Mercedes Mone, formerly known to WWE fans as Sasha Banks, has embarked on an exciting new chapter in her wrestling career, stepping into the world of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) as Mercedes Monet. Just a day before her highly anticipated match against KAIRI at NJPW Battle in the Valley for the IWGP Women’s Championship, Mercedes Monet offered fans a deeply personal glimpse into her journey in a revealing video posted on her YouTube channel.
In the emotional 23-minute video, Mercedes Monet openly discussed her feelings and experiences following her departure from WWE. She articulated the internal struggle she faced in defining her path forward after spending a decade portraying the character of Sasha Banks. “This whole time that I’ve been gone from the WWE, I’ve been really struggling [with] what’s next,” Mercedes Monet confessed, highlighting the identity crisis that many performers face when transitioning away from long-established roles. “What am I going to do in wrestling? Who am I? I’ve been a character for like 10 years in that company, so it felt like such a death. It’s just been such a long journey trying to figure out who I am after the WWE and now it’s finally coming together.”
Mercedes Monet eloquently distinguished between her past persona and her present self, clarifying the evolution she has undergone. “[Sasha] was everything I wanted to be as a kid, but now I get to be Mercedes Monet and she is everything who I am now,” she stated, emphasizing the authenticity she now feels in her new role. This transition is not just a name change; it represents a significant personal and professional growth. “I’m evolving from a boss to a legit CEO, which is what I am in real life. I am the president of my own estate and I am f***ing so excited to begin this next chapter and this next journey. I’m just ready I’m ready to go.” This declaration underscores her empowerment and control over her career trajectory as Mercedes Monet.
Adding another layer of intrigue to her NJPW debut, Mercedes Monet revealed that she hadn’t finalized her contract with the promotion until she actually arrived for Wrestle Kingdom 17. This detail emphasizes the element of risk and faith involved in her decision to join NJPW. This career pivot followed her and Naomi’s walkout from “WWE Raw” in May 2022, a controversial moment that ultimately paved the way for this transformative move. The gamble undoubtedly paid off, as Mercedes Monet triumphantly defeated KAIRI at Battle in the Valley, securing the IWGP Women’s Championship. This victory marked her first major championship win since leaving WWE, solidifying her successful entry into this new phase of her career as Mercedes Monet and validating her decision to bet on herself. The wrestling world eagerly anticipates what Mercedes Monet will achieve next as she continues to build her legacy.
