WWE SummerSlam 2013: Unsung Heroes That Saved Sunday's Undercard

The 2013 edition of SummerSlam was well planned and executed perfectly, but there are still a few unsung heroes that helped ensure the undercard of the pay-per-view was worthy of the company’s second-biggest show of the year.

All of the following stars shined on Sunday night in their roles and helped make this one of the best PPVs of the year.

Bray Wyatt

There was a distinct lack of hype surrounding the ring of fire match between Kane and Bray Wyatt because no one knew what to expect from the battle, but the entire story was performed well and came off very entertaining.

This was not the best technical match the WWE Universe will ever see, but with Wyatt winning his PPV debut and the entire family getting involved despite the fire keeping them out, the angle was furthered in the most evil way possible.

Add in the post-match assault and the abduction of Kane—likely to be brainwashed by the Wyatt Family only to return as a heel and a member of the clan—and this undercard bout was worthy of the SummerSlam stage.

Cody Rhodes

After engaging in a fierce war over the last month since the Money in the Bank PPV, Cody Rhodes was finally able to find redemption against Damien Sandow by getting the victory at SummerSlam.

This win will set up a rematch at Night of Champions, likely with the briefcase on the line.

While Sandow would win that match if it comes to fruition—the WWE is still trying to build the Money in the Bank winner as a legitimate championship contender—Rhodes showcased how much talent he possesses in the ring.

Both men told an interesting story in the match, and with Rhodes trying to make Sandow look strong even with the knowledge that he would get the victory, the young star proved his worth to the company once again.

Rob Van Dam

The WWE took a risk signing Rob Van Dam after his lackluster stint in TNA Wrestling, but the veteran has turned the switch since making the return to the company, stealing the show almost every time he hits the ring.

Add in the fact that he went one-on-one with The Shield’s Dean Ambrose, and this was undoubtedly one of the best kickoff matches in the history of pre-shows.

Van Dam can still shine in the ring and has the drawing power to get the fans excited.

SummerSlam was the perfect chance for RVD to showcase why he is still one of the best wrestlers in the world, and with little expectations surrounding the kickoff show, the veteran helped build genuine interest in the event.

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