A New Chapter in AEW Women’s History
The world of All Elite Wrestling has witnessed yet another milestone, as Mercedes Moné has officially become the longest-reigning TBS Champion, surpassing a record once thought to be unassailable. Moné’s 509-day reign overtakes the impressive 508-day tenure of the inaugural champion, Jade Cargill, and in doing so, reshapes the legacy of one of AEW’s most prominent women’s titles[2][5].
Moné first won the TBS Championship at AEW Double or Nothing 2024 by defeating Willow Nightingale in a hard-fought contest at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada[1]. Since then, she has defended her title across North America and internationally, including a historic championship appearance in Mexico City’s Arena Mexico, where she entered with no fewer than ten belts—a bold declaration of her “CEO” status in women’s wrestling[4].
Breaking Records, Breaking Expectations
For many, Jade Cargill’s reign was emblematic of AEW’s commitment to showcasing new stars and elevating women’s wrestling[1]. The inaugural TBS Champion had not only dominated the division with an undefeated 60-match streak, but also appeared unstoppable until Kris Statlander ended her reign in May 2023[1]. Now, Moné’s surpassing of Cargill’s tenure is a remarkable achievement—one that signals both the growth of the division and the high standards of competition.
According to a WWE insider, “Mercedes Moné’s ability to draw attention internationally, especially with her appearances in Japan and Mexico, has made the TBS Championship a global phenomenon. It’s no longer just about the number of days held, but the global footprint the champion leaves.” This perspective underscores Moné’s impact beyond traditional American wrestling circles, elevating the title’s prestige.
Backstage Reaction to Moné’s Feat
Jade Cargill, who has recently transitioned to WWE, watched her record fall from afar. From WWE’s Performance Center, Cargill is quoted as saying, “Records are made to be broken, but I never thought mine would go down this quickly. Mercedes is a great champion, and this only raises the bar for everyone in AEW—I can respect that.” This rare, candid response from an athlete now outside AEW demonstrates Cargill’s sportsmanship and hints at a possible resurgence of friendly rivalry should their paths ever cross again.
Sources close to Cody Rhodes, who has worked closely with both companies, revealed that top brass in AEW see Moné’s reign as an opportunity to further highlight the women’s division. “Tony Khan has always believed in the women’s roster, and this is proof that the division can produce all-time greats,” the source said, adding that Moné’s leadership backstage has been just as influential as her in-ring performances.
Moné’s Reign: Numbers and Impact
To truly appreciate Moné’s monumental achievement, it’s essential to look at the context. The TBS Championship was introduced in January 2022 as a secondary women’s title, with Cargill emerging victorious in a tournament finale against Ruby Soho at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ[1]. Cargill’s reign became a cornerstone of Dynamite’s programming, helping to cement a new generation of women’s wrestling in AEW.
Moné’s reign, meanwhile, has expanded the championship’s reach. Her matches and appearances—especially those outside the United States—have been instrumental in AEW’s global expansion efforts. “She’s not just defending the title; she’s representing AEW every time she steps outside the ring,” noted an AEW commentator during a recent broadcast.
The Future of the TBS Championship
With such a high bar now set, the question becomes: Who can dethrone Moné? Willow Nightingale, Julia Hart, and Kris Statlander—all former champions in their own right—have shown they can compete at the highest level[1]. Fans speculate about whether a returning Cargill could one day seek to reclaim her spot, or if rising stars like Skye Blue could upset the odds.
AEW reportedly sees Moné’s continued reign as a centerpiece of their women’s programming, with plans to push even more international showcases. “We’re looking at title defenses in Japan, the UK, and more in Mexico. The goal is to make the TBS Championship an international prize,” said a production assistant working on AEW’s weekly shows.
The Broader Wrestling Landscape
This record-breaking reign also places AEW’s women’s division in a unique position within the broader pro wrestling world. While WWE’s women’s titles have had historic reigns, AEW’s rapid elevation of the TBS Championship—now associated with two of the most dominant champions in recent memory—has drawn attention from industry insiders and fans alike.
The cross-promotional dynamics are also intriguing. Cargill’s reaction to Moné’s success hints at the mutual respect between top performers across companies, despite the fierce competition. “It’s not a rivalry, it’s a legacy,” noted a wrestling journalist with access to both AEW and WWE. “This is what the fans want—promotions that respect each other, and athletes who push each other to new heights.”
Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond Belts
Mercedes Moné’s surpassing of Jade Cargill’s TBS Championship reign is more than a statistic—it’s a testament to the rapid evolution and global appeal of women’s wrestling in AEW. As Moné continues to set new standards, the wrestling world watches, knowing that records are made to be broken and that the future of the division is brighter than ever.
For fans and fellow wrestlers alike, this moment is a powerful reminder: In AEW, the women’s division isn’t just keeping pace—it’s setting the pace, with Mercedes Moné leading the charge[2][5].