What if Someone Else got Rich?

I was watching Money in the Bank 2011 the other day, and it got me thinking about those who have competed in the MITB matches and lost. This match has helped propel the careers for many of the winners. So, what if somebody else who competed in these matches won instead? Since the first six MITB matches were held at a WrestleMania, I figured now is a fitting time to take a look at each MITB match:

1) WrestleMania 21 - Chris Benoit
Chris Benoit's prior championship success would not have made him a surprise winner. That said, the impact of his win would have changed 26.5 months later after he murdered his wife and son before committing suicide. The WWE doesn't even mention his existence outside of record books.

For this sake, be thankful it was Edge who won and became known as the "Ultimate Opportunist."

Actual winner: Edge

2) WrestleMania 22 - Matt Hardy
Matt is the older of the Hardy brothers, but he has always been treated as the younger one by wrestling promotions. Unlike Matt, Jeff Hardy has been the one to win world championships in both WWE and TNA.

I feel like he had risked enough during the Attitude Era to receive at least one world championship run.

Actual winner: Rob Van Dam

I've witnessed three MITB matches: WrestleMania 23 (pictured) and the two in 2011. It is easily my favorite match type that I have seen in person. Although, a Royal Rumble would probably top it if I see one. (Photo/ Robert Vanderkolk)

3) WrestleMania 23 -  Mr. Kennedy
Alright, you caught me! Mr. Kennedy technically won this match, but he never had the chance to cash in the contract. It seemed like every time Kennedy was about to receive a push, something happened that caused for it to come to a halt. First, the WWE overreacted to an injury. Secondly, he was suspended for a wellness policy violation.

Now he's in TNA as a two-time TNA World Heavyweight Champion.

Technical winner: Edge

4) WrestleMania XXIV - Carlito
Carlito had enough charisma and in-ring ability to make a credible champion. Also, I'm sure it could have helped make Carlito more pleased with his standing in WWE.

Actual winner: CM Punk

The Road to WrestleMania has Begun

The "Road to WrestleMania" always seems to be one of the most exciting times of the year. Intense storylines, big returns, and Undertakers streak all make these weeks the best of the year, but you all already knew that. Even though we know some things are almost guaranteed to happen (Undertaker winning), it's still the exciting because of the "what if" factor.

I know that we still have plenty of weeks and Elimination Chamber left, but these are my thoughts on what the WrestleMania XXIX card will look following Royal Rumble:

-Rock (c) vs Cena - This match is all but finalized already, and we have only seen one Raw since they both were victorious at Royal Rumble. With The Rock being the big name star that he is, I do not see him dropping the belt after only a month. Although I would love to see anyone else with the strap. The Rock went over in his "Once in a Lifetime" homecoming match last year, so I see "Once In a Lifetime: Part II" being the official passing of the torch and championship belt.  Winner: Cena

    

Stars such as Carlito (pictured) and Shelton Benjamin were heavily rumored to return at the Royal Rumble. They were both involved in many MITB matches, I would love to see either one at Mania. (Photo/ Michael Vanderkolk)

-Del Rio (c) vs Orton - After Del Rio beats Big Show and Orton wins the EC match, the two will have a face-vs-face 'Mania match. Del Rio wins, but Dolph Ziggler finally cashes in his MITB contract on the grandest stage of them all. Winner: Zigger via MITB

-HHH vs Lesnar- Lesnar returned on Raw and injured Mr. McMahon. I see the recently retired son-in-law wanting to seek vengeance. Since Vinnie Mac never said the words "You're fired" to Heyman, I see his contract being on the line. Lesnar saves his manager's job. Winner: Lesnar

-Taker vs Punk - There's rumors Taker is sitting this year out. I for one would be disappointed. Punk has little to prove anymore. To be the first one to defeat Undertaker at WrestleMania would be something no one would forget. It doesn't happen, but no one will forget the match. Winner: Taker