Mercedes Moné, a multi-title holder and prominent figure in All Elite Wrestling, issued an open challenge on AEW Dynamite that has stirred conversations about a possible return of a notable WWE star. This event took place ahead of AEW’s special edition of Dynamite next Tuesday, generating significant speculation about the challenger’s identity and potential match outcomes.
Open Challenge Ignites Talk of WWE Star’s AEW Debut
After Mercedes Moné’s public challenge on AEW Dynamite, former WWE wrestler Shotzi hinted she could be stepping into the AEW ring soon. Shotzi’s reaction to a TBS Champion Twitter post, which called for local Floridians to step forward as opponents, included eye-ball emojis suggesting her interest. Mercedes responded with a smirking face emoji and the word “Oh,” further fueling rumors about Shotzi possibly accepting the challenge for next week.
Shotzi, who was released by WWE on May 3, 2025, has since returned to the Independent circuit and debuted with Major League Wrestling. Whether her social media hints will lead to an official AEW debut remains to be seen, but the interaction between the two wrestlers has raised fans’ expectations.
Oh ?— Mercedes Moné Varnado (@MercedesVarnado) October 2, 2025
Fans Suggest New Opponents, Including WWE Veterans
Following the announcement of the open challenge, fans began voicing their opinions on who Mercedes Moné should face. Among these suggestions was WWE veteran Kelly Kelly, with fans referencing a Women’s Royal Rumble moment in which Sasha Banks eliminated Kelly Kelly from the top rope. A fan urged Kelly Kelly to debut in AEW to seek revenge against Moné.
Mercedes’s reaction to this idea was a money face emoji, which many interpreted as a sign of her willingness to take on Kelly Kelly. This exchange adds layers to the speculation around potential matchups involving Moné, showcasing her openness to confront established WWE veterans now possible opponents in AEW.
?— Mercedes Moné Varnado (@MercedesVarnado) October 2, 2025
Mercedes Moné’s Challenge Reflects Broader AEW-WWE Dynamics
Mercedes Moné’s AEW challenge highlights the fluid nature of wrestling talent movement between promotions, particularly with WWE veterans now exploring opportunities in AEW and other circuits. Shotzi’s hints and fan interest in matches against WWE stars like Kelly Kelly underscore the growing tension and potential anticipation around such cross-promotional encounters.
As AEW continues to host special events and welcome new talent, the outcome of this challenge next Tuesday could mark a significant moment, possibly ushering in new rivalries and further blurring promotional boundaries. Fans and analysts alike will closely watch these developments to gauge how AEW positions itself against WWE’s legacy stars in the wrestling landscape.
Oh 😏
— Mercedes Moné Varnado (@MercedesVarnado) October 2, 2025
🤑
— Mercedes Moné Varnado (@MercedesVarnado) October 2, 2025
