Rumor killer regarding TBS Champion Mercedes Mone’s ongoing push in AEW

AEW star Mercedes Mone currently holds multiple championships including the TBS title and Strong women’s title. This has fueled internet speculation that Mercedes has creative control.

However, sources within AEW and NJPW have denied claims to Fightful Select and stated that they’ve never heard of Mercedes having creative control. A Fightful source noted that Mercedes “hasn’t turned down losing, because losing hasn’t even been broached. Both companies had plans to push her heavily.” It was added that “any perception of Mercedes having creative control [might] be largely in character.”

Mercedes is scheduled to face Jamie Hayter in the final match of the 2025 women’s Owen Hart tournament at AEW Double or Nothing on Sunday, May 25th.

Renee Paquette sits down with the TBS Champion, Mercedes Moné, to get her thoughts on the Owen Hart Foundation Cup Tournament and her opponent in the finals at Double or Nothing — Jamie Hayter.

Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS & MAX@MercedesVarnado | @ReneePaquette pic.twitter.com/m08t1f83Vs

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) May 1, 2025