As the WWE Universe prepares for SummerSlam 2024, a change in the structure of the event has fans excited and confused. This year, WWE made the choice to prolong its SummerSlam preview to three hours, causing speculation among many about its overall plan. Since Triple H assumed control of WWE’s creative direction, the company has undergone numerous changes, with this new decision being no exception.
The reasoning behind extended perspectives
In the months before SummerSlam, WWE has been increasing its pre-show lineup for different premium live events (PLEs), beginning with WrestleMania in earlier months. But SummerSlam, scheduled for August 4, marks the biggest change yet. The countdown starts at 4pm ET/9pm BST, giving fans three hours of coverage before the main event begins. Combined with the four-hour main show and the one-hour post-match press conference, viewers will experience eight hours of non-stop WWE action.
The move caused a wave of mixed reactions. For those who immerse themselves in minute-by-minute WWE news, these expanded previews are a dream come true, giving you more time to prepare and wait. However, people are less enthusiastic, and suspect that this is too much, and the excitement of the main event is reduced. In comparison to AEW’s highly popular pay-per-views, some fans questioned whether WWE had misused a technique they had previously criticized.
What to expect during the preview
What are your plans for these three hours? Based on the most recent updates, the preview will not have any competitors, but it will still be full of entertainment. The home team featured Jackie Redmond, Big E, Michael Cole, Pat McAfee, Wade Barrett and Sam Roberts in their all-star lineup. Together, they will guide viewers through backstage interviews, in-depth match play, and explain the storylines to set the stage for the explosive action to come. Confirmed to attend the previous show are some of the biggest names in WWE: Rhea Ripley, Drew McIntyre, Seth Rollins, Damian Priest, Gunther, Cody Rhodes, LA Knight, Logan Paul, Bayley, Nia Jax, Solo Sikoa, Sami Zayn and Braun Breaker . These superstars are expected to provide good promos and insights, thus raising expectations for their matches tonight.
One of the interesting things about this extended preview is its potential impact on WWE’s rivalry with AEW. With the AEW Collision tapings scheduled to start an hour after the SummerSlam pre-show, WWE decided to delay their own pre-show in order to move on to their matches. This isn’t the first time WWE has used strategic timing to criticize AEW’s events, but it seems like this situation will carry more weight considering the closing time of both events.
“AEW PPVs are too long” 😭 pic.twitter.com/k2FicNnJdl
— Drainmaker 🌧️ 💵 (@DrainBamager) July 30, 2024
Miz takes the stage in Cleveland
To add to the excitement, WWE announced that The Miz will host the pre-show and main event at Cleveland Browns Stadium. The A-list star revealed details on the new episode of Monday Night Raw after Casey Kelly asked a tough question. Miz, the perennial performer, expressed his desire to power his hometown crowd, while R Truth criticized his roots. Miz was quick to explain that even though he lives in Los Angeles now, Cleveland will always be his home.
It is hoped that Miz’s role as host will increase the excitement and networking of the event. Known for his wit and undeniable charm, Miz is expected to keep the momentum going throughout the show, keeping fans engaged from start to finish.
Is this a calculated risk or is it fun?
As the countdown to SummerSlam 2024 continues, the decision to delay the previous show remains a point of contention among fans and analysts. On the one hand, the extra time allows WWE to dig deeper into the storyline and provide a better experience for die-hard fans who care about every detail. On the other hand, there is a risk of fatigue, especially for casual viewers who may not be able to run an eight-hour marathon. WWE’s strategy is multifaceted. By giving more information, they will serve the most loyal members of the WWE Universe while putting them in better competition with AEW. Yet, it is still uncertain if this risk will result in audience approval and ratings success.
Ultimately, SummerSlam 2024 is set to be a memorable occasion, with the general preview enhancing the overall event. Whether you embrace change or doubt its effects, one thing is certain: WWE is unafraid to innovate and explore new ideas in the evolving landscape of pro wrestling. As we near the important day, Cleveland will be under close scrutiny to assess the outcome of this daring experiment.
