Sasha Banks Transitions to AEW, Chasing New Horizons in Women's Wrestling
ICARO Media Group
In a surprising turn of events, Sasha Banks, known as Mercedes Moné in the industry, has decided to leave WWE and join All Elite Wrestling (AEW). This move comes as Banks seeks new challenges and opportunities in the wrestling world.
Banks, who was one of the key members of WWE's dominant female faction, the "Four Horsewomen," alongside Bayley, Charlotte Flair, and Becky Lynch, achieved tremendous success during her tenure. With a stellar record of six world titles, three tag team titles, and even an ESPY for her groundbreaking WrestleMania main event against Bianca Belair, Banks etched her name in wrestling history.
However, the allure of exploring the Japanese women's wrestling scene and embracing change led Moné to make the bold decision to depart WWE. Influenced by legendary Japanese wrestlers Manami Toyota and Aja Kong, as well as her idol Eddie Guerrero, Moné yearned to compete in the detailed, hard-hitting matches her inspirations were known for.
Thus, Moné embarked on a tour with New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), capturing the IWGP Women's Championship by defeating Kairi at Battle in the Valley. This experience not only fulfilled a lifelong dream but also fueled her passion for Japanese wrestling. Moné intends to continue wrestling in Japan, and her decision to join AEW was influenced by the promotion's support for performers pursuing outside work.
AEW's commitment to collaboration with NJPW, demonstrated through events like the Forbidden Door, amplifies Moné's desire to showcase her skills against top talent from around the world. Her first AEW match is scheduled for Double or Nothing, where she will challenge Willow Nightingale for the TBS Championship. This match holds significance as Moné previously faced Nightingale in the NJPW Strong Women's Championship tournament finals in 2023. Despite losing that match and suffering an ankle injury, Moné is determined to steal the show in their long-awaited rematch.
Moné's debut in AEW aligns with her mission to globalize women's wrestling in the promotion. With her wealth of experience and passion for the craft, she aims to elevate the women's division and compete against the best. While nervous due to a year-long absence from the ring, Moné exudes excitement, confident that her encounter with Nightingale will exceed all her expectations.
Beyond her in-ring accomplishments, Moné has made her mark in the entertainment industry. She has appeared on popular shows like The Mandalorian, walked the runway during New York Fashion Week, and even showcased her rapping skills on her AEW theme. Throughout her journey, Moné has been supported by her close friends and allies, particularly Naomi and Bayley, who have accompanied her to different wrestling events, highlighting the camaraderie and unity among these women.
This moment in pro wrestling holds immense significance for Moné and Naomi, as they find themselves in a world where influential figures in the industry are Black women. After experiencing a WWE walkout due to creative differences, they have forged their own paths and shattered barriers along the way. Naomi's return to WWE and Moné's transition to AEW signify a new era where Black women can thrive and set new standards in professional wrestling.
As Moné looks ahead to her journey in AEW, she acknowledges the talent she will face, drawing inspiration from the success stories of former WWE stars who flourished in the promotion. Her distinct persona as "The CEO" sets her apart, and she is determined to showcase her unmatched skills and prove herself as the greatest women's wrestler of all time.
Sasha Banks's transition from WWE to AEW marks a pivotal moment in her career, allowing her to explore new horizons and inspire change in women's wrestling. The upcoming clash with Willow Nightingale at Double or Nothing promises to be a spectacle, leaving fans eagerly anticipating Moné's next chapter in her quest for greatness.