Eva Marie, who was suspended just days before SummerSlam for violating WWE's Wellness Policy.</ref> defeated Becky Lynch, Naomi, and Carmella by pinfall | stip10 = Six-woman tag team match<ref>{{cite web|last=Melok|first=Bobby|title=Nikki Bella, Natalya & Alexa Bliss def. Becky Lynch, Naomi, & Carmella|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/carmella-becky-lynch-naomi-vs-natalya-alexa-bliss-nikki-bella-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823124815/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/carmella-becky-lynch-naomi-vs-natalya-alexa-bliss-nikki-bella-result|archive-date=August 23, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> | time10 = 11:04 | match11 = Finn Bálor defeated Seth Rollins by pinfall | stip11 = Singles match for the inaugural WWE Universal Championship<ref>{{cite web|last=Laboon|first=Jeff|title=Finn Bálor def. Seth Rollins|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/wwe-universal-championship-finn-balor-seth-rollins-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823124832/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/wwe-universal-championship-finn-balor-seth-rollins-result|archive-date=August 23, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> | time11 = 19:24 | match12 = Brock Lesnar (with Paul Heyman) defeated Randy Orton by technical knockout | stip12 = Singles match<ref>{{cite web|last=Benigno|first=Anthony|title=Brock Lesnar def. Randy Orton via TKO|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/brock-lesnar-vs-randy-orton-result|date=August 21, 2016|work=WWE|access-date=August 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823124854/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016/brock-lesnar-vs-randy-orton-result|archive-date=August 23, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> | time12 = 11:51 | caption = }} <references group=Note/>

== References == {{Reflist}}

== External links == * {{Official website|https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2016|SummerSlam Official Website}}

{{2016 WWE Network events}} {{WWEPPV|SummerSlam}}

2016 Category:2016 WWE Network events Category:2016 in New York City Category:Organized events in Brooklyn Category:Professional wrestling shows in New York City Category:2016 WWE pay-per-view events Category:August 2016 in the United States