Sasha Banks debuted in New Japan as Mercedes Moné (Picture: WWE)
Sasha Banks has become Mercedes Moné as she revealed her dramatic new hairstyle at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17.
The former WWE superstar hasn’t been seen on a wrestling show since May 2022 when she and her then-tag team partner Naomi walked out of an episode of Monday Night Raw over creative differences, but now she is ready to make a splash in Japan.
On Wednesday’s huge show at the Tokyo Dome, the CEO – whose real name is Mercedes Varnado – made her debut for New Japan Pro Wrestling and laid down a challenge for IWGP Women’s Champion KAIRI.
The champ retained her gold in a brief six minute win over Tam Nakano before the lights dropped and Moné made her epic entrance, showing off fresh gear and new locks.
Her typical blue colour was highlighted with flame coloured spots in a cheetah print style, and she has given fans another look on Twitter and Instagram after making it clear she’s in Japan for NJPW and STARDOM.
After laying out KAIRI, she said: ‘Congratulations on making history tonight. I also know a thing or two about making history. I am here in New Japan and STARDOM to make some more.
‘Allow me to introduce myself. I’m the standard, the conversation, the blueprint and the CEO of this women’s division.
‘So KAIRI… enjoy your IWGP Women’s Championship while you can. Because at Battle in the Valley in San Jose, I’m gonna leave you bankrupt b***h. And you can bank on Moné.’
She also made it clear on Twitter that she’s coming for the gold, as she captioned her photo: ‘This is what I want! #wk17 #njpw #STARDOM’
Fans and fellow stars were quick to react to her big moment, with WWE superstar Bayley simply tweeting: ‘MONÉ’
A fan wrote: ‘Sasha Banks’ era is over but Mercedes Mine’s era just started! Welcome back to the CEO of the Stardom’s company! MERCEDES MONE’!!! (sic)’
Another admirer added: ‘That Lil Kim Inspired Colored Hair Mercedes Mon’e Debuted at Wrestle Kingdom Tonight was FIRE. Her Rebirth in @njpwglobal gonna be SAVAGE ??? (sic)’