3 Mistakes WWE made before SummerSlam 2025

The final episode of SmackDown before SummerSlam 2025 delivered several intriguing moments.

While the episode had solid action, there were a few decisions that didn’t make much sense.

WWE made some noticeable mistakes in this go-home SmackDown before SummerSlam. Let’s take a look at the biggest ones:

3. Aleister Black vs Damian Priest ending in a DQ

The hard-hitting match between Aleister Black and Damian Priest ended in a disappointing disqualification after a chair shot. Given the intensity and only four matches on the card, a clean or creative finish would’ve made more impact and satisfied fans.

2. John Cena’s emotional face turn

John Cena admitted his mistake teaming with The Rock and turned face, but the emotional moment should’ve closed the show, not opened it.

1. Randy Orton missing from Jelly Roll's build-up

WWE teased a big tag match, but Randy Orton didn’t appear in Jelly Roll’s training segment—hurting the story and team chemistry.

John Cena iconic SummerSlam matches