WWE’s road to Money in the Bank officially kicked off on the May 16 edition of Friday Night SmackDown, with the first competitors punching their tickets to one of WWE’s most anticipated Premium Live Events of the year, scheduled for Saturday, June 7.
Two high-stakes triple threat qualifiers headlined the blue brand’s broadcast, and both the men’s and women’s ladder matches now have their first official entrants.
Alexa Bliss Returns to the Spotlight
In the women’s division,
Alexa Bliss made a major statement, earning her place in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match by defeating Chelsea Green and Michin in a fast-paced triple threat. Bliss, a former MITB winner and one of WWE’s most decorated female superstars, now sets her sights on once again securing a guaranteed title opportunity.
Her win marks a return to the spotlight after months of limited appearances, and with momentum on her side, Bliss will be a top threat come June 7.
Solo Sikoa Bulldozes His Way In
On the men’s side, Solo Sikoa secured his spot by emerging victorious in a hard-hitting triple threat against Jimmy Uso and Rey Fenix. The match showcased all three competitors’ toughness, but it was Sikoa who stood tall after a brutal Samoan Spike to Uso sealed the win.
Sikoa now enters the field for the men’s ladder match, a battleground historically known for launching future world champions into stardom.
More Qualifiers Set for May 23 SmackDown
WWE is wasting no time filling out the rest of the ladder match lineups. Next week’s Friday Night SmackDown on
May 23 will feature two more crucial qualifiers:
- Charlotte Flair vs. Zelina Vega vs. Giulia – The winner joins Bliss in the women’s Money in the Bank match. This bout also marks Giulia’s in-ring debut as an official member of the SmackDown roster.
- LA Knight vs. Aleister Black vs. Shinsuke Nakamura – Three fan favorites will battle it out for a coveted spot in the men’s ladder match. Nakamura personally called out both opponents in a pre-taped promo, setting the stage for a fiery showdown.
Championship Action Also Booked
In addition to the qualifiers, the May 23 SmackDown will also include a WWE Tag Team Championship match. Champions
The Street Profits (Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins) will defend their titles against the high-flying duo of
Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer & Axiom).
WWE SmackDown – May 23, 2025 Lineup:
- Women’s MITB Qualifier: Charlotte Flair vs. Zelina Vega vs. Giulia
- Men’s MITB Qualifier: LA Knight vs. Aleister Black vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
- WWE Tag Team Championship Match: Street Profits (c) vs. Fraxiom
