The Money in the Bank (MITB) Ladder Match has become synonymous with WrestleMania spectacle and high-risk thrills. Since its inception at WrestleMania 21, this innovative match type has consistently delivered unforgettable moments and launched careers into the stratosphere. Featuring a briefcase suspended above the ring, containing a contract for a guaranteed championship match, the Money In The Bank Ladder Match is a chaotic free-for-all where competitors utilize ladders as both weapons and vehicles to reach for their dreams. Let’s journey back through the first five Money in the Bank ladder matches at WrestleMania, reliving the drama and athleticism that defined this era.
WrestleMania 21: The Inaugural Ascent
The first-ever Money in the Bank ladder match at WrestleMania 21 set the standard for chaos and excitement. A star-studded lineup including Chris Jericho, Chris Benoit, Shelton Benjamin, Edge, Christian, and Kane clashed in a groundbreaking contest. Shelton Benjamin emerged as an early standout, showcasing incredible athleticism with maneuvers like a T-Bone Suplex off a ladder. Edge ultimately seized the briefcase, marking the beginning of a calculated climb to the top of WWE.
WrestleMania 22: RVD’s Extreme Elevation
WrestleMania 22’s Money in the Bank ladder match brought together a diverse mix of talent: Shelton Benjamin, Rob Van Dam, Finlay, Lashley, Matt Hardy, and the legendary Ric Flair. Shelton Benjamin continued to defy gravity, executing a breathtaking ladder run into a dive to the outside. Rob Van Dam, known for his high-flying style, secured victory after thwarting Benjamin’s acrobatic ladder climb, adding another accolade to his illustrious career.
WrestleMania 23: Hardy’s High-Risk Impact
The Money in the Bank ladder match at WrestleMania 23 expanded to an eight-man affair, featuring Booker T, Edge, Randy Orton, Finlay, Jeff Hardy, Matt Hardy, Mr. Kennedy, and CM Punk. This match is perhaps most remembered for Jeff Hardy’s death-defying leap, crashing through Edge onto a ladder bridge positioned between the ring and barricade. Mr. Kennedy emerged victorious, though injury would later sideline him, allowing Edge to capitalize on the Money in the Bank opportunity.
WrestleMania 24: Punk’s Second City Triumph
WrestleMania 24 witnessed another thrilling Money in the Bank ladder match with John Morrison, Shelton Benjamin, Carlito, MVP, CM Punk, Chris Jericho, and Mr. Kennedy vying for the coveted briefcase. Shelton Benjamin delivered another memorable performance, including a spectacular but painful crash through a ladder on the outside. CM Punk ultimately outmaneuvered his opponents, securing his first Money in the Bank victory and setting the stage for future championship glory.
WrestleMania 25: Punk Makes History
WrestleMania 25 hosted the fifth Money in the Bank ladder match, featuring Kofi Kingston, Mark Henry, Christian, Kane, Finlay, Shelton Benjamin, CM Punk, and MVP. While Mark Henry’s presence added a power element, Shelton Benjamin continued his tradition of high-risk ladder dives. CM Punk once again demonstrated his strategic prowess, winning the match for a second consecutive year, an unprecedented feat that solidified his place in Money in the Bank history.
A Legacy Forged in Ladders
These first five Money in the Bank ladder matches at WrestleMania established a legacy of breathtaking athleticism, unpredictable outcomes, and career-defining moments. From Edge’s cunning victory to CM Punk’s historic double win, each match contributed to the rich tapestry of WrestleMania lore. The Money in the Bank ladder match remains a highly anticipated event, promising future generations of Superstars the same opportunity to seize their destiny and reach for championship gold.
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