Key Takeaways:
– Mercedes Varnado accuses WWE of trying to sabotage her role in The Mandalorian.
– Varnado’s transition from WWE to AEW was influenced by alleged ill-treatment at WWE.
– She changed her ring name to Mercedes Moné after leaving WWE.
– Varnado discusses her positive experiences at AEW, including support for her acting career.
Transition from WWE to AEW
Mercedes Varnado, popularly known as Sasha Banks during her tenure at WWE, has been open about her switch to AEW in March 2024. In a shocking revelation made during her recent appearance on Hot 97, she accused WWE of trying to sabotage her involvement in the Disney+ Star Wars series, The Mandalorian.
Introducing Koska Reeves in The Mandalorian
Known for her prowess in the wrestling arena, Varnado carved a niche for herself in the entertainment industry with her role as Koska Reeves in The Mandalorian. She was thrilled to be part of the critically acclaimed series, considering it a high point of her career. However, she claimed WWE tried to create obstacles to her involvement in the blockbuster series.
Alleged Interference by WWE
According to Varnado, her participation in the series was allegedly threatened by WWE’s scheduling conflict. The pro-wrestler shared that she was put on house shows when she needed to be on set filming for The Mandalorian, a tension which she described as “pulling teeth.” This alleged sabotage became a pivotal reason for her decision to leave WWE for AEW.
Successful Transition to AEW
Leaving WWE didn’t slow down Varnado’s wrestling career. She adopted a new ring name, Mercedes Moné, after joining AEW where she has since garnered considerable attention and success. Favored by her numerous fans, she has been regularly charming the television audience, both in AEW and The Mandalorian.
AEW’s Support for Her Acting Career
Varnado appreciates AEW’s respect for her dual career aspirations. Unlike her experience with WWE, she finds AEW supportive of her acting endeavors. She spoke about AEW President Tony Khan going to great lengths to accommodate her acting schedule, even providing a personal jet to ensure she could fulfill her commitments. She feels valued and nurtured at AEW and sees this as a testament to her super-stardom.
Upcoming Projects for Mercedes Varnado
Varnado’s run in the wrestling circuit continues as she gains momentum in the acting realm. There’s been talk about her reprising her role in The Mandalorian’s fourth season. Alternatively, she might also secure a part in Jon Favreau’s film The Mandalorian & Grogu, slated for a May 2026 release.
Thus, despite surprising allegations against WWE, Mercedes Varnado’s journey from WWE to AEW illustrates her resilience, creativity, and ambition. The Mandalorian star’s voyage across parallel universes of wrestling and acting not only highlights her diverse talent but also her ability to adapt and thrive under pressure. Her journey continues, undoubtedly filled with more exciting moments both in and out of the ring. All three seasons of The Mandalorian are available for viewing on Disney+.
