Mercedes Mone, known to WWE fans as Sasha Banks, has become a cornerstone of the AEW women’s division as the reigning TBS Champion. In a recent newsletter, she reflected on her career journey, stating that moving on from WWE was a pivotal decision that changed her life for the better.
Mone walked out of WWE in May 2022 and later debuted for New Japan Pro-Wrestling in early 2023, where she captured the IWGP Women’s Championship. In her “Mone Mag” newsletter, she discussed the realization that her love was for the sport itself.
“Growing up, WWE was everything to me. I never imagined my life without it. But over time, I’ve come to realize that it’s not WWE I can’t live without; it’s pro wrestling itself. I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the person who sparked this journey for me. Because of that pivotal moment, my life changed for the absolute better.”
Mone made her highly-publicized AEW debut in March 2024 and has been a dominant force since, winning the TBS Championship and this year’s Women’s Owen Hart Cup Tournament. She continued, expressing gratitude for her decision and her fans.
“Not a day goes by that I don’t feel grateful for that decision. It pushed me to new heights, matured me into a strong-willed CEO, and empowered me to take control of my life and future. I’m especially thankful for all my fans who have stood by me throughout this journey.”
Her journey now leads to one of the biggest matches of her career. At AEW All In on July 12, Mone will challenge Toni Storm for the AEW Women’s World Championship.
