Wrestling fans are in for a treat as AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Moné is set to step outside All Elite Wrestling for a rare independent match. The New York-based promotion House of Glory (HOG) announced that Moné will compete at its “City of Dreamz” event on March 15 at the NYC Arena. This will mark her first match outside of a major promotion since 2012, making it a highly anticipated showdown. Her opponent? None other than former WWE Superstar Indi Hartwell.
A Long-Awaited Dream Match
Despite both having history in WWE, Moné (formerly Sasha Banks) and Hartwell never faced each other in the company. However, outside the ring, they have formed a strong bond. The two have trained together regularly, with Moné even bringing Hartwell in to help her prepare for her AEW TBS Championship match against Kris Statlander in late 2024.
Interestingly, Hartwell has looked up to Moné for years. She has openly stated that Moné’s classic match against Bayley at WWE NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn in 2015 was one of the key inspirations behind her decision to become a wrestler.
Indi Hartwell’s Return to Independent Wrestling
After being released by WWE in late 2024, Hartwell has made a strong comeback to the independent scene. She recently won the Renegades of Wrestling Women’s Championship in Australia on March 9, marking her return with a major victory. Now, she faces an even bigger challenge against one of the most dominant wrestlers in the industry today.
Mercedes Moné Faces a Tough Challenge
While Moné is undoubtedly one of the top names in wrestling today—holding championships in AEW, RevPro, and NJPW—she isn’t entering this match at full strength. During her recent match against Momo Watanabe at AEW Revolution, she suffered a bruised larynx. This could impact her performance at “City of Dreamz,” giving Hartwell a potential edge in the contest.
What to Expect at HOG’s “City of Dreamz”
With Moné stepping into independent wrestling for the first time in over a decade, this match is expected to be a show-stealer. Fans will get to see two incredibly talented wrestlers battle it out in a rare, one-of-a-kind match-up. Will Hartwell pull off an upset, or will “The CEO” continue her dominant run despite her recent injury?
FAQs
When is Mercedes Moné vs. Indi Hartwell taking place?
The match is set for March 15, 2025, at House of Glory’s ‘City of Dreamz’ event at the NYC Arena.
Is this Mercedes Moné’s first independent wrestling match in years?
Yes, this will be her first independent match since 2012, making it a highly anticipated return to the indie scene.
What championships does Mercedes Moné currently hold?
Mercedes Moné is the AEW TBS Champion and also holds titles in RevPro and New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW).
Has Indi Hartwell faced Mercedes Moné before?
No, despite both having been in WWE, they never crossed paths in the ring before this match.
What injury is Mercedes Moné currently dealing with?
Moné suffered a bruised larynx during her match with Momo Watanabe at AEW Revolution, but she is still scheduled to compete.
Is Indi Hartwell still with WWE?
No, Indi Hartwell was released by WWE in late 2024 and has since returned to independent wrestling, recently winning the Renegades of Wrestling Women’s Championship.