Mercedes Moné Explodes After Rhio Claims Her “Downfall Has Begun” Following ROH Title Loss

Mercedes Moné isn’t here for your “downfall” narratives. After suffering her first major defeat in Ring of Honor—dropping the ROH Women’s World Television Championship to Red Velvet at Final Battle—the CEO of AEW and ROH’s women’s division had a raw and emotional reaction on social media.

The match itself was packed with backstory. Red Velvet had been sidelined with a serious neck and shoulder injury earlier this year, which allowed Moné to capture the interim ROH Women’s World TV Title. Eventually, the two collided in a high-stakes unification match during an AEW Dynamite/Collision crossover, where Moné emerged as the undisputed champion. That made Velvet’s loss sting—and her comeback all the more dramatic.

At Final Battle, Moné looked to have the match locked down with her signature submission, the ‘Statement Maker.’ But Velvet reversed it into a pinning combination off the ropes, scoring a stunning three-count and reclaiming the title she never officially lost.

But that’s not what had fans talking most. Shortly after the loss, AEW wrestler Rhio posted, “The downfall has begun!!! See you next weekend @MercedesVarnado 👀”—tagging her in the process. Mercedes wasted no time clapping back, writing, “SHUT UP”

That sharp reply was followed by a series of cryptic posts just minutes apart, adding even more intrigue to her mental state following the loss.

“I just woke up from a bad dream”

“I feel like I’m in a different universe 🫠”

It was the first title Moné has lost since leaving WWE, and it clearly hit hard. While she still holds accolades across AEW and NJPW, this defeat was a reality check that the ROH division isn’t hers to dominate unchecked. Red Velvet now sits at the top of the women’s TV title scene, while Moné is left to reset and respond—in and out of the ring.

Whether this marks a turning point or just a temporary setback for Moné remains to be seen. But one thing’s clear: she’s not here for disrespect, and she’s not afraid to let it be known.

What do you think about Mercedes Moné’s reaction after the loss? Was it justified, or did she let the pressure get to her? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.