Mercedes Mone “Definitely Moving Full Time To Japan”

Written by Craig Ballantyne • Published 18th April 2023
Mercedes Mone

Mercedes Mone made her Japanese wrestling debut at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17 back in January. There, she attacked the first IWGP Women’s Champion, KAIRI before demanding a title match.

The pair clashed weeks later at Battle in the Valley in San Jose, California and The CEO walked out as the champ after a bout that was widely praised by fans and critics alike.

Mone then had her first title defence back in Japan at Sakura Genesis in April, successfully seeing off top STARDOM stars, AZM and Hazuki in another classic.

Immediately after her victory, Mone was challenged by Mayu Iwatani. The two are on a collision course for STARDOM All Star Grand Queendom on April 23rd.

Now, it seems that the country of Japan has captured Mone’s heart, as in a recent Instagram story, she claimed that she not only wants to learn Japanese, but move there “full time”.

Mercedes Mone reportedly negotiating for another match

The timing of Mercedes Mone’s announcement is interesting as it is widely believed that her current contract with NJPW and STARDOM will come to an end after her match on April 23rd.

However, Dave Meltzer has reported on Wrestling Observer Radio that she is currently in negotiations for at least one more match.

“Her final match of her current contract is the match this coming Sunday at the Yokohama Arena against Mayu (Iwatani) for the IWGP Women’s Title, but they… I do not know if the deal is done, it was not done the last I was told, but she is in talks for one more date.” (H/t to Wrestle Talk)

Mone has already hinted about what her future might hold, with her recently taking to social media to ask about potential opponents in the UK.

“Who is the best women’s wrestler in the U.K?”