WWE SmackDown (May 23, 2023): Winners, Losers & Money In The Bank Qualifying Matches

James

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Post on May 25, 2025

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WWE SmackDown (May 23, 2023): Winners, Losers, and the Road to Money in the Bank

Friday Night SmackDown delivered another electrifying episode on May 23rd, 2023, setting the stage for the highly anticipated Money in the Bank premium live event. The night was dominated by crucial qualifying matches for the coveted Money in the Bank ladder matches, leaving some superstars celebrating and others contemplating their next move. Let's break down the night's biggest winners, losers, and key takeaways.

The Big Winners: Securing Money in the Bank Spots

Several superstars punched their tickets to the Money in the Bank ladder matches, significantly boosting their chances at a world championship opportunity.

• LA Knight: Knight secured his spot in the Men's Money in the Bank ladder match after a hard-fought victory against a formidable opponent. His recent surge in popularity makes him a strong contender, and this win solidifies his status as a major player. Will he finally climb the ladder to success?

• Zelina Vega: Vega's victory in the Women's Money in the Bank qualifying match showcased her resilience and cunning. Her inclusion in the ladder match adds another layer of intrigue to an already stacked field. Vega’s aggressive style could make her a surprising favorite.

• The Usos: While not technically Money in the Bank qualifiers, their successful title defense against the Brawling Brutes maintains their dominance and keeps their eyes firmly set on the tag team championship scene. Their continued success is a testament to their enduring legacy in WWE.

The Losers: Missed Opportunities and Setbacks

Not everyone walked away from SmackDown victorious. Several superstars suffered setbacks that could impact their momentum heading into Money in the Bank.

• Sheamus and the Brawling Brutes: Their loss to The Usos leaves them still chasing the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships. Will they find another opportunity to challenge for the titles before Money in the Bank? Their continued frustration could lead to interesting storylines.

• Unqualified Superstars: Many superstars vying for a spot in the Money in the Bank ladder matches fell short. This raises the stakes for upcoming weeks, as they will likely scramble for another chance to qualify before it's too late. The competition is fierce, and the pressure is on.

Key Moments and Takeaways: Beyond the Qualifying Matches

Beyond the Money in the Bank qualifying matches, several other key moments shaped the narrative of the night:

• The Ongoing Bloodline Saga: The continued tension within The Bloodline continues to be a major draw, leaving fans on the edge of their seats wondering what will happen next. The intricate relationships and betrayals promise more drama in the weeks to come.

• Other Feuds Brewing: Several other rivalries simmered beneath the surface, suggesting intriguing storylines for the coming weeks. These developing conflicts add another layer of anticipation to the upcoming events.

Looking Ahead to Money in the Bank:

With several key qualifiers secured, the Money in the Bank ladder matches are shaping up to be chaotic and unpredictable. The event promises to be a thrilling spectacle with high stakes and plenty of surprises. Who will emerge victorious and claim the coveted briefcase? Only time will tell.

Call to Action: What were your favorite moments from this week's SmackDown? Share your thoughts and predictions for Money in the Bank in the comments below! Don't forget to follow us for all the latest WWE news and updates!