28-Year-Old Champion Likely to Be Sasha Banks’ First Opponent in AEW; Hints at a Potential Dream Match
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Pro wrestling fans are accustomed to the unexpected twists and turns in the world of sports entertainment. In the ever-dynamic realm of professional wrestling, it’s not uncommon for unexpected rivalries to emerge. There’s a new one brewing that has fans buzzing with anticipation. With former WWE legend Sasha Banks expected to make a debut at AEW, speculation is ongoing on who exactly she’ll be pitted against for her first match.
The consensus for Banks’ return is that she might go against the reigning AEW TBS Champion. The two have been familiar faces in the independent circuit and were rumored to face each other at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door this year. However, this did not materialize.
But with the next event scheduled for 2024 and the AEW wrestler posing an open challenge to Moné, this could mean that Banks might make her long-awaited debut opposite the 28-year-old.
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A bold challenge to Moné
When questioned about the possibility of a showdown with Mercedes Moné, Kris Statlander responded with enthusiasm, expressing her readiness to embrace the challenge. In the aftermath of the recent AEW All Out event, Kris Statlander found herself at the center of attention during a media scrum. Statlander made it clear that she was more than willing to step into the ring with Mercedes Moné should the opportunity arise.
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To delve deeper into this burgeoning rivalry, it’s essential to explore its origins. Back in June, wrestling fans witnessed a massive crossover event called “AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door.” During a podcast interview, Kris Statlander was asked whether she had plans to square off against Mercedes Mone at the event. At that time, she indicated that such a matchup wasn’t on her immediate radar.
Kris Statlander says if Mercedes Mone wants to step to her, then shes ready #AEWAllOut
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) September 4, 2023
Fast forward to the present, and the situation has evolved. Statlander recently made an appearance at AEW All-Out. Here she successfully defended her championship against Ruby Soho, signaling that she is ready to square off.
According to a tweet by WrestlePurists, Statlander had implied that she would be willing to face Banks in the arena. “Kris Statlander says if Mercedes Mone wants to step to her, then shes ready,” the tweet read. However, since Banks isn’t confirmed for AEW yet, this remains to be seen.
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When will Statlander clash with Banks?
Statlander might not have had the opportunity to face Banks in the arena. But this could change in the near future. Statlander’s interest in taking on Banks has been widely publicized. Even with Banks not at AEW, the two could still clash at the next AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door. But this will only be in 2024.
However, with the number of hints dropped, there is still some hope for fans that this might happen sooner. Mercedes Mone was spotted in London around the time of AEW All-In. This fueled rumors and theories that she might be on the cusp of joining the AEW roster.
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If this turns into reality, fans might not have to wait a whole year to see the clash between Statlander and Mercedes Mone.
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