3 Surprise returns that would instantly improve the WWE SummerSlam card 2026

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This listicle will look at three surprise returns that would instantly elevate WWE SummerSlam 2026.

#3. Randy Orton

Few superstars receive the kind of reaction that Randy Orton does when his music hits. The Viper has been absent from WWE television for months, and his absence has been felt across the SmackDown landscape.

Recent rumors have suggested that Orton could return before SummerSlam, even though the company has yet to officially confirm anything. His comeback would immediately add another marquee attraction to the event. Orton doesn’t even need a lengthy build to generate excitement. One RKO out of nowhere is enough to remind fans why he remains one of the company’s biggest attractions.

Several storylines could accommodate The Viper instantly. Cody Rhodes would be an obvious option given their WrestleMania history. Thus, if Cody survives another championship challenge, Randy Orton could return after the match and remind The American Nightmare that unfinished business still exists.

Even if WWE doesn’t book Orton in a match, simply having him appear during one of the night’s biggest bouts would create the type of viral moment SummerSlam is known for.

#2. CM Punk

CM Punk has been absent since losing the World Heavyweight Championship to Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42. However, reports continue to suggest that the company is planning his return on Monday on RAW despite speculation surrounding his hiatus.

If Punk returns before SummerSlam, the event instantly gains another main-event-level attraction. The biggest advantage of bringing Punk back is that he already has multiple ready-made rivalries. The Second City Saint teased unfinished business with Cody Rhodes before stepping away from WWE television. Thus, leaving another blockbuster program on the table.

A surprise appearance doesn’t necessarily have to lead to an immediate match. CM Punk could interrupt a promo segment, attack one of WWE’s biggest stars, or even confront Paul Heyman amid the ongoing Vision storyline.

SummerSlam has often been the launchpad for the company’s biggest storylines heading into Survivor Series and beyond. Few names are better suited for that role than CM Punk. His return would instantly become one of the most talked-about moments of the night, heading to The Biggest Party of the Summer.

#1. WWE veteran The Rock

No return would overshadow the rest of the SummerSlam card quite like The Rock. The Final Boss has always operated on his own schedule. Thus, making every appearance feel like a genuine blockbuster. WWE has repeatedly demonstrated that when The Rock returns, the entire direction of the company changes overnight.

Even if The Final Boss doesn’t wrestle immediately, his presence alone transforms the event into must-see television. The Rock could target Cody Rhodes. Their rivalry has never truly disappeared from the company’s long-term storytelling. Hence, another confrontation would instantly dominate headlines.

Also, there’s the possibility that The Rock doesn’t align with anyone. Instead, he could simply arrive after the night’s biggest match, remind everyone that he still has unfinished business, and leave fans wondering who his real target is.

That kind of cliffhanger has become one of WWE’s signature storytelling devices, especially when involving megastars. Unlike many surprise returns that primarily excite hardcore fans, The Rock’s comeback resonates far beyond the wrestling audience. His mainstream appeal generates enormous media attention, attracts casual viewers, and makes every PLE feel significantly larger.

If Triple H wants SummerSlam 2026 to close with a moment that fans will remember for years, there may be no bigger option than The Rock’s return. His return would not only improve the card but also redefine the company’s direction heading into the remainder of 2026.