Mercedes Mone, formerly known as Sasha Banks in WWE, has finally shed light on the reasons behind her dramatic departure from the wrestling giant in 2022. Her exit, alongside Naomi, sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, sparking intense speculation about the circumstances leading to their walkout. In a recent interview on The Breakfast Club, Mone openly discussed the disrespectful treatment she endured, particularly from Vince McMahon, the then-chairman of WWE, which ultimately fueled her decision to leave.
Mone explained that her departure wasn’t a rash decision but a necessary step to protect her well-being and self-respect. She recounted feeling “talked down to” and disrespected in her interactions with McMahon. This pattern of communication became increasingly unbearable, pushing her to a breaking point where she felt compelled to prioritize her own values. “I didn’t like how he talked to me and how I was talked down to,” Mone stated, emphasizing the personal impact of these interactions. This feeling of being undervalued and unheard played a significant role in her choice to leave WWE.
The breaking point, according to Mone, occurred on a specific day when McMahon’s behavior crossed a line. While she didn’t divulge the exact words exchanged, she described it as “a little crazy” and enough to trigger a profound realization. This incident served as a catalyst, prompting her to listen to her inner voice and recognize the need for change. “That day he talked to me a little crazy. It was enough for my source of light to come into my body and go, ‘If you stay, that’s not okay.'” This powerful imagery of an internal “light” guiding her decision underscores the deeply personal and values-driven nature of her choice to leave WWE.
Mone further elaborated that her decision was not just about her personal feelings but also about setting an example. She questioned what message she would be sending to others, including future generations, if she tolerated such disrespect. “What are you going to teach your kids? What are you going to teach people? If you’re feeling like this from words, after being here for ten years, you have to stand up for yourself.’ That’s what I did.” This statement highlights her desire to empower herself and others to stand up against mistreatment, reinforcing the significance of her departure as a statement of self-worth and professional integrity.
Ultimately, Mercedes Mone’s candid revelation provides a clear understanding of the motivations behind her WWE exit. It wasn’t merely a career move, but a courageous act of self-respect and a refusal to tolerate disrespect, driven by a need to align her professional life with her personal values. Her story resonates with many who have faced similar situations, underscoring the importance of standing up for oneself in the face of adversity.
