WWE has loaded SummerSlam 2026 with blockbuster matches. However, Triple H may still have one major surprise left. In the Night One main event, CM Punk will defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes.
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Given this, The Game could use the match to bring back two familiar faces and immediately set up a dream attraction for Night Two. AJ Lee and Brandi Rhodes are the names in question.
The rivalry between Punk and Rhodes has become increasingly personal in recent weeks. What began as a battle over the Undisputed WWE Championship has evolved into a war of words, with both stars questioning each other’s legacy and journey back to the top. The company has deliberately kept the feud centered on a mix of respect and resentment, making it one of the most compelling matches on the SummerSlam card.
That is exactly why AJ Lee’s return would make perfect sense. AJ was closely tied to Punk in his WWE run last year. She then went on hiatus after WrestleMania 42. Also, the former Divas Champion has never hesitated to step in when her husband is pushed to the limit.
Thus, if The American Nightmare appears on the verge of defeating The Second City Saint, AJ Lee could emerge to rally the champion or simply ensure the challenger does not gain an unfair advantage. Her involvement would fit naturally into the current storyline rather than feeling like a random nostalgia cameo.
However, AJ wouldn’t be the only surprise. Seeing the latter at ringside could prompt Brandi Rhodes to make her own return. Throughout Cody Rhodes‘ WWE comeback, Brandi has largely stayed away from television despite being an integral part of his wrestling journey outside the company. Thus, SummerSlam would be the perfect stage to reintroduce her, especially with Cody competing in the biggest match of his current run.
The confrontation practically writes itself. AJ attempts to support Punk, and Brandi comes to The American Nightmare’s aid. If that happens, the two could exchange heated words before breaking into a brawl at ringside. As a result, security would rush out to separate them while the referee restores order. This would allow The Second City Saint and Cody to finish their championship match without either competitor relying on blatant outside interference.
That would protect the credibility of the title bout while creating another headline-worthy moment. Triple H could then capitalize on the fallout the following night. With social media buzzing about the altercation, WWE management could announce a blockbuster dream match for Night Two between AJ Lee and Brandi Rhodes. This would allow both veterans to settle their differences in the ring.
While this angle might seem far-fetched, it is not entirely impossible. Fans will have to wait until SummerSlam Night One to see if Triple H considers this.
Triple H potentially booking Brandi Rhodes’ and AJ Lee’s return at WWE SummerSlam for a dream match would be a masterstroke
If Triple H wants to make SummerSlam 2026 unforgettable, bringing back AJ Lee and Brandi Rhodes could be the perfect move. Their surprise returns during the Undisputed WWE Championship clash between CM Punk and Cody Rhodes would naturally raise the stakes without overshadowing the title match.
AJ supporting Punk and Brandi standing by Cody would fit their respective stories. Meanwhile, a ringside confrontation could seamlessly lead to a blockbuster singles match between the two veterans on Night Two. It would maximize SummerSlam’s two-night format and give fans a dream match they’ve never seen in WWE, creating a memorable weekend-long storyline.
However, this angle is also speculative.
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Edited by Riya Peter
