SummerSlam 2016: The Miz v Apollo Crews

Apollo Crews has quickly emerged as one of The New Era’s most dynamic Superstars, but at SummerSlam he will have his chance to garner more than just bragging rights when he challenges Intercontinental Champion The Miz for the title.

Crews moved into the position of No. 1 contender after prevailing in a New Era Triple Threat Match against fellow young lions Baron Corbin and Kalisto on the Aug. 2 episode of SmackDown Live. The A-Lister then wasted no time setting a personal tone to the SummerSlam showdown, attacking Crews after his big triumph.

While The Miz is intent on preserving his Intercontinental Title reign (the fifth of his storied career), Crews is focused on gaining his first championship. With jump-out-of-the-building leaping ability, scary strength and plenty of fighting spirit, it’s little wonder the boulder-shouldered Superstar from Stone Mountain, Ga., has been called a five-tool player.

Yet, can Crews’ raw, physical gifts match up to whatever game-plan the veteran Miz devises for Aug. 21? With the rule-bending Maryse by his side, The A-Lister is almost as resourceful as he is cocky, and he has managed to keep hold of the Intercontinental Championship since April, surviving run-ins with the likes of Cesaro, Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens.

Will Hollywood’s favorite couple stay golden following The Biggest Event of the Summer? Or will Crews capture the prestigious Intercontinental Title — an achievement that would signal a breakthrough for the rising star of WWE’s New Era?