The Money in the Bank (MITB) briefcase is one of WWE’s most thrilling elements, adding a layer of suspense and excitement with its promise of a surprise title match at any time. Introduced in 2005, the briefcase has given us some of the most electrifying moments in WWE history.
However, not every cash-in attempt ends in glory. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable failed Money in the Bank cash-ins that left both wrestlers and fans reeling. Check out the Top 5 Failed Money in the Bank Cash-ins in WWE.
John Cena (2012)
John Cena, a cornerstone of WWE, won the MITB ladder match in 2012. In a break from tradition, he announced his intention to cash in the briefcase a week in advance, challenging CM Punk for the WWE Championship on the 1000th episode of Raw. The match ended in a disqualification win for Cena when Big Show interfered, attacking him and causing Cena to lose his shot at the title.
This marked the first time a Money in the Bank cash-in didn’t result in a new champion, adding an unexpected twist to the narrative.
Damien Sandow (2013)
Damien Sandow’s failed cash-in is often remembered as a huge letdown. Sandow won the briefcase in 2013, positioning himself as WWE’s “intellectual saviour.” However, his momentum stalled, and when he finally cashed in on John Cena, who had just returned from injury, things didn’t go as planned. Despite attacking Cena before the match to gain an advantage, Sandow was defeated cleanly.
This made him the first to lose a cash-in by pinfall, a significant blow to his character’s credibility.
Baron Corbin (2017)
Baron Corbin’s MITB victory in 2017 seemed like a golden opportunity for the rising star. But his cash-in attempt was poorly executed. Corbin chose to cash in on Jinder Mahal during an episode of SmackDown. However, before the bell rang, John Cena caused a distraction, allowing Mahal to roll Corbin up for the win.
This loss was not just a wasted briefcase but also a major setback in Corbin’s push, derailing his momentum significantly.
Braun Strowman (2018)
Braun Strowman, known for his immense strength and imposing presence, won the MITB briefcase in 2018. His cash-in attempt was set for the Hell in a Cell pay-per-view, where he challenged Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship. The match ended in a no-contest after Brock Lesnar interfered, leaving both competitors incapacitated.
This result was frustrating for fans who expected a definitive outcome and left Strowman’s cash-in feeling like a missed opportunity.
Austin Theory (2022)
Austin Theory’s cash-in attempt in 2022 was perhaps the most unconventional and controversial. Theory won the briefcase and, in a surprising move, cashed it in on the United States Champion, Seth Rollins, during an open challenge. However, his attempt was thwarted by Bobby Lashley, and Rollins capitalized on the chaos to retain his title.
This was the first time a MITB contract was used for a mid-card title, a decision that puzzled and upset many fans and analysts.
The Bigger Picture
Failed cash-ins are a crucial part of the Money in the Bank story. They add an element of unpredictability and remind us that success isn’t guaranteed. Each failed attempt comes with its own unique story and consequences for the wrestler involved. But the Top 5 Failed Money in the Bank Cash-ins in WWE list shocked every fan.
John Cena’s failure didn’t tarnish his legendary career, but for Damien Sandow and Baron Corbin, it was a significant career setback. Braun Strowman’s failed attempt was more about creating chaos than diminishing his credibility. Austin Theory’s controversial failure raised questions about WWE’s creative direction and the value of the MITB briefcase itself.
Conclusion
The Money in the Bank briefcase remains one of WWE’s most exciting and unpredictable elements. While successful cash-ins often lead to unforgettable title reigns, failed cash-ins remind us of the risks and uncertainties that come with the briefcase.
They can either be a springboard to greater heights or a stumbling block. Regardless of the outcome, each cash-in attempt adds a new layer to WWE’s rich storytelling, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Also. check out the list of Top 5 best cash-in Money in the bank in same night.
