Mercedes Moné is making waves in AEW, holding multiple championship titles including the AEW TBS Championship and the CMLL World Women’s Championship, cementing her status as a dominant figure. However, this growing spotlight has triggered controversy, with accusations of favoritism by AEW CEO Tony Khan causing unrest behind the scenes. The issue has sparked a backlash among colleagues and insiders wary of the imbalance it creates within the women’s division.
Vince Russo Warns That Favoritism Could Hurt AEW’s Women’s Division
Wrestling commentator Vince Russo voiced strong concerns about Khan’s overt support for Moné during a segment on Behind The Turnbuckle Studios. Russo explained that Khan’s visible enthusiasm for Moné is evident and detrimental, warning that playing favorites in a competitive environment risks alienating other talent and disrupting locker room harmony.
“You’ve got to be so careful when you’re in the position of writing the show. You can’t play favorites. You can’t play a manager of a baseball team, a coach of a basketball team at that level. Nobody’s playing favorites. It’s an even playing field.” —Vince Russo
“You can tell. I mean, you could tell the way he talks about her, the way he, you know, glows when he brings up her name. It’s no surprise, she is a favorite of Tony Khan. And that’s a curse.” —Vince Russo
He emphasized that such preferential treatment unsettles other performers, breeding resentment and fractures within the locker room culture.
“At that point, it’s not an even playing field. And at that point, the other women in the locker room are going to know she’s a favorite, and she’s getting special treatment. And that’s how problems start in your locker room, coach.” —Vince Russo
Mercedes Moné’s Upcoming Title Match Adds to the Spotlight
Moné’s rising profile continues as she prepares for a significant match against Toni Storm, the AEW Women’s World Champion. This high-stakes event is scheduled for July 14, 2025, at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, during AEW All In: Texas. The outcome of this bout is expected to further define Moné’s standing and could either exacerbate or alleviate ongoing tensions within the AEW women’s roster.
Industry Rumblings Surround Other Wrestling Stars and Contracts
While AEW grapples with favoritism concerns, the wider wrestling world is buzzing with updates about former and current WWE talent. Doubts have been cast on the return of a former WWE champion, with some speculation suggesting they may never wrestle again. Additionally, questions linger about WWE’s decision to extend the contract of an inactive ex-champion, prompting debate over roster management strategies.
Key WWE Figures Face Challenges as Storylines Evolve
Reports indicate that Roman Reigns could face career difficulties should he transition to AEW, highlighting ongoing uncertainty about cross-promotional moves. Meanwhile, Dominik Mysterio’s new relationship has drawn public interest, along with rumors about an imminent heel turn for a prominent WWE babyface following a pivotal match loss at Night of Champions.
Upcoming WWE-Saudi Arabia Events May Influence Major Pay-Per-View Schedules
WWE’s longstanding partnership with Saudi Arabia, which began in 2018, continues to impact the global wrestling calendar. The 10-year agreement guarantees premium live events held in Saudi Arabia, and this arrangement may affect the timing and logistics of the 2026 Survivor Series, underscoring the complex balancing act between international commitments and wrestling traditions.
Veteran Talent Faces Risks Amidst WWE’s Talent Management Choices
Amid managerial decisions in WWE, veteran figures have cautioned that certain athletes selected for major pushes might falter due to insufficient in-ring experience. These warnings highlight the pressures talent development faces as WWE attempts to navigate both legacy and future star power effectively.
As Mercedes Moné’s prominence in AEW grows alongside these broader wrestling developments, the tension caused by perceived favoritism could have lasting effects on locker room dynamics and the promotion’s image. Industry observers will be watching closely to see whether AEW management can address these concerns while maintaining Moné’s momentum heading into key championship events.
