Decisions in the realm of professional wrestling have the power to either advance or hinder both careers and promotions. AEW, led by Tony Khan, has been a powerful catalyst for transformation, disrupting the wrestling world with its groundbreaking methods. One strategy was to include Mercedes Mone, previously recognized as Sasha Banks in WWE, and give her authority over creative decisions. However, is this choice beginning to reveal weaknesses?
Mercedes Mone: a shining star in her own regard
Mercedes Mone joining AEW signified a major change in the women’s division, as she brought extensive experience and a fan following from her time in WWE. Her exit from WWE in May 2022, along with Naomi, caused a stir in the wrestling world. Her departure stemmed from creative frustrations and the sense that her skills were not being fully utilized.
Mone consistently spoke out about her challenges in WWE, especially regarding the limitations imposed on her.One such instance was her difficulty in balancing her wrestling career with her role in The Mandalorian. WWE’s reluctance to accommodate her outside projects was reportedly like “pulling teeth,” according to Mone herself. The transition to AEW, where she was promised more creative freedom, seemed like a dream come true. But dreams in the wrestling world often come with a price.
Eric Bischoff’s candid take: a controversial stance
Introducing Eric Bischoff, a figure known for stirring up controversy in the wrestling industry. Bischoff didn’t hesitate to share his thoughts on Mone’s situation during his 83 Weeks podcast. His stance? Giving Mone creative control was a misstep by Tony Khan.
Bischoff didn’t mince words, highlighting what he saw as a glaring weakness in Mone’s wrestling persona—her promo skills. “WWE knew how to utilize Sasha Banks’ strengths,” Bischoff explained. “But more importantly, they understood her limitations and produced her around them. Tony Khan, on the other hand, handed her the ball, giving her creative control. And what has that led to? A wrestler who believes she’s a great promo, when in reality, every time she opens her mouth, her stock goes down.”
Bischoff’s critique cuts deep, touching on the delicate balance between creative freedom and guidance. In WWE, Mone was shielded from her weaknesses, with the company crafting her persona to highlight her strengths—chiefly, her in-ring prowess. But in AEW, with the reins in her own hands, those weaknesses are laid bare.
The pitfalls of creative control: a double-edged sword
Creative control in wrestling is a coveted yet perilous privilege. For a star like Mone, who has long sought more input into her character and storylines, it might seem like the ultimate reward. But as Bischoff suggests, it can also be a burden, especially when the talent doesn’t recognize their own limitations.
Tony Khan’s choice to give Mone such authority was clearly motivated by her prominent reputation and the aim to draw in a larger audience. Nevertheless, responsibility accompanies this power, and mishandling it can lead to serious consequences. Mone’s confidence in her promotional skills, despite evidence suggesting otherwise, brings into question whether AEW’s leadership thoroughly considered the potential risks before proceeding with this choice.
Is Mone’s creative control at risk of becoming a ticking time bomb in the future?
As AEW expands and develops, the issue of maximizing its talent’s potential becomes more crucial. The case of Mercedes Mone demonstrates the risks of giving creative freedom without adequate supervision. Rumors are circulating in the wrestling world that Tony Khan might have to renegotiate Mone’s contract, specifically focusing on the clauses giving her creative authority.
But the situation is complicated. Reports have surfaced suggesting that Mone may not have as much control as she claims, with some insiders speculating that her statements could be part of her character work rather than the actual reality of her role within AEW. This uncertainty only adds to the tension surrounding her involvement in the company.
A lesson in wrestling dynamics
Mercedes Mone’s story in AEW is nowhere near its end. As fans and critics discuss her role and influence on creative decisions, it’s evident that wrestling’s backstage dynamics are just as important as the action in the ring. Tony Khan’s choice to grant Mone the independence she desired may have been with good intentions, but as the old saying goes, “the path to hell is laid with good intentions.”
The upcoming months will be key in deciding if this risk will be successful or if it will result in AEW experiencing remorse. Currently, the wrestling community observes and anticipates the outcome for one of its most prominent figures. What are your thoughts? Is Mercedes Mone’s creative control a stroke of brilliance or a potential disaster waiting to happen? Please leave your thoughts in the comment section.
