What's Happening?
AEW star Mercedes Mone attended the 2026 Forbes Power Women's Summit in New York City on September 10, representing women's professional wrestling. Mone, fresh from a victory at All In, brought her AEW Women's Championship
and a nose cast to the event. The summit, themed 'the future of power,' featured prominent women from various sectors including actress Jennifer Garner, singer Natasha Bedingfield, supermodel Cindy Crawford, NASA astronaut Christina Koch, and tennis legend Serena Williams. Mone engaged in discussions about leadership and power, notably conversing with entrepreneur Haley Sacks (Mrs. Dow Jones) about negotiation and her role as 'The CEO' of wrestling. Mone emphasized that she attended not just as an individual but as a representative of an industry that has significantly advanced, aiming to showcase the dedication and business acumen within women's wrestling. She highlighted the progress made in the sport, where women now headline major shows, build brands, and inspire global audiences.
Why It's Important?
Mercedes Mone's presence at the Forbes Power Women's Summit is significant for elevating the visibility and legitimacy of women's professional wrestling within mainstream business and leadership circles. By bringing her championship, Mone aimed to demonstrate the dedication, business development, and global impact of the sport, challenging traditional perceptions. This exposure helps to validate women's wrestling as a serious profession and a growing industry, potentially attracting new audiences, sponsorships, and investment. Her discussions with other influential women underscore the shared struggles and achievements across different fields, fostering a sense of solidarity and mutual recognition. For the wrestling industry, this event serves as a powerful platform to showcase its evolution and the increasing empowerment of its female athletes, moving beyond entertainment to be recognized for its business and cultural contributions.
What's Next?
In the immediate future, Mercedes Mone is scheduled to defend her AEW Women's World Championship against Marina Shafir at AEW Full Gear on November 14 in Phoenix. Beyond this upcoming match, Mone's participation in events like the Forbes Power Women's Summit suggests a continued effort to advocate for women's wrestling on a broader scale. She expressed a desire for future generations of women in wrestling to feel they belong in such influential rooms and hopes other women's wrestling champions will receive similar invitations. This indicates a potential trend of increased representation for female athletes in non-sports-specific leadership and business forums, aiming to further integrate professional wrestling into wider societal discussions about power and influence.
Beyond the Headlines
Mone's attendance at the summit reflects a deeper cultural shift in how professional wrestling, particularly women's wrestling, is perceived. It challenges the notion that sports entertainment is merely a spectacle, instead highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit, leadership qualities, and business acumen required to succeed in the industry. The emphasis on 'The CEO' of wrestling persona underscores the blend of athletic performance with strategic business management. This development could inspire young girls and women to view professional wrestling not just as a physical pursuit but as a viable career path with opportunities for leadership and influence. It also signals a growing recognition of the economic and social impact of women's sports, pushing for greater equity and representation in traditionally male-dominated fields.
