What better way to kick off this list than with the very first match in SummerSlam history? The British Bulldogs (no relation) and The Fabulous Rougeau Brothers were two of the top teams in the WWF when they clashed for the first time at SummerSlam 1988 and wrestled to a twenty-minute time limit.

For 30 years, SummerSlam has been one of WWE's signature shows.

 

The August event often features hot main events and unique match-ups throughout the midcard. In fact, even with a glut of monthly (and sometimes more than monthly) pay-per-views at the ready, SummerSlam often serves as a great bridge between WrestleMania and Survivor Series.

 

But which matches are the absolute best from the biggest party of the summer? Glad you asked.

 

In counting down the Top 50 SummerSlam Matches, we looked at the following criteria:

 

• How well was the match promoted?

• How memorable was the contest?

• What were the stakes?

• Technically (or however the match was contested), how well does it stack up against other matches of its time period?

 

 

If you'd like to be a part of this conversation, Tweet us at @canadianbulldog using the hashtag #Top50, or leave a comment below.

Ready? Here we go!

Even since the WCW InVasion began in early 2001, Booker T led the charge as WCW World Champion. Unfortunately for him, The Rock returned from Hollywood to defend both himself and the rest of the WWF. At SummerSlam 2001, The Rock defeated Booker, adding the WCW World Title to his accolades.

Ever since WrestleMania XXI, former friends Rey Mysterio and Eddie Guerrero had been at odds. Guerrero upped the ante by telling the world that Rey Mysterio's son Dominick was actually his. The two battled for Dominick's custody in a Ladder Match (of course they did!), with Mysterio keeping his son.

Fun fact: The Ultimate Warrior and Rick Rude battled at two consecutive SummerSlams. However, their first meeting at SummerSlam 1989 was better: Warrior was laser-focused on regaining the Intercontinental Title he'd dropped to Rude at WrestleMania. With Rowdy Roddy Piper's help, Warrior did just that.