Mercedes Moné shoots down the reports that her contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling is coming to an end this weekend.
IWGP Women’s Champion Mercedes Moné recently sat down with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated to discuss a wide variety of subjects. When asked about the recent reports that her contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling would expire following her upcoming match with Mayu Iwatani, Moné said these rumors are so far from the truth.
“The rumors are so far from the truth,” Mercedes Moné said. “If it’s not coming from me or my voice, then how does anyone else know my business? None of it is true unless it is coming from me. It’s just a reminder that I’m a conversation starter.”
The former WWE Superstar recently stated that she wants to move to Japan full-time; when asked about that, Moné confirmed that Japan is her new home and is currently embracing the way of life over there.
“This is my new home,” Mercedes Moné said. “I’m embracing the way of life. I’m riding the train, I’m eating the food. I’m not here for a quick second. I have a kitchen in my apartment, but when I go out, I’m eating yakiniku. It’s this amazing barbecue. I’ve been enjoying everything. The pancakes are amazing, too. This has become my second home. And I’m committed to staying here to make history.”
Mercedes Moné has been able to show off a different in-ring style in 2023 compared to how she competed in WWE. Moné said she’s out to prove that she’s not just the best women’s wrestler in North America but that she’s the best women’s wrestler in the world.
“I’m not just the best in North America. I’m the best in the world,” Mercedes Moné said. “I am making that statement in Japan. Women belong in this sport. I grew up watching bra-and-panties matches, but Japan had these hard-hitting, physical, violent women’s matches.”
When asked about her upcoming title defense against Mayu Iwatani at Stardom’s All Star Grand Queendom, Moné said this is a match she’s very much looking forward to.
“I am so looking forward to this,” Mercedes Moné said. “Mayu has won every major championship in this company, except for my IWGP women’s championship. And I’m going to make sure that remains the same. Mayu is an icon, but she’s not me.”
READ MORE: Mercedes Moné Says She’s Definitely Moving Full-Time To Japan
What do you make of Mercedes Moné’s comments? Are you excited about her match against Mayu Iwatani this weekend? Let us know your thoughts by sounding off in the comments section below.
