Mercedes Mone has commented on a match being changed due to unforeseen circumstances.
Following on from her infamous WWE walkout in 2022 due to reported disputes with creative, the former Sasha Banks officially reintroduced herself as Mercedes Mone at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17. With a new look and new persona, Mone looked to become the latest former WWE star to make an even bigger name for themselves around the world.
At NJPW Resurgence 2023, Mone competed in a tournament to crown the first ever NJPW Strong Women’s Championship. Defeating Stephanie Vaquer in the semifinals, Mone faced off against AEW star Willow Nightingale in the final. While many expected Mone to triumph that night and win the title, plans were derailed due to injury, resulting in Nightingale picking up the victory and Mone remaining out of a wrestling ring until her AEW debut at the Big Business special in March 2024.
Appearing on The Junkies on 106.7 The Fan, Mone discussed the night in question and stated that she was originally set to win the title but plans were changed mid-match due to injruy:
Just the many years of practicing and training in the ring, you’re prepared to take all these bumps safely and effortlessly. Sometimes the moves really hurt and you can get injured and sometimes you don’t know who’s going to win. When I broke my heel last year, I was supposed to win this championship (NJPW STRONG Women’s Title). But I was too injured that I (just) told the girl, I’m like, ‘Um, you’re gonna have to win this title’ because I couldn’t even stand up. So, you never know what’s gonna happen in wrestling and I think that’s what’s the funnest part. It’s like, yes, it’s live. Yes, it’s predetermined but, you have no idea what’s gonna happen.
Mercedes Mone Remains Double Champion
Following on from her AEW debut, Mone has found championship success with back-to-back pay-per-view victories. Beginning with a victory over Willow Nightingale to win the TBS Championship at Double or Nothing, Mone defeated Stephanie Vaquer at Forbidden Door to finally win the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship.
H/t to Post Wrestling.
