With the announcement of AEW’s latest venture WrestleDream 2023 in early October, there have been speculations about Sasha Banks’ return to the PPV. This particular event is dedicated to a Japanese legend and therefore a lot of talents from Japan will feature in action. It’s been quite some time since we have seen ex WWE Superstar in action but since she’s an NJPW talent, the PPV could be a perfect time for her to make an appearance.
Ever since Sasha, currently going by the name of Mercedes Mone was seen in attendance for AEW All In 2023 in London, England, rumors are rife about her incoming at the WWE’s rival brand. However, AEW President Tony Khan recently said that he is not expecting Mercedes to be a part of the WrestleDream 2023 pay-per-view.
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Sasha Banks may not be cleared for action by WrestleDream 2023
While speaking about the anticipated appearance, Khan talked about it during the All Out media call. He addressed the possibility of the former women’s champion being a part of WrestleDream 2023 and stated that he’s doubtful over whether she will be cleared to compete by that time,
”I don’t know if she would be physically cleared at that time. I’m not expecting that because she had a major injury. When she’s cleared, that is someone we’re really interested in working with.”
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Time will tell whether the former Sasha Banks can appear at WrestleDream 2023 or not. She hasn’t wrestled since competing in the four-woman tournament for the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship at NJPW Resurgence. After defeating Stephanie Vaquer in the first round, Sasha lost to AEW’s Willow Nightingale in the finals of the tournament. It was during the match that she suffered an injury to get sidelined.
Fightful Select confirmed that prior to her injury, Mercedes was actually scheduled to win the match and become the first NJPW Strong Women’s Champion. The title was solely created with Mercedes in mind to become the inaugural champion. But things went terribly wrong after the former top WWE Superstar got herself injured.
Following AEW All In, Tony Khan announced the new pay-per-view, WrestleDream 2023 which is scheduled for October. During the post-All In media scrum, Khan revealed that the event will be taking place on October 1 as it was on that day that NJPW legend Antonio Inoki passed away, last year.
