This week, Mercedes Moné title loss stunned wrestling fans at AEW’s Worlds End event, as she and Athena suffered a defeat in the AEW Women’s Tag Team Championship match. Competing against the teams of Harley Cameron and Willow Nightingale, the high-stakes encounter ended dramatically when Willow pinned Moné, allowing her team to retain the titles after their first successful defense. The loss not only surprised the audience but also led to tension between Moné and Athena, as the two exchanged words amidst the champions’ celebrations.
Backstage Reaction: Moné’s Anger and Warning for Willow Nightingale
Following the defeat, a prominent AEW correspondent attempted to get an immediate reaction from Moné near her locker room. Uncharacteristically, Moné lost her cool, shouting in frustration and throwing objects before facing reporters. She firmly rejected the narrative that the year had been unkind to her and quickly reminded the press of her accolades, including being named PWI’s and Sports Illustrated’s top wrestler of the year. Directing her attention to Willow Nightingale, Moné issued a fierce warning about their upcoming confrontation at Dynamite’s New Year’s Smash event.
“2025 hasn’t been good to me? Did I hear that correctly? Ultimo Moné, a global icon, PWI’s #1 wrestler of the year, Sports Illustrated’s #1 wrestler of the year, and the greatest TBS Champion of all time. 2025 hasn’t been good to me, Lexi? I do not want to hear about Willow Nightingale. Do you understand me? You know what, this week on Dynamite, Willow, at New Year’s Smash, I’m gonna beat your f**king ass,”
Moné said.
— Moné, AEW star, via AEW (transcript H/T Sportskeeda)
Recent Streak of Losses Intensifies Pressure on Moné
The defeat at Worlds End adds to a string of recent setbacks for Mercedes Moné. Earlier this season, she lost the ROH Women’s World Television title to Red Velvet during ROH Final Battle, weakening her grasp over championship gold. Shortly after, she issued an open challenge during the Holiday Bash episode of Collision for her RevPro Undisputed British Women’s Championship, which was answered by Alex Windsor. Windsor managed to secure a win, delivering another blow to Moné’s champion status.
What Lies Ahead for Mercedes Moné?
With multiple championship losses occurring in quick succession, the future is uncertain for Moné. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see whether she can regain her championship form, especially given her strong reaction and public vow to defeat Willow Nightingale at the New Year’s Smash edition of Dynamite. As Moné approaches her rematch, the wrestling community anticipates a high-octane encounter that could mark a turning point in her turbulent year.
FRUSTRATION BOILING OVER!
Calling @MercedesVarnado frustrated doesn’t even cover it. Now she’s hunting redemption this Wednesday at New Year’s Smash and has issued a challenge to @willowwrestles!Watch #AEWWorldsEnd on HBO Max PPV pic.twitter.com/ucupB8Apka
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) December 28, 2025
