WWE SmackDown News Roundup: Kevin Owens and Tiffany Stratton qualify for Money in the Bank, Sami Zayn confronted by Je’Von Evans, Penta, Trick Williams and more

WWE SmackDown delivered a busy night of action on October 2, 2026, from Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. With Money in the Bank just eight days away, the final qualifying matches for the men’s and women’s ladder matches took centre stage.The show featured several major developments beyond the qualifiers. Tiffany Stratton secured her place in the women’s Money in the Bank match, while Kevin Owens won the final men’s qualifying bout. Blake Monroe also defeated Giulia, while Sami Zayn faced a major confrontation involving several Money in the Bank contenders.Tiffany Stratton qualifies for Money in the BankTiffany Stratton defeated Tatum Paxley and Candice LeRae in a Triple Threat Match to secure the final spot in the 2026 Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match.Stratton and Paxley briefly worked together before their partnership broke down. LeRae took advantage of their disagreement and attacked both women.The match featured several impressive moments. Stratton hit a double handspring stunner and an Alabama Slam on LeRae. Paxley later delivered a huge 450 Splash to LeRae.Stratton answered with the Prettiest Moonsault Ever. She hit the move on both opponents before pinning LeRae to win the match.Kevin Owens wins final men’s qualifierKevin Owens defeated Cody Rhodes and Johnny Gargano in another Triple Threat Match to earn the final spot in the men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match.The match quickly became chaotic. Rhodes, Owens and Gargano all had several chances to win.Candice LeRae became involved at ringside when Gargano was battling Rhodes and Owens. Rhodes later sent Gargano through a table.Rhodes appeared to have the match won after hitting the Cross Rhodes on Owens. However, Randy Orton pulled the referee out of the ring.Rhodes then attacked Orton outside the ring. While Rhodes was prevented from returning, Owens hit Gargano with a powerbomb and scored the victory.Sami Zayn confronted by Money in the Bank contendersUndisputed WWE Champion Sami Zayn also had a major segment on SmackDown.Zayn spoke about his championship journey and said he does not receive the same respect as other WWE champions.Je’Von Evans interrupted him and made it clear that he wants to challenge for the title. Penta and Trick Williams then joined the confrontation.Williams claimed he was the man who looked, talked and smelled like Money in the Bank. Zayn responded by questioning whether the contenders could handle the pressure that comes with losing.Finn Bálor then appeared and reminded Zayn that he was coming for the championship.GUNTHER also entered the situation. He attacked Bálor before turning his attention to Zayn.The segment ended with several potential threats surrounding the Undisputed WWE Champion.Blake Monroe defeats GiuliaBlake Monroe defeated Giulia in their long-awaited singles match.The rivalry had already featured several confrontations backstage and on the entrance ramp. This time, the two finally met inside the ring.Monroe eventually sent Giulia face-first into the ring post before pinning her for the victory.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.