Cardi B’s Memorable Hosting Debut at WWE SummerSlam
Cardi B took center stage as the host for WWE’s SummerSlam event, held this year at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium. The weekend-long spectacle featured the rapper’s energetic presence on the first night, combining her flair with the high-octane wrestling atmosphere. While fans and commentators wondered if Cardi might step into the ring herself to confront WWE Women’s World Champion Naomi, with whom she had exchanged fiery messages on social media before the event, she chose to stay firmly in her hosting role, engaging with the audience and even playfully teasing comedian Druski during the show.
The rapper’s hit single “Outside” was the official anthem for SummerSlam, setting the tone for an event that was historic in more ways than one. Cardi kicked off the night by entering the ring to preview new music, presumably from her forthcoming album “Am I the Drama?” Addressing the crowd and viewers at home, she declared, “We’re live from the Tri-State area, making history tonight with the first-ever two-day SummerSlam event. This is something people will be talking about for years to come.”
Backstage, Cardi received pointers from WWE’s Chief Content Officer, Triple H, before the show began. The evening’s opening moments included a stirring performance of “God Bless America” by country singer Breland. One of the night’s notable wrestling debuts was Jelly Roll, who teamed with Randy Orton in his first-ever match, though their team fell short when Logan Paul secured the pin. Wrestling legend Bret “Hitman” Hart praised Jelly Roll’s bold move, encouraging others to chase their dreams with similar courage.
In the lead-up to SummerSlam, a heated feud simmered between Cardi and Naomi. The two traded sharp remarks online, with Cardi threatening to shave Naomi’s head to use her hair for a wig. Naomi fired back with equal intensity, warning that things might come to a head at the event. In an interview, Naomi made it clear she wasn’t taking the threats lightly and suggested a confrontation could be imminent.
Despite the bravado on social media, Cardi admitted after meeting some of WWE’s female wrestlers that she had second thoughts. “I talked a lot of smack for a couple of weeks, but these women are tough,” she confessed. “They’re bigger than I expected, so I’m rethinking some things.”
Cardi’s role at SummerSlam highlights a growing partnership between WWE and hip-hop culture. Travis Scott’s previous appearances at WWE events reflect this trend, and WWE’s Intercontinental Champion, “Dirty” Dom Mysterio, welcomed the crossover. “It’s great to have celebrities involved. It brings more attention to the product,” he said. Bret Hart echoed this sentiment, saying he appreciates the addition of hip-hop personalities to wrestling shows.
Veteran wrestler Ron “The Truth” Killings noted that many of the hip-hop stars who show up at WWE events are genuine fans. He described the longstanding connection between wrestling and hip-hop as a natural fusion that enriches the entertainment experience. “When these artists come to our shows, they often relive their childhoods and become lifelong fans,” Killings explained.
Dom Mysterio’s girlfriend, Liv Morgan, expressed excitement about the possibility of collaborating with Cardi, whether in a match or a tag team. She sees the relationship between hip-hop and wrestling as a bridge that helps bring new eyes to both worlds. “It’s cool that we get to share the spotlight with artists like Cardi,” she said.
During the event, WWE star Jade Cargill, a vocal Cardi supporter, competed for the Women’s Championship. Cardi enthusiastically cheered her entrance, and Cargill praised WWE’s choice in bringing Cardi aboard. “She’s fearless and wild, just like us. It’s all about pushing boundaries and giving it your all,” Cargill remarked.
SummerSlam was full of surprises beyond Cardi’s hosting. Seth Rollins made an unexpected comeback to claim the World Heavyweight Championship after being sidelined with an injury. Brock Lesnar also returned dramatically after a two-year break, delivering a brutal attack on John Cena, who had recently lost his title. Cena’s symbolic passing of the torch to Cody Rhodes in the second night’s main event marked a new chapter for WWE.