A Night of Triumphs and Turning Points
On May 16, 2025, WWE SmackDown delivered an action-packed episode that set the stage for the upcoming Money in the Bank event. The night featured Tiffany Stratton’s valiant title defense, Alexa Bliss’s successful return to singles competition, and Solo Sikoa’s strategic victory, all contributing to a memorable evening for WWE fans.
Tiffany Stratton Retains WWE Women’s Championship
In the main event, Tiffany Stratton faced the formidable Nia Jax in a high-stakes match for the WWE Women’s Championship. The bout was intense, with both competitors showcasing their strengths—Stratton’s agility and Jax’s power. Despite interference attempts and a brutal Samoan Drop through the announce table, Stratton demonstrated resilience. She capitalized on a moment of distraction, delivering her signature “Prettiest Moonsault Ever” twice to secure the victory and retain her title.
Alexa Bliss Qualifies for Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match
Alexa Bliss returned to singles competition with a triple threat match against Chelsea Green and Michin, aiming to qualify for the Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match. The match was dynamic, with each wrestler having moments of dominance. In the end, Bliss’s experience and opportunism shone through as she executed a Sister Abigail on Green to clinch the win. This victory marks Bliss’s return to form and positions her as a strong contender in the upcoming ladder match.
Solo Sikoa Secures Spot in Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match
In the men’s division, Solo Sikoa faced Jimmy Uso and Rey Fenix in a triple threat match to qualify for the Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match. The contest was intense, with each wrestler bringing unique styles to the ring. Sikoa capitalized on distractions caused by Jacob Fatu and JC Mateo, delivering a decisive Samoan Spike to secure his spot in the ladder match.
Key Outcomes from WWE SmackDown (May 16, 2025)
| Match Type | Participants | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Women’s Championship Match | Tiffany Stratton vs. Nia Jax | Stratton retained title |
| Women’s MITB Qualifier | Alexa Bliss vs. Chelsea Green vs. Michin | Bliss qualified for MITB Ladder Match |
| Men’s MITB Qualifier | Solo Sikoa vs. Jimmy Uso vs. Rey Fenix | Sikoa qualified for MITB Ladder Match |
Conclusion: Momentum Builds Towards Money in the Bank
The May 16 episode of WWE SmackDown was pivotal in shaping the landscape for the upcoming Money in the Bank event. Tiffany Stratton’s successful title defense solidified her status as a formidable champion. Alexa Bliss’s victory marked a triumphant return to singles competition, while Solo Sikoa’s strategic win demonstrated his rising prominence in the men’s division. As the road to Money in the Bank continues, these developments promise an exciting and unpredictable event ahead.