Mercedes Moné AEW Worlds End defeat with Athena led to a dramatic emotional fallout backstage, following their loss to Willow Nightingale and Harley Cameron. The tense atmosphere after the match highlighted Moné’s frustration and her determination to seek redemption as AEW gears up for its Dynamite New Year’s Smash event.
Championship Match Sparks High Emotions
During AEW Worlds End, Mercedes Moné and Athena teamed up to challenge the reigning AEW Women’s Tag Team Champions, Willow Nightingale and Harley Cameron. Moné paid homage to the Chicago Bulls through her ring attire, adding a personal touch to the anticipated matchup. Despite their efforts, the team of Moné and Athena fell short when Moné was pinned by Nightingale. The final move unfolded as Moné attempted her signature Moné Maker, but Nightingale reversed it into a quick roll-up, sealing the win for the champions.
Backstage Reaction: Moné’s Intense Disappointment
The aftermath revealed the depth of Moné’s disappointment, as she left the ring visibly upset. Her anger escalated backstage, where she stormed into her green room and vented her frustration by breaking a mirror and smashing a television. This outburst captured her deep emotional response to the loss and her high expectations for herself and her tag team partnership with Athena.
Moné Challenges Willow Nightingale for Redemption
After regaining her composure, Moné made it clear her focus had shifted from the defeat to redemption. Rather than dwelling on her 2025 performance, she challenged Willow Nightingale to a singles match at AEW Dynamite’s New Year’s Smash, declaring she intended to decisively defeat her former opponent. This development set the stage for a high-stakes showdown and promises renewed intensity in their rivalry.
“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
Looking Ahead to AEW Dynamite’s New Year’s Smash
The fallout from AEW Worlds End has positioned Moné, Nightingale, Harley Cameron, and Athena at the center of the promotion’s ongoing women’s division storylines. The announcement of Moné’s challenge signals an escalation in her quest for vindication and could reshape upcoming competitions for the AEW Women’s Tag Team and singles division, promising fans a compelling start to the new 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
