Will Momo Watanabe Return Mercedes Mone's TBS Championship?

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 02, 2025

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Analyzing the Wrestle Kingdom 17 Match

The Mercedes Mone vs Momo Watanabe bout at Wrestle Kingdom 17 was a masterclass in professional wrestling. Both women showcased their exceptional skills, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats. The match wasn't just a display of athleticism; it was a compelling narrative, building tension and excitement from bell to bell. Analyzing the key moments helps determine the likelihood of a rematch.

• Watanabe's near-falls and dominant stretches: Momo Watanabe repeatedly put Mone on the brink of defeat, showcasing her incredible strength and resilience. Her powerful strikes and submission attempts highlighted her determination to win the IWGP Women's Championship.
• Mone's strategic use of her signature moves: Mercedes Mone, utilizing her experience and cunning, expertly countered Watanabe's attacks. Her signature maneuvers, executed with precision and timing, kept her in the fight and ultimately secured the victory.
• The crowd reaction and its significance: The electric atmosphere at Wrestle Kingdom 17, with the crowd roaring its approval for both competitors, speaks volumes. The near-falls elicited massive reactions, indicating a desire for a rematch and showcasing the widespread respect for both wrestlers.

The Wrestle Kingdom 17 results saw Mone retain her title, but the match was far from a decisive victory. The close nature of the contest, with Watanabe consistently pushing Mone to her limits, strongly suggests a rematch is not only possible but also highly desirable.

The Potential for a Rematch

Rematches are a staple in both NJPW and STARDOM, often used to further develop storylines and capitalize on audience interest. A Mercedes Mone vs Momo Watanabe rematch holds significant potential for both promotions.

• Financial incentives: A rematch would undoubtedly generate substantial revenue through increased pay-per-view buys and merchandise sales, making it a financially lucrative proposition for both organizations.
• Narrative potential: A rematch provides a fantastic opportunity to further develop the intense rivalry between Mone and Watanabe. The storyline could explore the lingering resentment and determination of Watanabe to reclaim her title, building anticipation for their next encounter.
• Impact on careers: A title change would significantly impact both wrestlers' careers. A victory for Watanabe would solidify her status as a top contender, while another win for Mone would further cement her dominance in the IWGP Women's division.

The potential benefits, both narrative and financial, significantly bolster the case for a rematch, making it a highly probable scenario.

Obstacles to a Watanabe Rematch

Despite the strong arguments for a rematch, several obstacles could prevent it from happening.

• Mone's schedule and commitments outside of NJPW: Mercedes Mone's schedule might be heavily booked with commitments outside of New Japan Pro-Wrestling, limiting her availability for a timely rematch.
• The possibility of other challengers emerging for the TBS Championship: Other talented wrestlers in NJPW and STARDOM could emerge as contenders, potentially pushing Watanabe down the pecking order for a title shot. The NJPW roster is full of capable competitors.
• Injuries or unforeseen circumstances: Injuries or other unforeseen circumstances affecting either wrestler could also delay or prevent a rematch.

Alternative Scenarios

If a direct rematch doesn't materialize, several alternative scenarios could unfold:

• Watanabe facing other top contenders: Watanabe could face other top contenders in STARDOM or NJPW, maintaining her momentum and establishing herself as a top competitor.
• Mone defending against a different challenger: Mone might defend her title against a different challenger in NJPW or even in another promotion, creating new and exciting storylines.
• A multi-person match: A multi-person match involving both Mone and Watanabe could be arranged, creating a high-stakes encounter with multiple potential outcomes. This could be a thrilling way to keep the rivalry alive. Future storylines could even incorporate elements from all these options.

Conclusion

The question of whether Momo Watanabe will reclaim the TBS Championship from Mercedes Mone remains a compelling one. While a rematch is far from guaranteed, the electrifying Wrestle Kingdom 17 match and the potential storylines involved strongly suggest the possibility. The factors discussed above—from the match’s outcome to logistical hurdles—will all play a crucial role in determining the future of this rivalry. Keep your eyes peeled for announcements regarding Mercedes Mone and Momo Watanabe, as the wrestling world eagerly awaits the next chapter in their intense saga. Will we see a Mercedes Mone vs Momo Watanabe rematch for the TBS Championship? Only time will tell.