10 Positives Heading Into WWE SummerSlam 2016

Of course, there’s been one notable exception to the brand split—or rather, two notable exceptions; Randy Orton and Brock Lesnar.

I know a lot of people initially criticised the decision to allow these guys to appear on both shows, but for me it was handled in such a way that made it perfectly acceptable. Randy’s appearance was totally unscheduled, offering a moment of genuine surprise as he emerged from under the ring.

And given that Lesnar’s appearances these days are usually hyped to death, his appearance on SmackDown was hardly expected, and the presence of security at least reinforced the idea that he wasn’t supposed to be there.

Plus, it was just a one-time thing—since then, both guys have appeared exclusively on the shows to which they were drafted. But the feud hasn’t necessarily suffered as a result. Instead, we’ve had this awesome cross-show rivalry brew, in which a war by proxy has been raged on Heath Slater, and Orton’s taunts on SmackDown this week only further stoked the fire.

All in all, I’d say that’s a pretty great way to build a cross-promotional rivalry. And not only that, I’d say it’s been a pretty great way to build the entire PPV.

Do let me know in the comments below if you disagree with any of the points, though. Or, if you’re a fan of looking on the brightside, feel free to share any other positives you may have to add as we head into this year’s SummerSlam.