Kevin Owens Qualifies for MITB as Randy Orton Sabotages Cody Rhodes

Key points

• Kevin Owens won the men's Money in the Bank qualifying match after Randy Orton interfered to distract Cody Rhodes, allowing Owens to pin Johnny Gargano.
• Tiffany Stratton defeated Tatum Paxley and Candice LeRae to secure the final women's spot for the Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
• Blake Monroe won her SmackDown debut match against Giulia, though the bout was criticized for lacking the buildup expected after months of delays.
• Sami Zayn faced a confrontation with Je'Von Evans, Penta, Trick Williams, Finn Balor, and Gunther, ending with Gunther attacking both Zayn and Balor.
• Ricky Saints and The War Raiders defeated Rey Fenix and Fraxiom in a six-man tag team match, with Saints pinning Fenix.

Background

This event followed a series of Money in the Bank qualifiers on September 25, where CM Punk and Lash Legend secured their spots. The October 2 episode served as the final prelude to the October 10 Premium Live Event, aiming to finalize the card and hype the upcoming ladder matches. Previous weeks saw significant booking decisions, including Penta's rise as a No. 1 contender and various title feuds involving Sami Zayn and the Women's Tag Team Champions.

How outlets are covering it

Bleacher Report praised the main event as a 'feel-good moment' and the show's highlight, grading it B+, while criticizing the women's qualifier as predictable. Ringside News and Fightful confirmed the results but noted that last-minute changes were possible before the live broadcast. WWE's official highlights emphasized the emotional beats, such as Paige slapping Nikki Bella and the intense rivalry between Giulia and Blake Monroe, whereas Bleacher Report noted that the Giulia-Monroe match, despite being enjoyable, failed to capitalize on the long buildup.

Why it matters

The results solidify the main event for the upcoming Money in the Bank event, with Kevin Owens and Tiffany Stratton joining the ladder matches. The interference by Randy Orton against Cody Rhodes may have long-term implications for their rivalry, while the chaotic segment involving Sami Zayn and multiple rivals sets the stage for future title contention. The debut of Blake Monroe marks a significant moment for her career, transitioning her from NXT to the main roster.

What to watch

WWE will likely focus on hyping the Money in the Bank event on October 10, featuring the newly qualified competitors. The feud between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton may escalate, and the confrontation involving Sami Zayn could lead to further title implications. Additionally, the Women's Tag Team Championship match between Charlotte Flair and Tatum Paxley against Fatal Influence is set for next week, along with a potential appearance by CM Punk.