One big thing: Mercedes Mone opens up about mental health struggles following Paige’s injury
Mercedes Mone, formerly known as Sasha Banks in WWE, recently addressed the backlash she faced after an in-ring incident that led to Paige’s (now Saraya in AEW) temporary retirement.
The backdrop:
• In December 2017, a kick from Mone to Paige during a tag team match resulted in Paige’s early retirement.
• Mone faced online abuse from fans, impacting her mental health.
• Paige has since returned to wrestling, debuting with AEW in September 2022.
What they’re saying:
Mone on Hot 97: “That definitely set me on a spiral of depression, because wrestling has always been my biggest dream and I’ve always wanted to be the greatest at it.”
Saraya on Talk is Jericho: “[Mone] is not unsafe. It’s an accident. It happens in wrestling.”
By the numbers:
• Paige was out of in-ring action for nearly 5 years.
• Mone recently won the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door.
Why it matters:
This incident highlights the physical risks wrestlers face and the mental toll that fan backlash can have on performers. It also underscores the importance of support within the wrestling community, as evidenced by Saraya’s comments and her reaching out to Mone upon her return.
The bottom line:
While accidents in professional wrestling can have serious consequences, the support and understanding within the industry can help wrestlers navigate these challenges and continue their careers.
How do you think the wrestling industry can better support performers dealing with the mental health impacts of in-ring accidents? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
