Mercedes Moné AEW Worlds End controversy escalated after her recent denial of defeat at the year-end event, as discussions intensified among the wrestling community on the legitimacy of her claim. The situation unfolded when Moné refuted the widely witnessed outcome of her high-profile tag team match in late December 2025.
Disputed Outcome Raises Questions at AEW Worlds End
On the final major All Elite Wrestling (AEW) card of 2025, Mercedes Moné—serving as the reigning TBS Champion—joined forces with Ring of Honor Women’s World Champion Athena in pursuit of greater glory. Their opposition consisted of the AEW Women’s World Tag Team Champions, The Babes of Wrath. In a match that drew significant attention, Willow Nightingale managed to counter Moné’s signature Moné Maker maneuver, ultimately pinning Moné for the victory. This decisive moment resulted in disappointment from Athena, who reportedly questioned her partner’s performance after the bell.
“I never lost, I just ran out of time *1 emoji,*”
—Mercedes Moné, in a public post reflecting her perspective on the match outcome.
Despite Moné’s online insistence, official results record her as defeated, making her next move a title defense against Willow Nightingale on the upcoming episode of AEW Dynamite. This matchup is anticipated to carry the narrative tension from the Worlds End contention directly into their championship clash.
Moné Confronts Critics After Record-Breaking Year
Following the contentious AEW Worlds End outcome, Mercedes Moné addressed critics in the latest issue of MonéMag, underscoring her achievements throughout the year. The accomplished champion referenced her record-breaking quest, particularly surpassing Ultimo Dragon’s longstanding record—a feat that cemented her reputation across international wrestling circuits.
“Breaking Ultimo Dragon’s record and becoming 13 Belts Moné was one of the greatest accomplishments of my life—and it was not easy,”
—Mercedes Moné, detailing her championship journey.
Moné further elaborated on her competitive philosophy, sharing how relentless title defenses around the globe have contributed to her enduring legacy as a fighting champion. Her comments addressed detractors, emphasizing results and personal standards over external opinions.
“Whether I was wrestling in front of 500 people or 5,000, I gave everything I had as a fighting champion and an even hungrier competitor. This body of work defines my legacy. Why would I acknowledge the critics? The goal is shown. It’s been shown. And for the people that can’t see it, it’s on them.”
—Mercedes Moné, on handling criticism and legacy.
What Awaits as AEW Moves Into 2026
The debate over Mercedes Moné’s AEW Worlds End defeat and her subsequent statements has become a polarizing issue among fans and commentators. As Moné prepares to defend her TBS Championship against Willow Nightingale—the very competitor who pinned her at Worlds End—the attention on her next match is greater than ever. Observer interest remains strong regarding whether Moné’s approach will help her retain her title or signal a changing of the guard heading into the new year. With high-profile achievements and sharp responses to critics, Moné’s actions continue to fuel discussion around what it means to be a true champion in contemporary wrestling.
.@AthenaPalmer_FG is feeling a certain way about @MercedesVarnado!
Watch #AEWWorldsEnd on HBO Max PPV pic.twitter.com/j2uIHXxZvh
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) December 28, 2025
