Kris Statlander recently shared insights about her dynamic connection with Mercedes Moné AEW motivation during a detailed discussion. Known for their fierce competition, the two wrestlers have faced each other multiple times in AEW, creating some of the most memorable moments in women’s wrestling.
Their rivalry dates back to 2024, when Moné defeated Statlander in two pay-per-view encounters. However, at AEW Full Gear 2025, Statlander reclaimed momentum by defending her AEW Women’s Championship against Moné. This trilogy of matches received acclaim for its storytelling and in-ring quality, marking both athletes as top-tier megastars in the promotion.
Statlander Reflects on Her Partnership and Motivation From Mercedes Moné
During a recent interview with Chris Van Vliet on INSIGHT, Statlander addressed questions about wrestling chemistry with other stars. She explained that her focus is on delivering her best performance rather than seeking chemistry with opponents.
“I feel so weird about this chemistry question. I’ve actually gotten this a few times because I don’t ever really look for chemistry with someone. I look for myself being the best performer for my opponent.” ? Kris Statlander, Former AEW Women’s Champion
When asked about her biggest inspirer in AEW, Statlander pointed to Moné, highlighting how the CEO’s passion for wrestling has deeply motivated her. She emphasized that working well with colleagues is more meaningful to her than titles alone.
“I know a lot of people are probably going to say Mercedes. And, you know, I love working with her. She’s motivated me in ways that I could never explain, because of just her talent and her passion for wrestling also. But I don’t know. I feel like I try my best to work well with a lot of people and to be someone that people want to work with. So that’s more rewarding to me than, you know, any title really could be. The fact that people want to work with me is very special.” ? Kris Statlander, Former AEW Women’s Champion
Mercedes Moné’s Focus on Recovery and Future Matches
Following her TBS Championship loss to Willow Nightingale and a difficult aftermath on AEW Dynamite, Mercedes Moné has chosen to step back temporarily to focus on healing. She recently shared that she is in Cancun, Mexico, where she is undergoing stem cell therapy sessions at RejuveStem to aid her recovery and prepare for upcoming challenges.
Moné’s return is anticipated in March 2026 as she is scheduled to compete in multiple matches defending various titles across different countries, highlighting her ongoing commitment to wrestling beyond AEW.
Impact of the Statlander-Moné Rivalry on AEW’s Women’s Division
The fierce competition between Kris Statlander and Mercedes Moné has raised the bar for women’s wrestling in AEW, offering fans high-caliber matches packed with emotion and technical skill. Their trilogy of bouts not only elevated their own standings but also contributed significantly to the visibility and importance of the AEW Women’s Championship.
As Moné recuperates and prepares for future bouts, the wrestling community eagerly awaits how her renewed energy will influence upcoming storylines and rivalries, potentially setting up new chapters in AEW’s evolving landscape.
Kris Statlander: Mercedes Mone has ‘motivated me in ways I could never explain’ https://t.co/fign69ozVt pic.twitter.com/Ofk2JlQzrP
— Wrestling Observer (@WONF4W) March 3, 2026
