Top three most shocking returns in WWE Money in the Bank PLE history

(Courtesy : WWE)
Fans were surprised to see all these returns.
Given that the long-running PLE is based on one of pro wrestling’s most iconic stipulations, the Money in the Bank (MITB) ladder match, it generates a lot of fan interest. Thus, it is an excellent environment to stage surprise returns that will drive the crowd into a frenzy.
The history of WrestleMania and Royal Rumble are well-known for being events full of surprises and shocks, but Money in the Bank has gained a similar reputation in recent years. Now, let’s take a look at the three most stunning returns in WWE.
3. Drew McIntyre – 2023
Starting with one of the most recent additions, Drew McIntyre shocked London last year at MITB when he returned to assault Gunther and put the Intercontinental Champion on notice. The Scottish Warrior has not competed in a WWE match since WrestleMania 39: Night Two, when he lost to Gunther in a Triple Threat Match with Sheamus. McIntyre’s position was quite unknown at the moment because he had yet to re-sign a contract.
Gunther was taken aback by the thunderous applause at the O2 Arena when his theme song was played. McIntyre destroyed the IC Champion with a Claymore kick, paving the way for a confrontation with The Ring General at SummerSlam 2023. Kudos to Triple H for postponing McIntyre’s comeback till MITB London. The Scottish Warrior is a popular character in the United Kingdom, thus his return was a pleasant surprise for the crowd.
2. Brock Lesnar – 2019
The 2019 Men’s MITB is most noted for its contentious ending. After seven committed stars had brutalized one another in an all-out fight, Brock Lesnar dashed to the ring and threw Mustafa Ali over the ladder, grabbing the briefcase for himself. Lesnar’s comeback and subsequent victory at Money in the Bank generated a lot of controversy because he was a part-timer and did not participate in the event. That shouldn’t take away from the surprise factor of his unexpected arrival, though.
At WrestleMania 35, the Beast had lost the Universal Championship to Seth Rollins. It was assumed by supporters that he would take a long vacation and come back in time for SummerSlam. Unexpectedly, WWE scheduled his comeback a month after Mania, jumping the gun. In addition, Sami Zayn, the fight’s eighth fighter, had been knocked out in the ring, and Braun Strowman was being pointed to by everyone. Few anticipated that Lesnar would replace Zayn.
1. John Cena – 2021
John Cena twice before 2021 made a shocking return once in 2013 and another a decade after but his most unexpected return was in Money in the Bank 2021. WWE needed to do something extra at Money in the Bank 2021—the first major PLE with the full-time return of the fans to entice the wrestling community back into their product after a period of no fans.
WWE achieved great success in MITB 2021. In an outstanding main event tainted by meddling and shenanigans, Roman Reigns triumphed against Edge. “Now everyone can acknowledge me,” exclaimed Reigns, grabbing the microphone as Edge and Seth Rollins battled through the arena.
As soon as John Cena’s song started playing, the audience let out one of the greatest ovations in recent memory. The Tribal Chief went from being angry to being incredulous. As Cena walked into the arena, Michael Cole’s voice broke with enthusiasm.
The Former WWE Champion finished the encounter with his famous “You Can’t See Me” gesture after running down the ramp and staring down the champion. The rumors had begun to circulate since Cena’s comeback, but nothing was certain. WWE deserves special recognition for ensuring his return as a genuine surprise.
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Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.
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