League: WWE Sport: Wrestling Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

WWE Saturday Night's Main Event XXII features classic rivalries and drama

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 1:48 AM

Last updated Jul 30, 2026

WWE Saturday Night's Main Event XXII features classic rivalries and drama

Summary

On July 30, 1989, WWE aired its 12th episode of Saturday Night's Main Event, building anticipation for Summerslam that year. Hulk Hogan defended the WWF Championship against The Honky Tonk Man in the opener, while a highly charged match between Randy Savage and Brutus Beefcake showcased intense rivalries in the ring. The bout escalated when Zeus interfered, demonstrating his strength against both wrestlers. The tag team match saw the Brain Busters upset Demolition, ending their lengthy title reign in a dramatic finish. This event was instrumental in generating high pay-per-view buys for Summerslam 1989.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Hogan defended the WWF Championship against The Honky Tonk Man.
•Savage faced Beefcake in a heated rivalry match.
•Zeus's interference added chaos to the main event.
•The Brain Busters upset Demolition, ending their 478-day reign.
•Summerslam 1989 experienced a boost in pay-per-view buys after this event.

Latest Updates

1:48 AMYahoo Sports — On This Day: Taking a look back at WWE Saturday Night's Main Event XXII

What they're saying

"
Thirty-seven years ago today, World Wrestling Entertainment (then known as the WWF) broadcast its 12th episode of Saturday Night's Main Event and offered wrestling fans a master class when it came to writing exciting television and publicizing an upcoming pay-per-view; in this case, Summerslam 1989.
— Yahoo Sports

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