Mercedes Moné FKA Sasha Banks Returns to Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 17
New Japan Pro Wrestling’s annual “Wrestle Kingdom” event was the stage for the official return of Mercedes Varnado, formerly known as Sasha Banks, now known as “Mercedes Moné.”
While rumors of Moné joining NJPW and appearing at Wrestle Kingdom weren’t really kept under wraps, her debut was grand and really felt like a major star had arrived. Since Mercedes and Naomi famously walked out on WWE during Monday Night RAW, there’s been much speculation about the duo’s future, with a return to WWE almost seeming certain after Triple H took over. Now, as seen at Wrestle Kingdom, it’s official that at least Mercedes has moved on for the time being and will embark on new endeavors.
Mercedes Moné is here!
Welcome to #njpw, @mercedesvarnado!#njwk17 pic.twitter.com/MCuWSs99y4
— NJPW Global (@njpwglobal) January 4, 2023
Mercedes Varnado’s WWE contract officially ended this past weekend, so now the question is, could she pop up anywhere else? Namely, AEW. With Mercedes Moné making a big money deal with New Japan, a similar deal could be struck with AEW, but would it be best for her career? The fledgling AEW women’s division has failed to garner much interest even though they do have some great talent. Mercedes would undoubtedly walk in and be at the top, but could she do enough to bring the division to prominence? It’s interesting to note that AEW is promising a mystery partner for Saraya on the January 11 edition of “Dynamite,” and we can’t think of a bigger available name than Mercedes Moné.
Check out the epic debut of Mercedes Moné at Wrestle Kingdom 17 below:
Mercedes Varnado/Mone making her epic entrance at #wk17 💰 pic.twitter.com/URplIRTADF
— Covalent TV (@TheCovalentTV) January 4, 2023
