The Money in the Bank ladder match has become a staple in WWE, providing thrilling moments and unforgettable encounters that have left fans on the edge of their seats.
This high-stakes bout offers a unique opportunity for Superstars to secure a contract for a championship match at any time and place of their choosing. Throughout the years, we have witnessed numerous incredible Money in the Bank matches, but only a select few have truly stood out as the greatest of all time.
In this feature, we will delve into the history of the Money in the Bank concept and highlight the five greatest matches in its illustrious history. From heart-stopping ladder spots to surprise cash-ins, these matches have it all. We will explore the innovative displays of athleticism, the intense rivalries that fueled the battles, and the memorable moments that have etched these matches into the annals of WWE history.
Join us as we relive the excitement and unpredictability of the Money in the Bank ladder match, featuring some of the biggest names in professional wrestling. From the inaugural match in 2005 to the most recent showdowns, we will examine the incredible stories and jaw-dropping moments that have solidified these matches as the pinnacle of ladder match excellence. Get ready to climb the ladder of excitement as we countdown the five greatest Money in the Bank matches ever witnessed in WWE.
Money in the Bank (MITB) matches have become one of the most anticipated events in the world of professional wrestling. This unique concept, introduced by WWE in 2005, involves a ladder match where multiple wrestlers battle it out for a contract that guarantees them a championship opportunity at any time, within a year. Over the years, the MITB concept has produced some of the most memorable and jaw-dropping matches in WWE history. In this article, we will explore the top Money in the Bank matches that have captivated audiences and left a lasting impact on the industry.
5. Wrestlemania 21
The WrestleMania 21 Money in the Bank ladder match was a historic and groundbreaking moment in WWE history. Taking place on April 3, 2005, this match revolutionized the concept of ladder matches and introduced the Money in the Bank contract to the wrestling world. Six talented and diverse superstars competed in this inaugural match, including Edge, Chris Jericho, Chris Benoit, Shelton Benjamin, Kane, and Christian. Each competitor brought their unique skills and styles to the ring, creating a thrilling and unforgettable contest. The match was filled with high-flying maneuvers, daring ladder spots, and intense rivalries.
From Shelton Benjamin’s awe-inspiring athleticism to Chris Jericho’s cunning tactics, every participant showcased their abilities in their quest to secure the coveted contract. In the end, it was Edge who emerged victorious, becoming the first-ever Mr. Money in the Bank. His victory marked the beginning of a new era, as the contract guaranteed him a championship opportunity at any time within the following year.
This innovative concept added an element of surprise and unpredictability to WWE programming. The WrestleMania 21 Money in the Bank ladder match set a precedent for future ladder matches and became a staple of WWE pay-per-views. It provided rising stars with a platform to showcase their talents and propelled them into the main event scene. This match not only solidified the legacy of the Money in the Bank concept but also contributed to the overall evolution of ladder matches in professional wrestling.
It will always be remembered as a pivotal moment in WrestleMania history and an enduring symbol of the excitement and career-changing potential that ladder matches bring to sports entertainment.
4. Wrestlemania 22
Six incredibly talented and diverse superstars stepped into the ring for this unforgettable match. The participants included Rob Van Dam, Bobby Lashley, Matt Hardy, Ric Flair, Finlay, and Shelton Benjamin. Each competitor brought their unique skill set and style, creating a match filled with high-flying maneuvers, intense brawling, and heart-stopping ladder spots.
In the end, it was Rob Van Dam who emerged as the victor, scaling the ladder and capturing the coveted Money in the Bank contract. This triumph marked a turning point in Van Dam’s career, propelling him to new heights and solidifying his place among the WWE elite.
The WrestleMania 22 Money in the Bank ladder match not only showcased the incredible athleticism and determination of its participants, but it also set a precedent for future ladder matches. The match’s success led to the creation of the annual Money in the Bank pay-per-view event, where superstars from both Raw and SmackDown vie for the opportunity to secure a championship match contract.
3. Men’s Money In The Bank Ladder Match 2021
The Men’s Money in the Bank ladder match in 2021 was an exhilarating and highly anticipated bout that showcased the incredible athleticism and determination of its participants. Drew McIntyre, John Morrison, Ricochet, Riddle, Big E, and Kevin Owens all vied for the coveted Money in the Bank contract, which guaranteed a future opportunity at the world championship.
The match was filled with jaw-dropping moments, high-risk maneuvers, and intense ladder spots that had the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats. Each competitor brought their A-game, utilizing ladders as weapons and climbing to dizzying heights in their quest for victory. The match was a true test of endurance and strategy, as superstars battled against each other and the unforgiving steel structures.
In the end, it was Big E who emerged triumphant, securing the Money in the Bank contract and solidifying himself as a top contender for a world championship reign. His victory was met with thunderous applause and excitement from the crowd, as he celebrated his hard-fought win.
The Men’s Money in the Bank ladder match in 2021 will be remembered as a standout moment in WWE history. It showcased the incredible talent and determination of its participants, provided unforgettable moments, and set the stage for future championship opportunities. Big E’s victory marked a significant milestone in his career and left fans eagerly anticipating the moment he would cash in his contract for a chance to become a World Champion.
2. Women’s Money In The Bank Ladder Match 2018
The Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match in 2018 was a highly anticipated event in WWE. Eight talented women competed for the chance to become Ms. Money in the Bank and earn a contract that guaranteed them a title shot at any time within the next year.
The match featured a mix of newcomers and returning participants. Lana, Ember Moon, Sasha Banks, Naomi, and Alexa Bliss made their debut in the match, while Charlotte Flair, Natalya, and Becky Lynch were veterans from the previous year’s match.
The bout was filled with thrilling moments and intense ladder spots. Each competitor showcased their athleticism and determination as they fought their way up the ladder to retrieve the coveted briefcase. Natalya even threw a ladder into the ring, only to have Becky Lynch kick it out.
In the end, it was Alexa Bliss who emerged as the winner, becoming the second Miss Money in the Bank in WWE history. With her victory, Bliss solidified her status as a top female heel in the company and secured a title shot that she could cash in at any time.
1. Money In The Bank Ladder Match 2016
In the 2016 Money in the Bank ladder match, several top WWE superstars competed, including Kevin Owens, Cesaro, Chris Jericho, Sami Zayn, Alberto Del Rio, and Dean Ambrose. These talented individuals showcased their athleticism, resilience, and determination as they fought tooth and nail to climb the ladder and secure the coveted briefcase.
The ladder match was filled with high-risk maneuvers, breathtaking spots, and intense moments that kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Each competitor displayed their unique skills and innovative ways to gain an advantage over their opponents. From power moves to acrobatic feats, the match was a true spectacle of athleticism and showmanship.
Ultimately, it was Dean Ambrose who emerged victorious, capturing the Money in the Bank briefcase. This victory signified a turning point in Ambrose’s career, as he now possessed the contract that guaranteed him a championship opportunity at any given time. Little did we know that Ambrose’s cash-in would occur later that same night, when he dethroned Seth Rollins to become the WWE World Heavyweight Champion.