AEW supposedly delayed plans for Mercedes Mone signing announcement due to Vince McMahon s*x trafficking lawsuit

Mercedes Mone is rumored to be signing with AEW.

AEW supposedly delayed plans for Mercedes Mone signing announcement due to Vince McMahon s*x trafficking lawsuit

Mercedes Mone and Vince McMahon (via WWE)

Sasha Banks, also known as Mercedes Mone, was a member of the Four Horsewomen in the WWE Women’s Division. Creative challenges within the Stamford-based company led her to decide to part ways with WWE in 2022. Rumors circulated about her potential move to AEW, but the expected announcement was noticeably absent. The revelation of the reason for the delay has now emerged, and it’s due to Vince McMahon.

Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio recently unveiled the reason behind the delayed announcement of Mercedes Mone joining AEW. According to Meltzer, the original plan was to make the announcement on Saturday. However, they strategically decided to postpone it as that day coincided with significant news about Vince McMahon.

Meltzer expressed concern that making the announcement on that day might have resulted in it being overshadowed by the widespread coverage of the Vince McMahon story. Therefore, AEW emphasized the importance of timing to ensure the news receives the attention it deserves.

WWE also made attempts to sign Mercedes Mone, but negotiations reportedly hit a roadblock due to financial terms. The disparity in contract offers led to her absence from the Royal Rumble event. The 32-year-old seems destined for AEW, and an official announcement is just a matter of time.

Mercedes Moné’s Japanese wrestling career after WWE exit

After parting ways with WWE, Mercedes Mone made a splash in the Japanese wrestling scene, particularly NJPW and Stardom. Her debut at Wrestle Kingdom 17 marked a significant moment as she confronted and attacked the IWGP Women’s Champion, Kairi. Adopting a new ring name, leading to a highly anticipated title match against Kairi at Battle in the Valley, where Moné emerged victorious, securing the IWGP Women’s Championship.

Mercedes Mone wrestling in Japan
Mercedes Mone wrestling in Japan (via X/@MercedesVarnado)

Mone continued to showcase her prowess in subsequent matches, successfully defending her title at Sakura Genesis in a thrilling three-way encounter against AZM and Hazuki. However, Stardom All Star Grand Queendom brought an end to her championship reign as she encountered a formidable challenge from Mayu Iwatani, losing the IWGP Women’s Championship after a 64-day reign.

Despite the setback, Mone continued to assert her presence, actively participating in the Resurgence tournament to determine the inaugural Strong Women’s Champion. While she triumphed over Stephanie Vaquer to advance to the finals, Mercedes faced a tough opponent in Willow Nightingale and, unfortunately, suffered an ankle injury during the match. Since then, fans have been heavily awaiting the 32-year-old’s return to in-ring action.

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