WWE SmackDown May 17: MITB Qualifiers, Feuds Heat Up
SmackDown saw MITB qualifiers, a surprise debut by Jesse Mateo, and a title defense by Tiffany Stratton. Full results and highlights.
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WWE SmackDown delivered a packed episode following Backlash 2025, pushing forward several major storylines and revealing key qualifiers for the upcoming Money in the Bank event. From faction tensions to MITB ladder match entrants, here’s a full breakdown of the broadcast.
The show began with Solo Sikoa entering alongside Jacob Fatu and Jesse Mateo (formerly Jeff Cobb). Sikoa acknowledged Mateo’s loyalty, expressing his desire to secure the Money in the Bank briefcase and elevate the Bloodline further. However, Fatu interrupted, asserting his independence from Solo, sparking internal tension.
Before the situation could escalate, LA Knight made a surprise appearance, attacking Mateo before escaping into the crowd. Knight’s interference marked his continued pursuit of the Bloodline.
Alexa Bliss emerged victorious in a triple threat qualifier against Meachin and Chelsea Green. The bout ended with Bliss executing her finisher on Green, earning a spot in the 2025 Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match. The crowd strongly backed Bliss, who now leads the women’s MITB field.
In a fast-paced tag match, Fraxxiom (Axiom and Nathan Frazer) defeated DIY after Axiom trapped Gargano in a submission hold. Despite Ciampa attempting to remove Axiom’s mask, Frazer intervened with a well-timed strike. DIY retaliated post-match, attacking Fraxxiom until Motor City Machine Guns made the save.
Backstage, R-Truth spoke about Cena’s attack at Backlash. He announced a match against Cena for Saturday Night’s Main Event, expressing determination to knock sense back into his former ally. Truth revealed the bout was arranged with assistance from Nick Aldis.
Aleister Black faced Carmelo Hayes in the night’s featured match. Hayes, accompanied by The Miz, capitalized on outside interference to score a pinfall win. Black retaliated after the match, landing a Black Mass on Miz, but Hayes closed the segment with a decisive aerial move.
McIntyre addressed the crowd, still recovering from injuries suffered at Backlash. He promised retribution against Priest inside a steel cage at Saturday Night’s Main Event. McIntyre vowed to walk out while his opponent would require a stretcher.
In a triple threat qualifier, Solo Sikoa defeated Jimmy Reigns and Phoenix to book his place in the 2025 Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match. Outside interference by Jesse Mateo allowed Sikoa to land a Samoan Spike on Phoenix for the victory. Post-match, LA Knight returned to brawl with Sikoa, Mateo, and Fatu, prompting Nick Aldis to book Knight vs. Mateo later in the show.
Mateo and LA Knight clashed in a heated singles bout. Despite Knight’s strong start, Mateo capitalized on the earlier chaos to earn his first WWE victory. After the bell, Knight continued his assault on the Bloodline members, signaling unfinished business.
Tiffany Stratton successfully defended her Women’s Championship against Nia Jax in the final match. Naomi’s interference was neutralized by Jade Cargill, who cleared her from the ring. Stratton overcame Jax’s chair attack and countered with a Sunset Flip Powerbomb to retain her title.
With new MITB entrants confirmed and rivalries intensifying, SmackDown built substantial hype for Saturday Night’s Main Event. Solo Sikoa and Alexa Bliss are now confirmed for ladder match action, while Cena, LA Knight, and McIntyre head toward high-stakes showdowns.
