Mercedes Mohn recently shared her thoughts on the differences between AEW and WWE locker rooms. The TBS Champion appeared on the "Marking Out" podcast with MVP and Dwayne Swayze, where she discussed her debut in Japan and the decision to adopt a new ring name after leaving WWE.
When comparing WWE and AEW locker rooms, the former Sasha Banks described the contrast as stark, like night and day. Mercedes highlighted that at Tony Khan’s AEW, she even has her own locker room. She emphasized that everyone there is focused on collective growth and supporting each other, creating a more positive environment.
"For me, it’s like lunch versus lunch. I have my own locker room, so I tend to stay away from any drama. The vibe among the women feels like a community eager to help the company grow. We’re all hungry," she said with a laugh.
Mercedes Mohn exited WWE in 2022 and made her New Japan Pro Wrestling debut in January 2023. After recovering from an injury, she officially debuted in AEW in March 2024 and returned to action in May. She has often described AEW as having an underground feel where the talent is driven by passion and motivation.
"We still feel very underground and determined to make it here. All the women possess incredible drive and passion, which really motivates me. Everyone is fired up and wants to be the best. The energy is different," she explained. "I’m not saying WWE is bad or that egos aren’t present, but here, it feels like we’re all fighting together to build something great. I respect people who have passion and hunger."
Last month, Mercedes suffered her first AEW singles loss to "Timeless" Toni Storm in a match for the AEW Women’s Championship. She is set to defend her TBS title in a four-way match at the upcoming Forbidden Door pay-per-view event.
Fan Take: This insight from Mercedes Mohn highlights a growing cultural shift within AEW, showing a close-knit, ambitious environment that contrasts sharply with WWE’s locker room dynamics. For AEW fans, it underscores why the promotion is attracting passionate talent and steadily reshaping the pro wrestling landscape with a fresh, collaborative spirit.
