WWE SummerSlam 2012: Matches That Will Exceed Expectations

The build for SummerSlam has mostly revolved around the two main feuds. The first one features Brock Lesnar's return to the ring against Triple H, and the other has CM Punk defending his WWE Championship against John Cena and Big Show.

While it's not surprising that those marquee storylines have been the focus, it has forced other battles scheduled for Sunday night to get overlooked. Let's look at some of the other matches on the card that should end up exceeding expectations.

Dolph Ziggler vs. Chris Jericho

Most other months, this would have been a top feud. It features a rising star in Ziggler and one of the most decorated champions of all time in Jericho. They are also two of the best in-ring workers in the business, which should make diehard fans happy.

A Ziggler victory would make the most sense to help him build momentum toward a title run. However, it's impossible to completely count out a Jericho win before he hits the road with his band, followed by Ziggler cashing in his briefcase later in the night.

Either way, it's a match with the potential to steal the show. The best move the WWE could make is letting them go out first, because they will help electrify the crowd for the rest of the night.

Daniel Bryan vs. Kane

After being unsuccessful in his numerous chances to win the WWE title, Bryan slid down a peg and will face off with Kane at SummerSlam. Since the feud hasn't received much air time, expectations are low, and some people will probably be surprised it's even on the card.

That said, Bryan and Kane have worked with each other quite a bit over the past couple months and should have plenty of in-ring chemistry. It's something that is often unnoticed when it comes to putting on an entertaining match.

It would be nice for Kane to pick up a win to help give him some direction after several months of bouncing around for no rhyme or reason. But even if Bryan wins, it should be a terrific match.

The Miz vs. Rey Mysterio

The Miz and Mysterio both have plenty to prove on Sunday night. The Miz has just returned from shooting a movie, and Mysterio was out for nearly a year due to an injury and a wellness suspension. Now, they both want to move back up the ladder quickly.

Even though neither of them has ever been considered an elite pure wrestler, both are each certainly capable of holding their own. Putting on a memorable match would be the first step toward getting back in the main-event scene in the coming months.

Add in the fact the match is for the Intercontinental Championship, and it should easily provide more entertainment value than expected. And that's all fans can really ask for.