CM Punk is headed to the Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match after winning the triple threat qualifier on the September 25, 2026 episode of SmackDown. Punk outlasted Finn Bálor and GUNTHER in a match that came down to one chaotic closing sequence.
Punk entered the match after losing the Undisputed WWE Championship to Sami Zayn, leaving the qualifier as a chance to get back into the title picture. He had a lot riding on the bout after a backstage update said he was expected to work the Money in the Bank event..
Bálor and GUNTHER both came close to taking the final spot. Bálor hit the Coup de Grâce on GUNTHER, but Punk landed on top of him and scored the three-count before either man could recover.
The win puts Punk into the six-man ladder match, joining Bron Breakker, Je’Von Evans, Trick Williams and Penta. The final men’s spot will be decided next week when Kevin Owens, Cody Rhodes and Johnny Gargano meet in another triple threat.
Punk now has a shot at winning the briefcase and putting himself back in position for a championship opportunity.
Do you think he can climb the ladder and win Money in the Bank? Share your thoughts and feedback in the comments.
