Reigns retains title after grueling 27-minute battle; Penta and Stratton win ladders

Key points

• Roman Reigns defeated LA Knight in 26:50 to retain the World Heavyweight Championship, surviving multiple nearfalls and a powerbomb through the broadcast table.
• Penta won the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match in 32:05, defeating CM Punk, Kevin Owens, Bron Breakker, Je’Von Evans, and Trick Williams.
• Tiffany Stratton won the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match in 15:20, defeating Sol Ruca, Lola Vice, Jacy Jayne, Roxanne Perez, and Lash Legend.
• Liv Morgan won the Women’s World Championship in a triple threat match against Stephanie Vaquer and Becky Lynch in 16:55.
• Oba Femi defeated Bronson Reed in 11:40, overcoming interference from Austin Theory and Logan Paul.

Background

This event followed Reigns’ recent title defense against Penta in Mexico City and LA Knight’s refusal to turn heel in the weeks leading up to the show. The card featured the first women’s Money in the Bank ladder match with a field of first-time participants, a shift from previous years. Reigns had previously defeated Penta on Raw, setting up the current title picture.

How outlets are covering it

Pro Wrestling Dot Net praised the Reigns vs. Knight match as a 'very good' contest that exceeded expectations, noting Knight’s competitiveness despite the loss. Fox News emphasized Reigns’ dominance, stating he 'slammed the door' on Knight’s title hopes and reaffirmed his status as the top star. Bleacher Report graded the main event an A, highlighting the crowd’s support for Knight and the quality of the nearfalls, but criticized the men’s ladder match for its 'questionable logic' and overbooking, particularly the ambulance stunt. All outlets agreed the women’s ladder match was a strong showcase, though Bleacher Report noted Stratton’s win was a surprise given the crowd’s preference for Roxanne Perez.

Why it matters

Reigns’ retention solidifies his position as the top star, while the 946 faction’s post-match brawl sets up a potential feud. Penta’s ladder win positions him as a future title contender, and Stratton’s win creates immediate drama with Chelsea Green, the current women’s champion. Liv Morgan’s title win gives Raw a new heel to chase, while Oba Femi’s victory continues his push toward the top of the heavyweight division.

What to watch

The 946 faction is expected to confront The Bloodline on Raw. Penta may cash in his briefcase at a future event. Stratton will likely challenge Chelsea Green for the WWE Women’s Championship. Liv Morgan will defend her new title, potentially against Becky Lynch or Stephanie Vaquer. Oba Femi is expected to continue his push for the World Heavyweight Championship.