Mercedes Mone's Strategic AEW Signing: The Inside Story
Mercedes Mone made her debut for AEW at Big Business in Boston on March 13. This debut was expected, but there is a lot more to it.
A lot of things went into Mercedes Mone's debut for AEW. It was quite a road, but now she is All Elite, but how long has this deal been underway? It appears that she was associated with AEW for months prior to her debut.
Mercedes Mone made her official debut as a member of the All Elite Wrestling roster at Big Business on March 13, but reports suggest she's been associated with AEW for over two months prior. According to Sean Ross Sapp on Fightful Select, negotiations began well before her debut, with some indicating that discussions began as early as December when Mercedes secured several trademarks related to her name. Although details about the contract remain unconfirmed, it's believed to be a multi-year agreement.
Furthermore, it's been suggested that New Japan Pro Wrestling played a role in the negotiations, expecting to continue working with Mercedes extensively. However, it's understood that AEW will be her primary focus. Mercedes endured a severe injury in May, which required two surgeries and a lengthy recovery period, preventing her from immediate in-ring action.
In the lead-up to her debut, there were initial talks between Mercedes and AEW, but they didn't come to fruition. At one point, she explored options with WWE, but discussions stalled, leading to her eventual departure. Despite speculation about her potential appearances elsewhere, it became evident that AEW was the likely destination.
As discussions resumed in January, there were considerations for Mercedes' debut, with dates in early January initially discussed. However, her physical clearance delayed these plans. Ultimately, AEW orchestrated her debut at the Big Business event in Boston without formal announcement, setting the stage for her introduction to the AEW audience.
Amid rumors about a potential match with Giulia at NJPW Battle In The Valley, sources within NJPW reportedly refuted these claims, clarifying that no plans were made for her participation.
By the time of the WWE Royal Rumble, expectations were reportedly high for Mercedes' AEW debut, with many within the wrestling community anticipating her arrival. The buildup to her debut at the Boston TD Garden show solidified her transition to the AEW roster, confirming her departure from WWE and setting the stage for her future endeavors in AEW.
