A new report from Fightful Select ahead of SummerSlam stated that the planned finish "throughout much of the week" was for Randy Orton and Jelly Roll to win the match. However, at some point before bell time, the decision was made to have the heel team of McIntyre and Paul go over instead.

On the heels of an explosive two-night SummerSlam premium live event, featuring a stunning Money in the Bank cash-in and the shocking return of a former champion many never thought they would seen in a WWE ring again,

Cody Rhodes reclaimed the undisputed WWE championship, Brock Lesnar squashed John Cena and Seth Rollins claimed another world championship at the expense of longtime rival CM Punk. While WrestleMania is often a spiritual season finale, SummerSlam presented a clearer direction for the coming months.