PARKS’S TAKE: A tale of two championships: Summerslam’s Mirror Universe title bouts

At Summerslam, Brock Lesnar defends his Universal Title. Lesnar, a once-loved figure in WWE, has become hated by the fans for his lengthy hiatus. His matches have been criticized of late for being one-dimensional. He has one foot out the door, headed to UFC, though an eventual return to the company at some point is likely.

Roman Reigns challenges for the Universal Title at Summerslam. Reigns, booked as a babyface, often gets booed by a large portion of the fan base that believes his character is inauthentic. Though he seems like the future face of WWE, his losses have piled up in an effort by WWE to make it seem like he’s not pre-ordained for his spot. Severe damage has been done to both he and Lesnar since Wrestlemania; few appear to be looking forward to this match. Those that are looking forward to it are doing so in the hopes that it ends the Lesnar vs. Reigns feud once and for all.

At Summerslam, A.J. Styles defends his WWE Title. Styles, a once-hated figure in WWE, has become loved by the fans for his weekly presence on Smackdown, so much so that he’s nicknamed the show “The House That A.J. Styles Built.” His matches have been lauded for being multi-dimensional. While not retiring any time soon, Styles is a guy who gives the impression that he’ll end his career in WWE.

Samoa Joe challenges for the WWE Title at Summerslam. Joe, booked as a heel, often gets cheered by a large portion of the fan base that believes his character is authentic. He’s been an underrated asset in WWE, though his wins have begun to pile up in preparation for this title opportunity. Styles and Joe are both on an upward trajectory in the company; many appear to be looking forward to the match. Those that are looking forward to it are doing so in the hopes that this could be a multi-month feud that zooms into the fall.

Greg Parks hosts the “Wrestling Night in America” Livecast every Sunday night on PWTorchlivecast.com. Read additional columns from him at PWTorchVIP.com. Follow him on Twitter @gregmparks. Comments, questions and feedback are welcome, and can be sent to g_man9784@yahoo.com.