Mercedes Mone, the reigning TBS Champion, is poised for another fierce title defense as she prepares to take on Kris Statlander at AEW's highly anticipated World’s End event. Following her latest victory against Anna Jay at Holiday Bash, Mone's impressive reign has continued, having held the championship for 210 days and defending against formidable opponents.
Statlander, who has made waves within the AEW women’s division, initially challenged Mone for the TBS title at Full Gear. Their match received high praise, marking one of Mone’s standout performances of her career. Statlander proves herself as a force to be reckoned with, previously becoming the first woman to defeat Jade Cargill, who held the title for 508 consecutive days. With numerous successful defenses under her belt during her own 174-day reign, Statlander is eager for the rematch.
After laying down her challenge during Collision at the Hammerstein Ballroom, Statlander received Mone's acceptance, as the champion decided to grant Statlander her holiday wish for another bout. Mone stated, "It’s been a glittering year for Mercedes Mone as she looks to end the year as a double champion." This sentiment captures the competitive spirit between both wrestlers, setting the stage for their clash at World’s End on December 28.
The match card for World’s End is shaping up to be one for the record books, featuring other key matchups, such as Jon Moxley defending his AEW World Championship against intense challengers like Orange Cassidy and Jay White. The event also boasts Mariah May’s title defense against Thunder Rosa, taking place within the chaotic confines of a Tijuana street fight.
Mone's undefeated run since her debut at AEW's Double or Nothing showcases her incredible ascent within the company, defeating notable talents including Willow Nightingale and Britt Baker. Her continuous success enhances the anticipation surrounding her upcoming rematch with Statlander. Mone's impending match against Mina Shirakawa for the NJPW Women’s Strong Title adds another layer to her championship pursuits.
At the recent media scrum, HoA talent Red Velvet expressed her longing for the chance to face off against Mone, stating, "Are we staying in Ring of Honor or can I say anybody? Everybody wants it. Let’s go. Let’s make it happen." Velvet's excitement reflects the growing interest and allure surrounding the TBS Champion and her potential future challenges.
Pundits and fans alike recognize the stakes for Mone during the World’s End event: defending her title not only against Statlander but against the looming threat of challenges from other competitors. With close attention paid to her rivalries and performance history, Mone's standing as champion is both celebrated and challenged.
Even WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus chimed in on Mone's career during her interview with Sports Illustrated, reminiscing why she never had the opportunity to face Mone during her own wrestling prominence. Stratus remarked, "I think it didn't come because I really think people never thought I'd ever come back for another match like after the Royal Rumble." Although their paths crossing is doubtful, Stratus's acknowledgment of Mone's talent symbolizes the respect she commands across wrestling promotions.
With World’s End on the horizon, all eyes will be on Mone as she steps back inside the ring, ready to defend her title against Statlander. The anticipation surrounding this match paints not only the future of the TBS Championship but also captures the evolution of women’s wrestling within AEW.
The event promises to be packed with action, rivalries, and unexpected outcomes, making for thrilling viewing not only for AEW fans but wrestling enthusiasts everywhere. Mercedes Mone continues to pave her path as one of wrestling’s top luminaries, and her next bout will surely solidify her legacy even more within this dynamic wrestling environment.
