7 Returns At WWE SummerSlam 2026

WWE

WWE SummerSlam 2026 has taken shape and looks like it will be one of the biggest premium live events of the year.

While there will be plenty of action across the two nights, fans could see some memorable moments in the form of absent stars making their return to the company.

Whether it be thanks to injury or a hiatus, there may be some notable comebacks to WWE in the coming weeks and months.

Here are seven potential returns at WWE SummerSlam 2026.

7. Rhea Ripley

At WWE Clash In Italy 2026, Rhea Ripley defeated Jade Cargill to retain the WWE Women’s Championship.

During the course of this bout, Ripley suffered an unfortunate knee injury that has sidelined her in the weeks following.

This led to WWE announcing a five-way ladder match to determine an interim champion for the SummerSlam premium live event.

Rhea Ripley making her return to see who will be the interim champion makes a lot of sense and would set the stage for the title unification match to come.

6. Becky Lynch

After losing the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship to Sol Ruca at Clash In Italy 2026, many fans were wondering what was next for Becky Lynch.

While she went on to compete in the first round of the Queen of the Ring tournament, her loss in the June 8 match was the last time we saw ‘The Man.’

Lynch remains one of the biggest stars on the WWE roster that should always have a prominent story whenever she is around.

Given the stage of WWE SummerSlam 2026, it would be a great way for Lynch to make her return and position herself back in the title scene again.

5. Bronson Reed

Ahead of WWE Elimination Chamber 2026, Bronson Reed suffered a torn bicep injury that has had him on the shelf ever since.

This has led to The Vision being weakened with the absence of Reed and other injuries to the group.

With The Vision gaining momentum, Bron Breakker, Austin Theory, Maxxine Dupri and Logan Paul could further cement this new era for the stable by adding Reed back into the fold.

Resuming his role with the group, Reed would immediately come into a featured spot on WWE Raw following SummerSlam 2026.

4. Stephanie Vaquer

At WWE WrestleMania 42 Night One, Liv Morgan defeated Stephanie Vaquer to win the WWE Women’s World Championship.

While she still had her sights on regaining the gold back, ‘La Primera’ has been out of action with an AC sprain in her shoulder.

Recovering from this injury, Vaquer has been forced to watch Morgan walk around with the title she defended proudly without putting the gold on the line once.

Vaquer returning at WWE SummerSlam 2026 could see her even the odds with The Judgment Day to give IYO SKY the edge to get by Liv Morgan to win the WWE Women’s World Championship on the show.

3. Drew McIntyre

Another WWE star that fans have not seen on the company’s television in the weeks since is Drew McIntyre.

‘The Scottish Warrior’ has been one of the most prominent and heavily featured stars on the WWE roster today.

After being away from WWE TV for the past four months, SummerSlam 2026 might prove to be the ideal setting for McIntyre’s return.

McIntyre making his way back at WWE SummerSlam 2026 might open the door for him to insert himself in the Undisputed WWE Championship match between Cody Rhodes and CM Punk.

2. Randy Orton

Following his loss to Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42, Randy Orton has not been seen on the company’s programming in the months since.

On the road to Mania, Orton turned heel and targeted his former friend Rhodes on several different occasions.

With his absence lasting months, fans are wondering when Orton will return to the company.

Considering Cody’s huge match against CM Punk at the event, it feels like Orton would make his presence felt back in the company at the WWE SummerSlam 2026 PLE.

1. The Rock

WWE fans have not seen The Rock in the company since his involvement in John Cena’s heel turn at Elimination Chamber 2026.

‘The Final Boss’ has been one of the most impactful characters in wrestling in recent years.

Heading into WWE SummerSlam 2026, there has been a lot of conversation regarding the struggling ticket sales for the event.

Wanting to bring some attention to the show coming out of it, WWE could have The Rock make his return at SummerSlam 2026 where he will immediately make this evening unforgettable.

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