Five Storylines that Emerged from WWE Money in the Bank
By Vanessa Obioha
WWE’s recent premium live event, Money in the Bank, held over the weekend in London, delivered an electrifying show that captivated audiences. With standout moments like The Usos’ thrilling victory over Roman Reigns and the breathtaking performances in both the men’s and women’s Money in the Bank ladder matches, the WWE Universe is buzzing with excitement about the potential storylines that will unfold leading up to SummerSlam in August. Let’s delve into the five key storylines that emerged from the event.
The Usos Unseat Roman Reigns at the Table:
Roman Reigns’ reign as the Head of the Table appears to be on the verge of ending following his defeat at the hands of his cousins, The Usos. Reigns, who has not suffered a pinfall defeat in his over three years reign as the Undisputed WWE Universal champion, was decimated by Jey Uso’s splash. Just as Roman and Solo Sikoa believed they were spearheading their way to victory, Jey delivered a low blow to Roman, unseen by the referee.
The outcome of this match has weakened Reigns’ control over the bloodline, leaving his empire on the brink of collapse. WWE denizens eagerly anticipate the unfolding of the bloodline story as SummerSlam draws near. Will Jey or Jimmy become the next Head of the Table? Is Reigns’ prolonged reign as the Undisputed WWE Universal champion nearing its inevitable end?
Judgment Day Split Looms:
Following Damian Priest’s somewhat underwhelming win in the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match and his conspicuous presence during Seth Rollins and Finn Balor’s match, a split within Judgment Day seems inevitable.
Tensions had been building between Balor and Priest in the lead-up to the event, with Balor’s involvement in Rollins’ match potentially costing Priest an opportunity to challenge for the title. As the newly crowned Money in the Bank winner, Priest’s eyes are set on the best title to cash in, including the World Heavyweight Championship.
His ringside presence unsettled Balor, who ultimately suffered a defeat at the hands of champion Seth Rollins. A minor altercation ensued between the two Judgment Day members after the match, leaving fans curious about the potential fallout on tonight’s Monday Night Raw.
Damage CTRL’s Supremacy Crisis:
In ladder matches, personal aspirations often supersede collective interests. This was the case of Damage CTRL at the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match. Bayley, a previous briefcase winner in 2019, was determined to secure another record by pushing her group member, Iyo Sky, aside to climb the ladder and retrieve the coveted briefcase. However, Sky retaliated by handcuffing Bayley to Becky Lynch. It remains unclear how Bayley will react to Sky’s win or if she has the moral grounds to question Sky’s actions. With Sky’s victory, Bayley may have lost the upper hand she once had over Sky and Dakota.
Drew McIntyre’s Unfinished Business with Gunther:
Drew McIntyre is back and with a burning desire for vengeance. The Scottish warrior was last seen at Wrestlemania 39, participating in a triple threat match with the WWE Intercontinental champion Gunther and Sheamus. His return has been shrouded in uncertainty until his appearance at the recent premium live event, indicating that he is back and focused on Gunther. A one-on-one match between the two at SummerSlam may be in the works. And who knows a new Intercontinental champion may be crowned.
Shayna Baszler Goes Solo:
WWE’s women division is in need of a dominant superstar, reminiscent of the past. Shayna Baszler possesses the characteristics to fill that void but is not getting the necessary push. While her predictable and poorly executed turncoat tactic during the Money in the Bank tag team championship match may have fallen short, it would be beneficial for the WWE creative team to develop Baszler’s character into a forceful and commanding persona that shakes up the women’s locker room. Fans are eager to see Baszler step into the spotlight and bring back the intensity that the women’s division deserves.
