Mercedes Mone Refuses to Spill Details on WWE Exit

Mercedes Mone reflected on the night she walked out of WWE during an appearance on WFAN, shedding some light on the decision that sparked headlines.

Back in May 2022, Mone, known as Sasha Banks during her WWE tenure, along with Naomi, left the company amidst creative differences with Vince McMahon, despite holding the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships at the time. This move led to their indefinite suspension from WWE SmackDown.

Addressing the incident, Mercedes hinted at the complexities behind her departure, teasing that full details might only be revealed in a future book.

“For so many years, everyone wants the tea on that drama. You’re not going to get it unless you buy the book maybe ten years later,” she said.

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When pressed on backstage issues, she emphasized a personal evolution from being a “Legit Boss” to taking charge as a CEO in her own life. She described a pivotal moment of clarity where she felt compelled to pursue personal growth and stand up against what she perceived as unjust circumstances. This decision, she claimed, paved the way for her current success, highlighting her achievements as one of the highest-paid women in wrestling history, holding the TBS Championship in AEW and pursuing the New Japan Strong Women’s Championship.

“For me, I went from a Legit Boss to a CEO because I wanted to grow. There was something in my soul that said, ‘You need to grow.’ I wanted to be the CEO of my own life. There was a light source that came into my heart that day. ‘You have to do what’s right for you. What’s happening right now at this moment is not right. You have to take your life in your hands and go make it happen. Go make your heart happy. Go let them know that what they’re doing right now is wrong and show them.’ I did. I had to let them know that I am the right one that you messed with that day, and now here I am today, one of the highest paid women in women’s wrestling history. “

“The TBS Champion, going after the New Japan Strong Women’s Championship. I get to do so much of my dreams because of that day that I walked out and trusted my heart.”

Since leaving WWE officially at the start of 2023 and subsequently joining New Japan Pro-Wrestling, Mercedes Mone has continued to ascend in the wrestling world. Her journey led her to AEW, where she debuted in March 2024. Meanwhile, Naomi opted to re-sign with WWE in January 2024 after a stint with TNA Wrestling.

Mercedes is now gearing up for a major match at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door, where she will face Stephanie Vaquer in a title vs. title showdown. Mercedes will defend her AEW TBS Title against Vaquer’s NJPW Strong Women’s Title, marking another significant milestone in her career.

What are your thoughts on Mercedes Mone’s reflections about her decision to leave WWE and her subsequent success in AEW and NJPW? How do you feel about her upcoming title vs. title match against Stephanie Vaquer at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door? Share your opinions and excitement in the comments below!