Mercedes Moné on WWE Counter Programming: “I Don’t Care About Them, AEW Is Taking Over”

Ahead of her highly anticipated championship defense at AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door this Sunday, "The CEO" Mercedes Moné spoke with TV Insider about a variety of topics, including her upcoming match, her relationship, and her thoughts on WWE running events opposite AEW.

This Sunday, Moné faces a monumental challenge as she defends her TBS Championship in a four-way match representing companies from around the globe. Her opponents are AEW's own Alex Windsor, CMLL's powerhouse Persephone, and the dominant Bozilla from Stardom at the highly anticipated Forbidden Door event.

Moné on WWE Counter-Programming

When asked about her thoughts on WWE increasingly putting on shows that counter-program against AEW events, and whether she sees it as flattery or a challenge, Moné did not mince words.

"I don’t watch them. I don’t care about them. I’m 'Eight Belts Moné.' I’m a champion of so many different companies. So, the more the merrier. If they want to put on wrestling shows while we have wrestling shows, I’m always going to be better. I’m always better. That’s why I call myself 'The CEO.' They can keep on doing whatever they want to do, but AEW is taking over. If you want to watch the best, good wrestling, watch AEW."

The Struggles of Traveling with Eight Championships

The conversation also touched upon the logistical challenges of being "Eight Belts Moné." When asked about the reality of traveling with so much hardware, she revealed it's a significant burden.

"Oh my God! You have absolutely no freakin’ idea how hard it is to carry around at least 80 pounds. I haven’t officially weighed them. I’m really curious to see, but it’s legit 80 pounds in my carry-on. I’ve actually had to take two titles out and put them in my backpack because I can’t lift my carryon in the overhead anymore. I’ve been struggling, and it’s embarrassing because I’m a wrestler. It is absolutely so hard in every airport. I always get stopped by the TSA and have to spend an extra 20 minutes. It’s so hard. They pull out my titles. Everyone stares at me. They want to know what I do. They are like, 'What are you? A boxer?' No! Hello, do you not see these cute pink titles? Do you not recognize the TBS Championship? I’m a professional wrestler! It’s crazy and a lot of work, but what’s even harder was doing my entrance with all my championships around my waist. It’s really hard to move my hips with 70 or 80 pounds in your hips."

On Her Relationship With The Beast Mortos

Moné also opened up about her relationship with fellow wrestler The Beast Mortos, with whom she went public earlier this summer. On the importance of having a partner who understands the unique demands of the wrestling industry, she shared what makes him the right one for her.

"First of all, that mask he has is really, really hot. Two, he is a lawyer so I can sue you at any time I want. Three, it’s awesome to have someone that understands what you do. Wrestling is extremely, extremely hard, and nobody gets it but wrestlers. Just to have someone who loves it and understands it as much as I do, it’s the best feeling to have a partner like that."

Whether she's discussing her competition, the surprising physical toll of carrying 80 pounds of gold, or her personal life, Moné speaks with a clear and unwavering confidence. While her boldest claims are delivered with the swagger of her on-screen character, her answers also reveal a seasoned professional who knows exactly how to command a headline and build anticipation for a big match. After all, she is "The CEO."