Liv Morgan Defends Title at WWE SummerSlam 2026 Amid Rhea Ripley's Injury

The opening match of WWE SummerSlam 2026 featured Women's World Champion Liv Morgan defending her title against IYO SKY, the Queen of the Ring winner. Morgan faced criticism for not defending her championship in the 100 days leading up to the event, following her victory at WrestleMania 42.

During a recap on Wrestling Observer Radio, analysts Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez discussed the match, with Alvarez suggesting that Morgan should have lost her title. Meltzer countered that Morgan's victory was significant, emphasizing her status as one of WWE's top female stars alongside Rhea Ripley.

While Morgan retained her title, an interim championship is set to be contested in a five-woman ladder match on the second night of SummerSlam. Ripley, who is unable to compete due to a slight meniscus tear, has not been stripped of her title despite her absence.