Despite the controversial conclusion to the 26th annual SummerSlam, held on Aug. 18, Daniel Bryan dethroned John Cena for the WWE Championship.
Although fans were expecting one of his signature moves such as the ‘Yes Lock’ or ‘Small Package,” the technician affectionately known as “Goatface” launched a flying ‘Shining Wizard’ to knock out Cena before special guest referee Triple H counted the pin.
As the pyrotechnics exploded and confetti sprinkled throughout Los Angeles’ Staples Center, Randy Orton crashed the party, threatening to cash in his “Money in the Bank” contract, guaranteeing him a shot at the title whenever he chooses.
Daring “the Viper” to strike, Bryan was stabbed in the back by Triple H who Pedigreed the new champion and invited Orton to make the cover for the victory.
In the grudge match of the summer, Brock Lesnar successfully defended the honor of his agent Paul Heyman by pulverizing Heyman’s former friend CM Punk.
Since it was a no disqualification bout, Lesnar smashed Punk with a steel chair, Punk escaped the onslaught with a low blow and Heyman interfered to prevent his associate from tapping out to the Anaconda Vice.
Unfortunately for the evil genius, Punk locked Heyman in the submission before the “Beast Incarnate” hit an F-5 on a chair for the win.
Also on the card, Bray Wyatt and his followers destroyed Kane in a Ring of Fire Match.
Cody Rhodes defeated his former partner Damian Sandow.
Christian gave up to World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio’s armbar.
Natalya forced Brie Bella to submit to the Sharpshooter.
Dolph Ziggler and Kaitlyn beat Big E. Langston and A.J. Lee.
In the pre-show, U.S. Champion Dean Ambrose retained the title after being disqualified due to The Shield attacking Rob Van Dam.
