Mercedes Moné will make her first title defense since capturing the CMLL Women’s World Championship, taking on challenger La Catalina at CMLL FantasticaMania Mexico on Friday, June 20 at Arena México. With Moné’s victory fresh from AEW Grand Slam Mexico, all eyes are on her as she works to solidify her reign against a determined opponent, underlining the prestige of Mercedes Moné defending CMLL Women’s World Championship in one of lucha libre’s biggest events.
First Challenger Steps Up After Grand Slam Triumph
After winning the championship in dramatic fashion at AEW Grand Slam Mexico, Mercedes Moné was quickly confronted by Catalina, who demanded a shot at the gold. The backstage encounter was brief but intense, with Mercedes brushing off her challenger as she concluded her celebration. That interaction set the stage for Friday night’s main event in Mexico City, where anticipation is building for a heated clash.
Official Match Announcement and Challenge Acceptance
The match was made official when both Mercedes Moné and La Catalina publicly accepted the challenge, confirming their bout for June 20. News of the matchup was shared widely by Lucha Libre CMLL, highlighting the significance of the title defense and the rivalry between the competitors.
⌛️ ¡RETO ACEPTADO! Tras conquistar el Campeonato Mundial Femenil del CMLL, Mercedes Moné ha aceptado el desafío de La Catalina.Ambas luchadoras se verán las caras en FantasticaMania México. Arena México ️ Viernes 20 de Junio ’25 8:30 p.m. ️ https://t.co/sEn6PDZDgP pic.twitter.com/oEWns8XwgB— Lucha Libre CMLL (@CMLL_OFICIAL) June 19, 2025
CMLL confirmed that both athletes are set for a showdown at the renowned Arena México. The new champion’s schedule is already filled with challenges, underscoring how quickly the competition intensifies at the top of the division.
New championship won — and a new challenger already found for this Friday Night!While NEW @CMLL_OFICIAL World Women’s Champion @MercedesVarnado was celebrating her victory, she was confronted by CMLL’s @LaCatalinagar, who’s looking for a fight. And Mercedes has accepted the… pic.twitter.com/hCRsUpUWRE— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) June 19, 2025
La Catalina’s Championship Pursuit and Recent Highlights
La Catalina enters the title match after an active stretch of competition, recently challenging for the ROH TV Championship against Red Velvet and contending for the world title held by Athena. While unsuccessful in those bids, she has built momentum by defeating competitors such as Lady Frost, Viva Van, Taya Valkyrie, and Trish Adora. Catalina’s recent victory over Toni Storm at Arena México adds another layer of intrigue to her credentials.
Stellar Lineup for FantasticaMania Mexico
The championship battle between Mercedes Moné and La Catalina headlines a stacked card for CMLL FantasticaMania Mexico. Notable matches include:
1. Mistico & Mascara Dorada vs. Bandido & Hologram
2. CMLL Women’s World Championship: Mercedes Moné (c) vs. La Catalina
3. Volador Jr. vs. Ricochet
4. Neon vs. Kevin Knight in a Lightning Match
5. Los Ingobernables de Japon (Hiromu Takahashi, Shingo Takagi, & Titan) vs. United Empire (TJP, Francesco Akira, & Templario)
6. Ultimo Guerrero vs. Yota Tsuji
7. Magnus, Rugido, Zandokan Jr., & Difunto vs. Rocky Romero, Lio Rush, Action Andretti, & Robbie X
8. La Jarochita vs. Thunder Rosa
9. Kira vs. Red Velvet
Fans can watch the action live via the Leyenda subscription tier on the CMLL YouTube channel, with coverage beginning at 8:30 p.m. on Friday night.
What This Means for the Women’s Division
Mercedes Moné defending CMLL Women’s World Championship against La Catalina immediately after winning the title demonstrates how fierce the competition is at the top of the women’s division. The outcome will set the direction for future contenders and further define the landscape of CMLL’s women’s wrestling. With high-profile names like Athena, Red Velvet, and Toni Storm in the mix, and rising stars such as Kira and Lady Frost, the stakes remain high heading into FantasticaMania Mexico.
