WWE: SummerSlam 2002
Despite the overhyped main event--"Next Big Thing" Brock Lesnar vs. the Rock--many will remember SummerSlam 2002 for one reason: the brief, exhilarating return of Shawn Michaels, the Heartbreak Kid, the Showstopper. The 15-year veteran returned to the ring after a four-year absence for a one-night-only appearance that resulted in the type of exhilarating match that the WWE sorely needed. The lead-in story line was solid, if well worn--former "best friend" Triple H turns on Michaels, leading to a nonsanctioned (i.e., hardcore) match--but the match is a bloody, messy, high-flying epic: Michaels shows no rust and Triple H gives one of his most emotional performances. Every other match (except perhaps RVD vs. Chris Benoit) pales in comparison. Sadly, Brock and Rock had to take the ring after Michaels and Triple H, and the results are underwhelming. Perhaps it's Lesnar's fault--his size and lack of charisma recall boring former giants King Kong Bundy or Yokozuna. But in reality, SummerSlam's main event simply came one match too soon.--Dave McCoy