4 most shocking returns in WWE Money in the Bank history
WrestleMania and Royal Rumble are famous for being the occasions for shocks and surprises, but Money in the Bank has also built the same reputation over the last couple of years.
Considering that the long-standing PLE is built around one of pro wrestling's greatest stipulations, i.e. the MITB ladder match, it garners much fan interest. Thus, it is a good setting to host surprise returns to send the crowd into a frenzy,
On that note, let's look at 4 most shocking returns in WWE Money in the Bank history
Note: Only the unannounced returns have been included. Thus, Rob Van Dam's return in 2013 is not included in this list.
#4. Drew McIntyre returned at Money in the Bank 2023 with a painful message for Gunther
Starting this list with one of the more recent entries, Drew McIntyre sent shockwaves through London last year at MITB when he returned to attack Gunther and put the Intercontinental Champion on notice.
The Scottish Warrior had not been seen in a WWE ring since WrestleMania 39: Night Two, where he lost to Gunther in a Triple Threat Match featuring Sheamus. There was a ton of uncertainty regarding McIntyre's status at the time as he was yet to re-sign a contract.
Thus, Gunther was stunned when his theme song hit as the loud O2 Arena erupted in applause. McIntyre laid out the IC Champion with a Claymore kick, setting the stage for a battle with The Ring General at SummerSlam 2023.
Kudos must be given to Triple H for holding off McIntyre's return till MITB in London. The Scottish Warrior is a beloved figure in the United Kingdom, and his return was a welcome surprise for the audience.
#3. John Cena made an unannounced return at MITB 2023
Money in the Bank 2023 was loaded with surprises. In addition to McIntyre's return earlier in the show, London was treated to an unannounced John Cena segment. The O2 arena was excited to see The Champ, as they sang his iconic theme song as Cena ran down the ramp.
Owing to his part-time status and filming commitments, this was a one-off appearance, and Cena didn't compete in a match. But, he had the wrestling world buzzing when he enthusiastically claimed that he wanted to bring WrestleMania to London.
Cena's promo was interrupted by The Arrogant Aussie, Grayson Waller. However, the 16-time World Champion had the last say as he finished the segment with an Attitude Adjustment.
In terms of shock value, few saw it coming. Furthermore, the segment was brilliantly planned out and the crowd responded with much enthusiasm, making it a highlight of Money in the Bank 2023.
#2. Brock Lesnar won the 2019 Men's MITB in a controversial booking decision
The 2019 Men's MITB is profoundly remembered for its controversial finish. After 7 dedicated stars had brutalized one another in an all-out war, Brock Lesnar ran to the ring and tossed Mustafa Ali off the ladder to grab the briefcase for himself.
Because he was a part-timer and didn't compete in the match, Lesnar's return and subsequent Money in the Bank win brought about much debate. However, that shouldn't detract from the shock value of his unexpected appearance.
The Beast had dropped the Universal Championship to Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 35. Fans presumed that he would take an extended leave, and return in time for SummerSlam.
Surprisingly, WWE jumped the gun on his return and booked it a month after Mania. Furthermore, Sami Zayn, the initial eighth competitor of the bout, had been taken out at ringside, and all hands pointed towards Braun Strowman. Few could have expected Lesnar to have taken Zayn's spot.
#1. John Cena stunned the entire world with a massive return at Money in the Bank 2021
Fresh off a no-fans pandemic era, WWE needed something special to lure the wrestling world back into their product at Money in the Bank 2021, which marked the first major PLE with the full-time return of the fans.
WWE hit the jackpot at MITB 2021. Roman Reigns had defeated Edge in a stellar main event marred by interference and shenanigans. Edge and Seth Rollins fought through the crowd as Reigns grabbed the mic and said, "Now everyone can acknowledge me."
John Cena's music hit, and the crowd exploded in one of the loudest ovations in recent memory. The Tribal Chief's facial expressions changed from anger to disbelief. Michael Cole's voice broke with excitement as Cena entered the arena.
The Champ ran down the ramp, had a stare-down with the champion, and capped it off with his iconic "You Can't See Me" gesture. Cena's return had made the rumor mill, but there was no clarity. WWE should be given extra credit for keeping his comeback a legitimate surprise.