Most memorable SummerSlam main events in WWE history - ESPN

SummerSlam has been a WWE staple event since 1988. Some of WWE's most iconic matches have occurred at SummerSlam, including Bret Hart vs. his brother, Owen, in a classic steel cage match (1994), the first TLC match (2000), Shawn Michaels' in-ring return against Triple H (2002) and CM Punk vs. Brock Lesnar (2013).

However, those matches weren't slotted as the main events.

As we count down to the 39th annual SummerSlam on Saturday and Sunday, we examine some of the most memorable main-event matches in the history of WWE's «biggest party of the summer.»

The first-ever SummerSlam main event was a historic clash that perfectly captured this era in the WWE. With Hogan and Savage as the company's top babyfaces, their alliance had a super team feel, especially given their chemistry and a growing tension that would culminate in the duo's 1989 breakup.

On the other side, Andre the Giant and DiBiase stood as top heels. Jesse Ventura also served as the special guest referee, giving the match the aura of an all-timer.

The finish saw Savage's then-wife Miss Elizabeth climb onto the apron as a distraction to the heel duo, shifting the momentum in favor of Hogan and Savage. They capitalized, with Hogan hitting his signature leg drop on DiBiase, and although the heel-aligned Ventura hesitated to count the pin, Savage forced Ventura's hand down for the win. The match had everything: good vs. evil, huge personalities, crowd energy and a finish that made fans feel part of something truly special.

The 1992 SummerSlam event was the first premium live event held outside of North America at London's Wembley Stadium.

Hometown hero British Bulldog challenged his brother-in-law, Bret Hart, for the Intercontinental Championship in a main event that