Mercedes Moné Wins The IWGP Women's Championship At NJPW Battle In The Valley

Mercedes Moné is a champion in New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

The former Sasha Banks made her NJPW in-ring debut at the promotion's Battle in the Valley pay-per-view from San Jose, California on Saturday, February 18 as she challenged KAIRI for the IWGP Women's Championship. Both competitors put together an impressive outing but it was Moné who ended the night with her arm raised.

KAIRI looked set to retain down the stretch after she put Moné through a table with a Powerbomb but The CEO managed to block KAIRI's Insane Elbow attempt soon after. Moné then later escaped a Crossface from KAIRI by biting her hand and the new NJPW talent followed up with her Moné Maker finisher to capture the IWGP Women's Championship.

After the match, KAIRI and Moné shook hands and hugged. Moné's best friend, WWE's Bayley, also watched on, although she was not shown during the broadcast.

Moné made her NJPW debut at Wrestle Kingdom 17, challenging KAIRI to the match at Battle in the Valley. Moné was previously a top star in WWE but she exited the company in 2022.

With today's loss, KAIRI's reign as the inaugural IWGP Women's Champion is over after 91 days. She had been champion since defeating Mayu Iwatani at NJPW x Stardom Historic X-Over in November.