Match This! Wrestlemania 2005
Kane vs. Chris Jericho vs. Edge vs. Christian vs. Shelton Benjamin Vs. Chris Benoit in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match – WWE Wrestlemania 21 – April 3rd, 2005
Though Wrestlemania XX would arguably kick off the loss of identity that plagued the WWE for nearly a decade, Wrestlemania 21 was smack dab in the middle of it. Want proof? Once this incredible match ends, Eugene comes out, cuts a promo and it is interrupted by Muhammad Hassan who is taken out by Hulk Hogan. Whenever Raw pisses you off, remember this segment. But we’re not here to talk about two of the most misguided gimmicks in the history of wrestling, we’re here to talk about Money in the Bank. Though it has become its own Pay-Per-View with its own allure around it, MitB was once one of the highlights of Wrestlemania. In this first iteration of the match, the performers established the format as something very special. The (legitimate) brain child of Y2J, it was clear that the G.O.A.T. was seeking to steal what was already an impressive Wrestlemania card. Sure, the matches on the show were pretty cool, but all of the talent in this match should have been closer to the Main Event. They’d get to prove why.
Kane, a little younger and leaner, was arguably the best big man in the business. He gave it all here. Edge was the chosen one, both of the company and the fans. Christian, along with his “brother” Edge were the kings of the ladder match. His dominance in the match style would continue here. Shelton Benjamin should have been at the top of the company years ago and while I’m glad to see him back on Smackdown!, watching this match reminded me how the WWE dropped the ball with him years back. Some say that if you’re too good of a hand, you get stuck in roles like this. Its been proven otherwise in recent years, but I suppose that never helped Benjamin. Even with all of the excellent talent here, I think Benjamin stands out the most. Chris Benoit also appears. I won’t dig too deep into this, but it has to be acknowledged that as this match was taking place, he was one of the best in the business. This first Money in the Bank stands as one of the best and retains a strength that few of the later ones do: Restraint. Yes, there are high spots. Yes, there are truly brutal moments. What stands out though is how finely crafted the story is. The crowd, already watching some of the best talent in the company, is not given a moment to breathe. Every performer gets to shine and get their due rest as well. It also pulls off a finish that could have easily pissed off the crowd, but was ultimately so appropriate it didn’t. As far as the broadcast goes, this should also be recognized as one fo Jim Ross’ finest moments. If you’re looking for some great Wrestlemania moments to fill your week, this is the place to start.
This match, along with every Wrestlemania, is available most readily on the WWE Network.