Alexa Bliss created a stir among wrestling fans when she unexpectedly mentioned a top AEW star during WWE’s recent event, NXT: Homecoming. The shoutout, highlighting Athena—formerly known as Ember Moon in WWE—brought renewed attention to the connection between the two rivals and delighted many viewers.
The sports entertainment giant hosted NXT: Homecoming as a tribute to the former stars who helped build the brand’s success. The event showcased appearances by notable names such as Finn Balor, Carmelo Hayes, Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair, and Alexa Bliss herself. During her segment, Bliss acknowledged numerous wrestlers, including IYO Sky, Nia Jax, Shayna Baszler, and notably Athena, an AEW woman making waves beyond WWE.
Following the broadcast, social media erupted with fans reacting enthusiastically to the surprise mention of Ember Moon’s current AEW persona. This gesture was seen by many as a sign of enduring camaraderie despite the competitive backdrop between WWE and AEW.
Fan Excitement Grows Over Alexa Bliss’s AEW Reference
The mention of Ember Moon’s name on WWE programming caught many by surprise and led to a wave of positive responses online. Fans on platforms like X expressed their approval and appreciation for Bliss’s shoutout, highlighting the warmth and respect between the two stars. While the wrestling world often focuses on heated rivalries, moments like this remind audiences of personal bonds and mutual recognition.
“I was happy to hear Ember’s name…loved it. 🙏🙏🫶🫶,” wrote one fan.
“so damn fine 🔥”, quipped another.
Response from Athena After Alexa Bliss’s Mention
Athena, who held the NXT Women’s Championship and was a key figure during NXT’s celebrated black-and-gold era, replied to Bliss’s shoutout with gratitude. Now competing as the ROH Women’s World Champion under AEW’s banner, Athena acknowledged the mention on social media. She posted a GIF of herself alongside Bliss, paired with a message that affectionately called Bliss “Pixie,” a nod to Bliss’s fairy-princess character years ago in NXT.
“Thank ya pixie !!! @AlexaBliss_WWE,” wrote Athena.
Her reaction not only confirmed the friendly relationship between the two competitors but also sparked curiosity about her next appearance in AEW and potential storylines involving both promotions.
Understanding the Significance of the AEW-WWE Cross-Promotion Mention
The unexpected shoutout from Bliss to an AEW star highlights a rare moment of goodwill between workers from competing organizations. With AEW continuing to rise as a fresh alternative to WWE, these public acknowledgments can influence fan perceptions and open possibilities for future collaboration or shared respect among performers. This interaction also heightens anticipation about how stars like Athena might navigate their careers across promotions.
As the wrestling industry remains fiercely competitive, moments that highlight mutual respect and recognition resonate strongly with audiences, reinforcing the humanity behind the personas fans admire.
Alexa Bliss’s mention of Athena stands as a subtle yet impactful gesture that transcends brand rivalry, potentially paving the way for more open acknowledgment of talent regardless of their current platforms. With both stars maintaining a friendship, even as they represent different companies, fans can look forward to watching their journeys unfold with renewed enthusiasm.
Charlotte mentioned the Four Horsewomen, Paige, Asuka, Carmella and Alexa Bliss
Bliss mentioned Ember Moon as well#WWENXT pic.twitter.com/eOGQhPyspv
— CrispyWrestling (@CrispyWrestlin) September 17, 2025
I was happy to hear Ember's name…loved it. 🙏🙏🫶🫶
— Garrett (@Artemis_316) September 17, 2025
so damn fine 🔥
— Diana Angel (@Diana_Angelv) September 17, 2025
