The news recently broke that Sasha Banks, real name Mercedes Varnado, was officially a free agent, and was available to take bookings. All signs pointed to the one-time "Boss" of WWE making her in-ring return for New Japan Pro Wrestling, and sure enough, Mercedes Mone (pronounced Monet) debuted during last night's Wrestle Kingdom 17 event.
Sporting a striking new look and entrance music, Mone made her presence felt following current IWGP Women's Champion Kairi's (aka Kairi Sane) successful title defense against Tam Nakano.
Mercedes extended her hand to her former friend and rival, but when Kairi took it, the debuting star hit her new finisher (a slight botch, but nothing too egregious) and promised the champ that she was coming for her belt at Battle of the Valley on February 18.
Some seem to feel that Mone's debut was a little underwhelming, in large part because of the muted crowd reaction. But it's important to note that Japanese fans - especially the NJPW faithful - are usually quite reserved in general.
What did you guys make of the former Sasha Banks' Wrestle Kingdom debut? Drop us a comment down below.
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