Since her highly anticipated arrival in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in March 2024, Mercedes Moné, formerly known as Sasha Banks, has been the center of attention. Despite being medically cleared to wrestle, she has been actively engaging in promos, building up to her in-ring debut at the AEW Double or Nothing 2024 Pay-Per-View, where she will face off against Willow Nightingale for the TBS Championship. However, her character has raised eyebrows among wrestling enthusiasts, with some questioning whether it fits the AEW environment.
Dave Meltzer, a renowned wrestling journalist, has voiced his concerns, suggesting that Mercedes Moné’s character needs a change. Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Meltzer expressed his reservations about the CEO’s persona, which has deviated significantly from her WWE gimmick. The addition of “The CEO” chants to her entrance theme and her overall presentation have raised questions about her compatibility with AEW’s style.
Meltzer’s concerns are not unfounded, as Mercedes Moné’s character has failed to resonate with fans in the same way that Sasha Banks did during her WWE tenure. Moreover, her inability to prove herself in the ring due to medical clearance issues has added to the uncertainty surrounding her AEW stint.
Legendary wrestling journalist Bill Apter, speaking on the UnSKripted podcast, echoed Meltzer’s sentiments, stating that Mercedes Moné’s hype has dissipated since her arrival in AEW, citing her lack of significant achievements. This has led to speculation about her future in the promotion and whether she can regain her mojo.
As Mercedes Moné gears up for her in-ring debut, the stakes are high. Can she silence her critics and prove herself as a force to be reckoned with in AEW? The outcome of her match against Willow Nightingale at AEW Double or Nothing 2024 will be a crucial indicator of her future in the company. One thing is certain – Mercedes Moné needs to adapt and evolve to thrive in the competitive AEW terrain.
