Mercedes Mone is no longer under any pro wrestling contract. That brought up big rumors about her WWE return, but it appears she is expected to appear elsewhere now.

Mercedes Mone’s WWE Return Status Revealed

Sean Ross Sapp reported on Fightful Select that, at this time, WWE and Mercedes Mone are no longer engaged in active conversations about her making a return to the company.

Top free agent Mercedes Mone aka Sasha Banks and WWE had been engaged in conversations to possibly bring her back to the company. However, WWE sources stated to Fightful Friday night that the two sides are no longer in active negotiations regarding a return. The two sides had recently been engaged in conversations about a return. We’re told the dialogue was friendly, the back and forth failed to progress, and WWE sources claim that their side walked as a result of it.

It was also noted that another source “believed that she would end up appearing elsewhere imminently, but didn’t state where.”

AEW is set to hold their Worlds End Show this Saturday, followed by NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom next week, and TNA Wrestling is gearing up for a rebranding ahead of Hard to Kill in two weeks. So, Mercedes Mone has a few options if she wants to make a big debut on a special night.

Mercedes Mone’s Future in Pro Wrestling Uncertain

This is quite shocking, because many fans were really hoping for Sasha Banks’ return to the company. It doesn’t appear that is in the cards right now.

Mercedes Mone just registered trademarks for, what could be, a clothing line. She has other options in the entertainment industry, as her acting career could see more credits than the Mandalorian down the line.

Although Bayley opened stated that she begs Mercedes Mone to make a return to WWE at every chance she can, it doesn’t appear that worked. This is also in spite of how amazing Triple H has booked the Damage CTRL stable over the past year, something that Mercedes Mone certainly saw from afar. 

WWE fans were shocked with Sasha Banks and Naomi walked out of WWE in May 2022. Now, over a year removed from that controversial moment, and The Boss is getting a new spotlight thanks to a possible WWE return.

Mercedes Mone’s Current Contract Status

Mercedes Mone successfully revitalized her career and as she took her talent to Japan. She is no longer under any NJPW contract anymore, leaving her next choice in the pro wrestling business up in the air.

Some anticipate Mercedes Mone’s return to WWE, especially with Charlotte Flair currently sidelined due to injury. It would be perfect timing for Sasha Banks’ return, since the Royal Rumble is coming up in a matter of weeks.

Mercedes Mone Drops WWE Tease

Mercedes Mone recently shared a photo on her Instagram story, taken outside the TD Garden in Boston. That was the venue for WWE’s December 27th live event as part of their Holiday tour.

Although Mercedes Mone wasn’t actually in Boston for the December 27th show, she may have had WWE on her mind. We will have to see if Sasha Banks is back on the WWE roster the next time they travel to Beantown.

Mercedes Mone’s Future in Pro Wrestling

Mercedes Mone’s asking price for a new contract is very high, as some have speculated that she may want more than Charlotte Flair received for her latest contract extension. The Royal Rumble Premium Live Event on January 27th may provide a great platform for her return.

It was also reported that AEW no longer has a working plan to bring Mercedes Mone in. They did have plans for her, as proof by her appearance at AEW All In London, but she was injured at the time. Now that she is healthy again, we will have to see what happens.

Could Mercedes Mone be laying the groundwork for her return to WWE, close to two years after her final appearance? 

Mone, then Sasha Banks, walked out of WWE in May of 2022, alongside her then-tag-team partner Naomi. Mone would join New Japan at Wrestle Kingdom 18 and captured the IWGP Women’s Championship the next month. She has been out of action since May due to an injury. 

Teasing a WWE Return? 

While Mone hasn’t appeared for WWE in 19 months, rumors persist that she could one day make a comeback. After all, several Superstars who were once deemed ‘never’ to make a WWE return did exactly that. This week, Mone added fuel to the speculation with her Instagram Stories. On social media, Mone shared photos of Funko POP! Vinyls, all of which are based on her Sasha Banks WWE tenure. 

Could Mercedes Mone Return? 

Mone left WWE on bad terms, but a lot has changed within the promotion since the May 2022 walkout. Triple H now has significantly more influence than before which may help negotiations with the former IWGP Women’s Champion. Mone worked closely with the Game during his time as head of NXT and is said to have a good relationship with the DX/Evolution leader. 

Contractually speaking, there are currently no obstacles that would block Mone from entering talks with WWE. Her contract with New Japan has expired and she has not signed with any other promotion yet. While Tony Khan has often shared his interest in bringing Mone in, the two sides have yet to reach a deal and it is unknown if there are any current plans to sign her. 

The wrestling business seemingly has many talents, reaching new deals or preparing to explore free agency. Recently, it was reported by Fightful Select that Charlotte Flair signed an extension with WWE that would make her the highest-paid female talent in the company’s history. 

While free agency is looking for lucrative deals, it seems that former WWE talent Mercedes Moné (FKA Sasha Banks) has her number for what it would take for someone to sign her. 

 Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp shared on Twitter that the talk within the wrestling industry is that Moné’s asking price is higher than the deal that Flair received from WWE. It’s worth noting that the asking price would be negotiated and isn’t definitive of what she could get to sign. However, if true, it does share what  Moné values herself in the wrestling business. 

The former New Japan Pro Wrestling superstar is looking to make her in-ring return next year after recovering from an ankle injury. Moné suffered the injury in a match against Willow Nightingale at NJPW Resurgence on May 21. At one point, it was speculated that she could’ve made a return this year, but that isn’t the case. In November, she let her fans know that she is working towards making a comeback in 2024. 

Regarding her contract status, it was reported that she isn’t in a deal with NJPW and could sign anywhere. All Elite Wrestling was believed to be her destination, but that may no longer be the case. 

Could WWE Bring Mercedes Moné(Sasha Banks) Back To The Company 

While AEW could strike a deal with Moné, it seems that WWE is also a candidate. Heading into 2024, WWE has been looking to re-sign talent and is also interested in signing stars who are free agents. 

Moné could be on WWE’s radar as they look at their options to strengthen their already impressive roster. SEScoops’ own Aaron Varble shared exclusively on December 11 with sources within WWE that there have been no contract talks between the company and Moné in the last 30 days. However, that could change as the WWE has begun locking down talent with new deals and looking forward to 2024. 

It’s unclear if Moné will ultimately return to WWE, but it seems she is looking for an incredible deal for whoever is interested. 

Mercedes Mone is proving to be quite the popular free agent with multiple options for the former Women’s Champion. 

Mone signed with New Japan earlier this year and would debut for the company at Wrestle Kingdom 18. The following month, Mone would capture the IWGP Women’s Championship. She would hold the title until May before dropping the gold to current champion Mayu Iwatani. 

Returning to New Japan Pro Wrestling? 

Fightful Select reports that Mone is not signed to New Japan Pro Wrestling anymore, but that the company is interested in bringing her back into the fold. There has been no word on any talks between NJPW and Mone at this time. 

Mercedes Mone & WWE

While there have been reports that WWE is planning on renewing talks with several free agents at the start of next year there is no word if the former Sasha Banks’ name is on the list. The report also notes that they’ve heard from no one close to the creative team of any plans to prepare for Mone’s possible return, despite false reports shared online to the contrary. While WWE has indicated interest in bringing Mone back, that is nothing new and there is no word that WWE is bringing Mone back. 

Will Mercedes Mone Become All-Elite? 

Fightful’s report states that there were tentative plans back around All In for AEW and Mone to work together, but that this is no longer active. The two sides were far apart on “terms” but it is unclear if these terms relate to the number of dates, the schedule, money, creative, or something else entirely. Contrary to what has been said on social media, the door is not closed between the two sides. 

Mone has been out of action since the NJPW Resurgence event in May of this year when she suffered an ankle injury. 

Mercedes Mone has fans eagerly awaiting word on her next move in the world of pro wrestling. 

The WWE Superstars formerly known as Sasha Banks and Naomi walked out of the company together in May 2022, relinquishing their WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles in a defiant display aimed at Vince McMahon’s booking. They have both landed in other companies after that, and Trinity is now locked into a TNA Wrestling deal. That being said, Mercedes Mone’s contract status is a much more shrouded situation.

Triple H was asked by Ariel Helwani a few months ago if Sasha Banks’ return to WWE is a possibility. His response was, “Time will tell,” which left a lot to be interpreted, especially through his bearded grin.

Fans are still waiting for an official update about Mercedes Mone’s NJPW contract status. She was once thought to be a slam dunk for Tony Khan, as she showed up at AEW All In London. She remained seated during that brief appearance at Wembley Stadium, because she was still in a walking boot. That ankle injury was real, and she is just now approaching the end of that injury hiatus.

As the 2024 Royal Rumble looms closer on January 27th, some fans are hoping to see Sasha Banks make a return to WWE. With Triple H in control, anything is possible. During a recent episode of Keeping it 100, Konnan shared his view that ‘all roads lead back to WWE’ – especially for someone like ‘Sasha Banks’ – who achieved megastardom in WWE and then branched out in Hollywood.

“She’s a big megastar, looks professional, has worked on ‘The Mandalorian,’ … she’s from their system. I said this a couple of months ago, and I’m going to repeat it again — everybody comes back to WWE.”

Bayley also admitted that she “begs” Mercedes Mone every chance she can to make a WWE return. She also posted a photo of Mercedes alongside some Damage CTRL members recently, just to stir the pot even more.

Mercedes Mone Update (Exclusive)

I have spoken to sources within WWE who have confirmed to me on three separate occasions over the past 30 days that there are no contract talks between Mercedes Mone and WWE. The creative team is also not discussing any ideas for her return to the company. That being said, this is a much different time, especially how information flows within WWE.

I was told by a tenured member of the WWE team on December 12th that, “Sasha Banks’ name will only come up when there’s a deal.” Per one source, “There’s no deal, or no deal yet.”

CM Punk’s return during the closing moments of the 2023 Survivor Series premium live event in Chicago meant a lot more than a massive pop in the Allstate Arena. It also signified that anything is really possible in WWE right now, as Triple H has obviously thrown away the old way doing a lot of things.

CM Punk’s Road Back To WWE

In April 2023, CM Punk showed up to visit with people backstage during a WWE RAW in Chicago, but Vince McMahon had him removed. Punk was also under AEW contract at the time, but no report surfaced saying that had anything to do with the reason why Mr. McMahon didn’t want Punk around. 

Triple H admitted in the press conference after Survivor Series that CM Punk’s deal came together after everyone already thought it was too late to work something out. I spoke to sources in the company during that time, and they confirmed time and time again that there were no talks, and the WWE creative team knew nothing.

CM Punk made his return to WWE, as a huge shock to the creative team as well. It’s anyone’s guess how WWE will play their hand with a possible Sasha Banks return, but it’s possible that we have another situation where only Nick Khan and Triple H are aware of the surprise before the big moment. 

Punk’s return shows the door is wide open for Sasha Banks (or Mercedes Mone) to walk right through. This is also perfect timing for the Royal Rumble, an event that is always sure to include a surprise or two. 

Keep checking back with us here at SE Scoops for more updates.

Mercedes Moné continues to grow her resume outside of professional wrestling.

As she continues her post-WWE career, Mercedes Moné looks to etch her name in several non-wrestling endeavors as well. Later this year, Moné (real name Mercedes Varnado) will make her silver screen debut, starring in the action-thriller movie, “The Collective.” Besides her ventures into the film industry, the current IWGP Women’s Champion teased the launch of a makeup line and brand this year as well. It appears that there’s much more to come in 2023, though.

On the heels of signing a contract with the United Talent Agency, Moné spoke with TMZ Sports about her upcoming outside projects. Though she didn’t specify the extent of her agenda, Moné revealed she is “absolutely doing more” in television and film.

“I just signed with UTA. I just filmed a movie in October, in the middle of training in Mexico. So, I am doing so much. I am legit booked and busy and 2023 is just going to be the year of making money,” she said. “I wish that upon everybody, I hope everybody has an amazing year of getting the bag and being a boss, banking on yourself. You have to be a CEO of your own life, so, let’s go get the bag together.”

Under the guidance of UTA, Mercedes Moné will seize more opportunities within the landscapes of film, television, theater and more. Within the television realm, Moné previously starred as Koska Reeves in the Disney+ series “The Mandalorian,” and has racked up several other appearances on shows like “Nick Cannon Presents: Wild ‘N Out” and “Barmageddon.”

Free agent Mercedes Moné and WWE talent Naomi will appear on the Bar season premiere of Bar Rescue this weekend.

Both Moné and Naomi are keeping themselves busy outside of professional wrestling. They stepped away from WWE on May 16 due to reportedly creative differences. Wrestling fans saw both participate in Fashion Week in New York last year in September. They’ve also been seen together for movie premieres and other events. However, they will soon be making their reality TV debut.

Bar Rescue will have its season 9 premiere on Feb. 26. In a clip to promote their upcoming premiere; the show put out a teaser. Wrestling fans have spotted Moné and Naomi in the episode, watching the host, Jon Taffer, berate a bar owner.

Why Were Mercedes Moné and Naomi There?

Since the teaser came out, fans have wondered why Moné and Naomi were in that bar. In response to the Public Enemies Podcast, both superstars shared what led them there. It may be a joke, but they seemingly were there to get some drinks and food. It’s unclear if they will be featured more than what was shown in the teaser.

What’s Next for Moné and Naomi?

Since they departed from WWE, they both have found success. Moné is working as a free agent and looking to compete worldwide. She recently defeated Kairi at NJPW: Battle in the Valley on Feb. 18 to win the IWGP Women’s Championship. Moné has also teased going against Impact Knockout’s Champion Mickie James in the future. She also has Stardom talent AZM is looking to take her title away.

Naomi’s status is unclear. She is still doing work outside of WWE but is still listed on their website as a Friday Night Smackdown roster member. On Jan. 19, Fightful Select reported that a source within WWE has shared they are confident she will return to the company. However, the report didn’t share when she could return to WWE.

Both Moné and Naomi seem to be enjoying their time together and pursuing other opportunities. They will appear at the Emerald City Comic Con on March 4 and 5. Wrestling fans can look forward to seeing the two on TV again on Feb. 26 on the Paramount Network channel at 10 PM ET/ 7 PM PT.

Mercedes Moné has taken another step towards monetizing her independently owned intellectual property.

On January 11, 2023, Moné filed to trademark the phrase “The CEO”, according to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database. The registration was filed under her company, Soulnado Inc.

Moné first attached “The CEO” moniker to her name on January 4th, as she made her debut for New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 17. There, she attacked IWGP Women’s Champion KAIRI, setting up a title match between the two at NJPW Battle in the Valley on February 18th (available on FITE). Now, Moné will be known as “The CEO” of the NJPW and STARDOM women’s divisions.

The newest trademark description mostly covers services related to professional wrestling and sports entertainment.

• Entertainment in the nature of wrestling contests
• Entertainment services, namely, wrestling exhibits and performances by a professional wrestler and entertainer
• Entertainment services, namely, live appearances by a professional wrestler and sports entertainer
• Entertainment services, namely, personal appearances by a professional wrestler and sports entertainment personality
• Entertainment services, namely, televised appearances by a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality
• Providing wrestling news and information via a global computer network
• Providing online interviews featuring a professional wrestling and sports entertainment personality in the field of professional wrestling and sports entertainment for entertainment purposes

Claiming Her Own Name And Fortune

Following her exit from WWE, Mercedes Moné, formerly Sasha Banks, took matters into her own hands.

Her prior employer — WWE — typically owns and controls the names and characters associated with their talent, rendering them virtually unable to utilize them outside of the company. As a result, Moné cultivated her own brand, registering a series of trademarks aligned with her vision.

Previous trademarks of Moné’s widely aimed at the merchandise categories, such as jewelry, clothing, action figures, decals and entertainment services. In addition, Moné seems to be geared down a live performance path now as well, filing her real name, Mercedes Varnado, under the description of “live performances by an actor or musician” on December 1.

Recent filings of Moné’s include the other following names:

• Mercedes Mone’
• Mone’ Talks
• Bank Mone’
• Statement Maker 
• Moné Christmas

This most recent filing is just the latest instance of Mone’ embracing the ability to be independent and grow her IP on her own terms. Outside of professional wrestling, Mone’ has been branching out into the entertainment industry, fashion and even cannabis.

New Japan’s Mercedes Moné may be the promotion’s next Women’s Champion, but she’s also ruffling some feathers backstage.

Moné debuted for New Japan last week at Wrestle Kingdom 17 by attacking IWGP Women’s Champion KAIRI after a successful title defense.

The two will face off at New Japan’s Battle in the Valley event on February 18 for the title.

Heat

Moné is one of the biggest names signed to a NJPW contract but her actions have garnered heat for the former WWE Superstar.

In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reports that some in the company believe she has been promoting Sendai Girls and Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling more than STARDOM, New Japan, and the IWGP women’s title.

On social media, Moné has shared photos of herself at the Sendai Girls dojo and said that she would love to wrestle women for that promotion and TJPW.

The feeling within NJPW is that as a contracted worker for Bushiroad (the parent company of NJPW and STARDOM,) Moné should be only promoting Bushiroad companies in Japan.

It is also reported that Moné did not attend any STARDOM events during her tenure in Japan.

Mercedes Moné in New Japan

Moné’s deal with NJPW will reportedly see her work a handful of matches a year, allowing the ex-Superstar free time to pursue other projects.

It has been reported that Moné is the highest-paid individual to ever be under contract with a Bushiroad promotion.

Moné will seemingly be allowed to seek other non-wrestling work, including being announced for ‘The Collective’ film.