10 Greatest Superstars In WWE SummerSlam History

4. Randy Orton

Brock Lesnar SummerSlam
WWE.com

Just months after a star-making performance against Cactus Jack at Backlash 2004, Randy Orton rolled into Toronto to challenge the world heavyweight champion, Chris Benoit. All eyes were on the third-generation star as he headlined an event against one of the greatest in-ring technicians to ever lace a pair of boots.

Orton not only kept up with Benoit but actually reversed 'The Rabid Wolverine's late attempt at a Crippler Crossface into an RKO that netted him his first world title. The image of Orton standing on the ropes, bending over and kissing the title, remains one of the most iconic in event history.

Luckily for fans, it was not the last memory 'The Viper' would create on that stage. In 2011, Orton established himself one of the greatest superstars in SummerSlam history.

On that night, 'The Viper' entered the summertime spectacular as the top contender for the World Heavyweight Championship and defeated Christian in an extraordinary match that served as the culmination of their underrated rivalry.

Orton would go on to cash in Money in the Bank and win the WWE Championship in 2013 and headline the show three years later against Brock Lesnar. While most save their best for WrestleMania, the third-generation star has focused his attention to bringing his best at SummerSlam.

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Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.