Mercedes Mone, better known as Sasha Banks in WWE, left WWE in May 2022 when she walked out of the company alongside Naomi. Their grievances were said to be related to Vince McMahon's handling of the women's division, though neither has elaborated in the years since.
Naomi spent some time in TNA but has since re-signed with WWE; as for Mone, she's under contract with AEW and likely the company's highest-paid female wrestler.
In a recent interview, Mone was asked whether WWE ever imposed any restrictions on her and revealed that her role in The Mandalorian proved a real sticking point for the company.
"Oh yes, oh yes. And that’s definitely a big reason why I came to AEW," she revealed. "Even doing 'The Mandalorian' was like pulling teeth with WWE to get time off to film that show. So, Tony said, 'Whatever [you] need.' If I need that private jet to go from filming in LA to coming for shows, then it’s available for me."
Pushed for details on what led to her parting ways with WWE, Mone responded, "For so many years, everyone wants the tea on that drama. You’re not going to get it unless you buy the book maybe ten years later."
Despite that being a somewhat unsatisfactory answer, Mone did point out how the decision led to her not only becoming the highest-paid women's wrestler in the world but also achievements which wouldn't have been possible in WWE.
"For me, I went from a Legit Boss to a CEO because I wanted to grow. There was something in my soul that said, 'You need to grow.' I wanted to be the CEO of my own life. There was a light source that came into my heart that day."
"'You have to do what’s right for you. What’s happening right now at this moment is not right. You have to take your life in your hands and go make it happen. Go make your heart happy. Go let them know that what they’re doing right now is wrong and show them.'"
"I did. I had to let them know that I am the right one that you messed with that day, and now here I am today, one of the highest paid women in women’s wrestling history," she continued. "The TBS Champion, going after the New Japan Strong Women’s Championship. I get to do so much of my dreams because of that day that I walked out and trusted my heart."
Mone will next take centre stage at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door, where she will face Stephanie Vaquer with both the TBS and NJPW Strong Women's Championships on the line.
You can check out the full interview below.