WWE Smackdown Highlights: Rhea Ripley and Tiffany Stratton Build Tension Ahead of Money in the Bank
Final Smackdown Before Money in the Bank
This week's episode of WWE Smackdown served as the last televised event leading up to the highly anticipated Money in the Bank premium live event. The show featured all participants from both the men's and women's ladder matches, each eager to make a final impression before the big event.
Rhea Ripley was particularly vocal about her intentions towards the current WWE Women's Champion during the show. The event took place at the Dignity Health Arena in Bakersfield, California, where champion Tiffany Stratton hosted a segment called 'Tiffy Time.'
During her promo, Tiffany reflected on her previous victory in the 2024 women's Money in the Bank ladder match, asserting that every competitor this Saturday would strive to emulate her success. She emphasized that once the winner is determined, the focus would solely be on her.
Rhea Ripley's Emotional Return
As the crowd chanted 'Tiffy Time!', Rhea Ripley's entrance music played, and she took to the ring. With a microphone in hand, Ripley shared her experience of never having participated in a Money in the Bank ladder match, expressing her longing for the champion's title. She noted that winning the MITB briefcase would bring her closer to reclaiming the championship and possibly facing Tiffany.
Following this confrontation, the show featured a six-woman tag team match that included all participants from the women's Money in the Bank 2025 ladder match. Rhea Ripley teamed up with Stephanie Vaquer and Alexa Bliss to take on Roxanne Perez, Naomi, and Giulia. Ripley made a significant impact by securing the pinfall victory for her team.
In the match's climax, Ripley attempted a RipTide on Perez, who countered with a spike DDT. Despite Perez's efforts to tag Naomi, Naomi refused, leading to a three-on-one situation where Ripley ultimately executed the RipTide on Perez to clinch the win.