WWE star Bayley opens up about her mysterious relationship with AEW’s Mercedes Mone

The world of professional wrestling often blurs the lines between on-screen rivalries and real-life bonds. Such is the case for Mercedes Moné and Bayley, two iconic women who have shared the ring as both competitors and allies. Despite now competing in separate promotions, their friendship continues to thrive. In her latest “Moné Mag” newsletter, Mercedes Moné offered a heartfelt reflection on their decade-long connection, built on trust, creativity, and a shared mission to elevate women’s wrestling.

A Wrestling Bond Built on Trust

Mercedes Moné, formerly known as Sasha Banks, first met Bayley over a decade ago during their early WWE careers. According to Moné, the connection was instant. “From the moment I met Bayley, we had an instant connection,” she wrote. “We loved wrestling in the same genuine way and became best friends instantly.”

This bond was evident in their performances as the first-ever WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, where they delivered some of the most iconic matches in WWE history. Moné praised Bayley as her “greatest opponent of all time” because of their shared passion for innovation and excellence. “Her love, passion, and drive for wrestling, like mine, has us trying to bring out the best in one another,” Moné explained.

Their trust in the ring allowed them to take risks, discuss improvements, and continuously refine their performances. For Moné, wrestling Bayley meant feeling “protected” while unleashing creativity. Their matches were not just about competition—they were about storytelling, artistry, and mutual respect.

Pioneering Women’s Wrestling Together

Both Mercedes Moné and Bayley are fierce advocates for the growth of women’s wrestling. During their time in WWE, they worked tirelessly to raise the bar for female performers, delivering matches that combined emotion, athleticism, and compelling narratives.

Moné highlighted how they both shared the same vision for the future of the industry. “We both want the same for women’s wrestling,” she shared, emphasizing their commitment to advancing opportunities for female athletes. Their matches pushed boundaries and inspired a new generation of performers to aim higher.

This collaborative spirit extended beyond the ring. If a match didn’t go as planned, Moné and Bayley would openly discuss ways to improve, ensuring they continually set new standards. Their dedication to empowering one another demonstrates the importance of partnership in an industry that thrives on competition.

Separate Promotions, Same Friendship

While their careers have taken them in different directions, the friendship between Mercedes Moné and Bayley has remained strong. Bayley continues to thrive in WWE as a key player on the “SmackDown” roster following her reign as WWE Women’s Champion. Meanwhile, Moné has reinvented herself, shedding the Sasha Banks persona and carving a new path as a dual champion. She now holds the NJPW STRONG Women’s Championship and the AEW TBS Championship, showcasing her dominance across multiple promotions.

Despite the physical distance and differing brands, their mutual admiration transcends professional rivalries. Moné’s heartfelt reflections in her newsletter highlight how their bond is rooted in genuine respect and a shared desire to see each other succeed. Their story is a reminder that true connections in wrestling go beyond company lines.

A Friendship That Shaped Wrestling History

The friendship between Mercedes Moné and Bayley is more than just a personal connection—it’s a cornerstone of their wrestling legacy. From making history as the first-ever WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions to individually excelling in their respective promotions, their relationship is a testament to trust, collaboration, and shared passion.

Their decade-long journey reflects how friendships in professional wrestling can lead to groundbreaking achievements. Both women have set an example for future generations, proving that women’s wrestling thrives when performers work together to elevate one another. As Mercedes Moné and Bayley continue to inspire fans and fellow wrestlers alike, their bond serves as a powerful reminder that behind every great rivalry is often an even greater friendship.