Background

Mercedes Moné (formerly Sasha banks in WWE) ⁣has publicly stated her intention to return to professional wrestling in Japan,specifically targeting New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s (NJPW) Wrestle Kingdom⁣ 20 event. This announcement, made during ⁢an​ Instagram Live session, signals her continued‍ ambition to compete on the‍ international stage following a significant‍ injury.

Moné’s⁢ History⁣ with ⁤NJPW

mercedes Moné has‌ a ⁢notable history with NJPW, having held both the IWGP Women’s Championship‍ and ‌the NJPW STRONG Women’s‍ Championship. She debuted for NJPW in January 2023, quickly ⁤establishing herself as a top star. Her run‌ was unfortunately ⁣cut short by an injury sustained in May 2024 during a match against Willow ‍nightingale at New Japan Windy City, requiring surgery.

Prior​ to her injury, Moné’s arrival in NJPW was considered a landmark moment for‌ women’s wrestling in Japan, attracting significant attention and boosting the ⁢profile of the promotion’s women’s division. She defeated KAIRI​ to win the IWGP Women’s Championship at Wrestle Kingdom​ 17 on January 1, 2023.

The Instagram ⁣Live Announcement

The announcement came during an Instagram ⁢Live session, as reported ‍by Fightful. Responding​ to a fan question, Moné‍ expressed⁢ her​ eagerness to return ‌to Japan​ and compete‍ at Wrestle Kingdom 20. While she did not provide a specific ​timeline for‌ her return,‌ the mention of Wrestle Kingdom 20 indicates a target timeframe of January 4-5, 2025.

wrestle Kingdom 20: A Potential Stage

Wrestle Kingdom is NJPW’s biggest annual event, held⁢ at the Tokyo Dome. Wrestle Kingdom 20, scheduled‌ for‍ January ‍4th and 5th,‌ 2025, would provide a massive platform​ for Moné’s return. The event consistently draws ⁢large‌ crowds and receives ‍significant international⁤ media coverage.

The card for Wrestle Kingdom ⁣20 is likely to be highly‍ competitive, featuring NJPW’s top⁤ stars and perhaps attracting other international ⁢talent. Moné’s presence would ⁣undoubtedly add another layer of excitement and prestige to the event.

Recovery and Future Prospects

Moné’s return is contingent upon her full recovery from the ⁢injury she sustained‍ in May ‍2024. The​ nature of the injury required surgery,and the​ rehabilitation process is expected to be lengthy. Her ability to regain her previous ‌form and compete at‌ a high level will be⁤ crucial for a triumphant return.

Beyond Wrestle Kingdom 20, Moné’s long-term plans in NJPW remain unclear.⁤ Though, her previous success ‌and popularity ⁢suggest that she coudl become ⁢a central figure in ‍the promotion’s women’s division once again.