In a thrilling clash for the NJPW Strong Women’s Title, Mercedes Mone and Willow Nightingale stepped into the ring, but fate had a different outcome in mind. The championship seemed tailor-made for Mercedes, yet it appears that Willow will now carry the prestigious title while the former Sasha Banks recuperates from her unfortunate injury.
Insider Sean Sapp, operating behind Fightful’s exclusive paywall, disclosed the pre-injury plans, revealing that Mercedes Mone had been slated to claim the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship at the Resurgence event. However, the extent of her current injury remains unknown.
Initially, concerns arose that Mercedes Mone might have sustained a fracture, but there is now speculation that she may have suffered a severe sprain instead.
A recent report from Fightful Select shed more light on the situation, detailing the backstage happenings surrounding the match. It was revealed that Mercedes herself called for an abrupt end to the contest and a modification to the planned finish when she realized something was amiss physically, though at that time, the injury was only identified as a leg or foot issue. Furthermore, insider sources have divulged that the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship was specifically conceived with Mercedes in mind.
While New Japan Pro Wrestling believes Mercedes suffered a severe sprain rather than a break, those close to the athlete express concerns about a potential fracture alongside the confirmed sprain. Due to excessive swelling, a definitive diagnosis is currently elusive, and the hope is that a clearer assessment can be made once the swelling subsides. As of now, there are no immediate plans for Mercedes’ return to the ring due to her injury.
Additionally, it was reported that Mercedes experienced considerable pain following the match, requiring assistance from Tamina and others to navigate backstage. Fans and fellow competitors alike eagerly await her swift recovery and triumphant return to the squared circle.
With speculation surrounding Mercedes Mone’s future, Tony Khan’s upcoming plans present a potential landing spot for the talented athlete. Khan himself remained evasive when pressed about her during the Double or Nothing media scrum, fueling further anticipation regarding her next moves. For now, everything remains at a standstill for Mercedes, but her journey in the world of professional wrestling is far from over.
