Mercedes Mone Denies Rumors That Her NJPW Deal Is Up Soon

It was previously reported that Mercedes Mone’s last date with STARDOM is Sunday at All-Star Grand Queendom, but that she’s negotiating for another show. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Mone denied rumors that her deal with NJPW is up soon. Here are highlights:

On her goal in Japan: “The ultimate goal for a lot of professional wrestlers is to make it to WWE. That’s what I thought was the big time. But I did that. I wanted to make new history, and the place to do it is here in Japan. Japan has the highest standards for women’s wrestling, and I want to set the standard in New Japan.”

On the rumors her contract is up soon: “The rumors are so far from the truth. If it’s not coming from me or my voice, then how does anyone else know my business? None of it is true unless it is coming from me. It’s just a reminder that I’m a conversation starter.”

On her creative freedom: “In the United States, you’re told what to do, what to say and how to say it. Here, I’m creating every single moment. I feel so free. I’ve never been this confident. And it is significant to me because I’m inspiring people to follow their dreams. I don’t take that responsibility. I’m not even in my prime yet. I’m just getting started. I’m finally getting to create the magic I’ve always wanted to create. My ideas aren’t being limited and I’m not constantly hearing no or that matches are being cut short. I’m not going to hold back.”