AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Moné recently made headlines not only for her in-ring prowess but also for her enthusiastic support of rising women’s wrestling talent outside mainstream promotions. At the recent Metroplex Wrestling (MPX) all-women’s event titled Who Runs The World? in Texas, Moné witnessed firsthand a standout match featuring Ring of Honor (ROH) star Billie Starkz, and she did not hold back in praising the performance.

After wrapping up filming a holiday movie, Mercedes Moné surprised fans and wrestlers alike by making a guest appearance at the Texas-based indie show held under the guidance of ROH Women’s World Champion Athena, who also runs MPX. In her “Mone Mag” newsletter, Moné described the experience as “truly special,” emphasizing her commitment to elevating women’s wrestling at all levels. She wrote, “One of the highlights of the night was definitely the match between Maya World and Billie Starkz. Wow! There’s so much talent out there, and I feel so inspired by all the amazing women wrestlers just waiting to be discovered”[1].

Billie Starkz, a former ROH Women’s Television Champion, defeated Maya World—herself a former Reality of Wrestling Women’s Tag Team Champion—in a highly competitive singles match that left a strong impression on Moné. The match showcased Starkz’s technical skills and charismatic in-ring presence, qualities that have garnered attention in both indie circuits and larger promotions. Moné’s shout-out serves as a crucial endorsement for Starkz, who is viewed by many insiders as one of the most promising talents on the independent scene[1].

Mercedes Moné’s appearance at the event not only lent star power but also highlighted the increasing collaboration and respect between larger promotions like AEW and grassroots wrestling scenes. During the show, Moné joined Athena in the ring to discuss the significance of holding an all-female event, reinforcing the message that women’s wrestling continues to grow in prominence and capability beyond the major televised stages[3]. The two also performed Moné’s signature “CEO” dance, thrilling the crowd and symbolizing the unity within the women’s wrestling community[3].

The Who Runs The World? event featured other notable competitors as well, further showcasing the depth of talent in women’s wrestling today. Former AEW Women’s Champion Nyla Rose participated in a four-way elimination match, while TNA Knockout Masha Slamovich earned a win in a three-way contest, demonstrating how indie events are fertile ground for diversity and competition among top female athletes[1].

Backstage sources close to AEW have revealed that Moné’s attendance was part of her ongoing mission to broaden her impact beyond championship defenses on AEW television. According to Fightful, Moné has expressed in recent podcasts and interviews her desire to “lift the entire women’s wrestling scene” and has been keen on maintaining connections with independent shows that serve as a proving ground for future stars[3].

This endorsement comes at a pivotal moment for Billie Starkz and ROH women’s wrestling. Starkz recently gained more exposure through high-profile AEW matches—such as her TBS Title challenge against Mercedes Moné—where she impressed fans and commentators with her tenacity and skill, despite falling short of capturing the championship[2][4]. The continued cross-promotion and support signal a promising pathway for talents like Starkz, who benefit from visibility both in large promotions and passionate indie audiences.

Looking ahead, AEW’s Mercedes Moné is scheduled to defend the TBS Championship against Alex Windsor at the upcoming Forbidden Door pay-per-view event, while Athena targets Toni Storm for the AEW Women’s World Championship. These intertwined storylines and alliances underline the growing synergy between AEW, ROH, and the indie wrestling communities[3].

Moné’s recent statements serve as a call to action for wrestling fans to support local indie shows and emerging athletes. Her message resonates with the broader movement to bolster women’s wrestling at every level, ensuring that talents like Billie Starkz receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve.

As Mercedes Moné put it, “You never know who might be the next big thing,” urging fans and industry insiders alike to stay tuned to the independent circuit where future stars are being forged[1].

Reported by a WWE journalist with sources including Wrestling Inc., Fightful, AEW official communications, and MPX event coverage.