Top 5 best non-ladder Money in the Bank PLE matches
Check out the top five greatest non-ladder Money in the Bank PLE matches of all time.
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Greatest non-ladder MITB matches (via WWE)
Money in the Bank has become a pivotal PLE and stipulation for WWE in the past few years. With two guaranteed ladder matches each year, the excitement generated during this time is unfathomable. In fact, many believe that the event has become a part of the promotion’s Big 5, in addition to Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series.
The Money in the Bank winners then go on to create anticipating surrounding their eventual cash ins, which has provided few of the greatest moments in history. Although the namesake ladder matches are the main attractions, the other matches have stolen the show on quite the few occasions. With that said, here are the five best non-ladder matches at the Money in the Bank PLE:
#5 John Cena vs. Kevin Owens-Money in the Bank 2015
The debut of Kevin Owens remains arguably the greatest NXT call-up to date. The Prizefighter walked in and defeated John Cena clean in his first match on the main roster. The two would square off in a rematch at the Money in the Bank PPV. With Cena in the best phase of his in-ring career and Owens at his peak, this turned out to be the match of the night.
Despite bringing out the best in their respective repertoires, both men failed to put an end to the bout. In the end, Cena reversed a Popup Powerbomb into a Springboard Stunner followed by an AA to avenge his loss. Needless to say, this was a career-defining performance by Owens while The Franchise Player continued his iconic US Championship run.
#4 Seth Rollins vs. AJ Styles-Money in the Bank 2019
This match was a 20-minute barn burner between two of the best wrestlers of their generation. After beating Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 35, Seth Rollins’ first Universal title defense couldn’t have come against a better opponent. And he showcased why the company put faith in him. AJ Styles was still in his prime following a strong 2018.
A thrilling bout full of reversals and big moves was a spectacle to behold. Moreover, the near falls had the crowd on its feet for the majority of the bout. Without doubt, the highlight of the match was the Curb Stomp to Styles Clash counter, which the former Shield member kicked out of. At the end, Rollins was able to deliver his finishing move and emerge victorious.
#3 Roman Reigns vs. Edge-Money in the Bank 2021
The first WWE PLE took place after the pandemic, and these two delivered in the main event. Similar to most of Roman Reigns’ title defenses, the match builds slowly. The Tribal Chief brings out the best in his character, while Edge continues his strong run after returning from injury. With a hot crowd and back-and-forth action, the entire bout seemed worth the wait. The closing stretch was intense, with the usual referee bumps and interferences.
The Usos were jumped by The Mysterios. However, Seth Rollins spoiled the Rated-R Superstar’s party by costing him the match. This would lead to one of the best trilogies in recent times between the pair. Meanwhile, Reigns took to the microphone and ordered the fans to acknowledge him. Moments later, John Cena returned to a thunderous ovation and capped off an amazing night of wrestling.
#2 The Usos vs. Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa-Money in the Bank 2023
Arguably, the peak of The Bloodline angle. Following this, the saga unfortunately never reached similar heights. However, this tag team match served as one of the greatest moments in the storyline’s history. Although it took a while for the bout to shift gears, once it did, there was no looking back. The Usos were at their best, proving a point to their Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns.
A double kickout by the twin brothers after a Samoan Spike-Spear combination sent the crowd into a frenzy. Jey and Jimmy then gained momentum, gaining the upper hand on Reigns in a 2-on-1 situation. A series of superkicks later, Jey hit the splash and became the first person to pin Reigns in over three years. This also helped establish the YEET Master as a main event player, as he ascended to a meteoric rise in popularity.
#1 John Cena vs. CM Punk-Money in the Bank 2011
The most obvious choice for the top spot. The molten-hot Chicago crowd, the stakes, CM Punk’s homecoming entrance, and the match itself—everything about it screams “classic.” John Cena defended his WWE Championship against The Second City Saint, who was wrestling on the last night of his contract. The story and crowd help what is arguably the greatest match of both men’s careers.
Cena uses his strength to subdue Punk, who showcases why he’s a certified main eventer. The closing stretch is a riveting one as Vince McMahon inadvertently distracts The Franchise Player, allowing the Best in the World to hit a second GTS and pin the champion.
What followed is one of the most iconic stills, with Punk blowing a kiss goodbye to McMahon and the company. Although the ‘Summer of Punk’ ended up being a disappointment, the match cemented its legacy as one of the greatest bouts of all time.
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Vansh Shah
(1079 Articles Published)