Blake Monroe, currently the WWE NXT Women’s North American Champion, recently reflected on her memorable rivalry with Toni Storm in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), describing it as one of her proudest moments in professional wrestling. Despite some fans perceiving Monroe as callous, the WWE star opened up about the emotional depth and significance behind that intense AEW feud, which helped shape her career.
From AEW’s “Mariah May” to WWE’s Blake Monroe
Before adopting the name Blake Monroe in WWE, she was known as Mariah May during her two-year tenure in AEW. Throughout that time, her rivalry with Toni Storm AEW’s “Timeless” women’s star stood out as a highlight both for fans and Monroe herself. This feud showcased Monroe’s evolving in-ring skills and character work, establishing her as a competitive force in women’s wrestling.
Monroe’s transition from AEW to WWE NXT earlier this year marked a fresh chapter in her career. Now holding the Women’s North American Championship, she carries the confidence built during those earlier battles. Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Monroe stated that despite how she might come across at times, she remains proud of the challenges and growth that the AEW feud with Toni Storm brought her.
An Emotional and Competitive Rivalry
The Monroe-Storm rivalry was notable for its blend of high-level wrestling and compelling storytelling. Toni Storm, known for her intense and passionate style, often pushed Monroe to her limits—both psychologically and physically. Monroe has acknowledged that this dynamic fueled her motivation and helped her better understand the complexities of engaging with a top-tier opponent.
A WWE insider revealed, “Blake often talks about that AEW feud as a moment where she really realized her potential. She learned a lot—how to tell a story, how to connect with the audience emotionally, and how to elevate herself by facing a competitor as authentic as Toni.”
Why Blake Monroe Believes WWE NXT Is Her Platform
Monroe’s decision to switch from AEW to WWE was partly influenced by the platform and exposure WWE provides. In comments on The Masked Man Show, she emphasized NXT’s strong viewership and the considerable TV equity held by stars like Bianca Belair, Rhea Ripley, and Charlotte Flair. Monroe said she felt she could compete with these top talents and wanted to test herself on that stage rather than stay in AEW’s environment.
This perspective highlights her ambition to climb WWE’s ranks and make the most of the opportunities in NXT. According to sources close to WWE creative, Monroe’s hunger and work ethic have made her a key figure in the women’s division, with her past AEW experiences enriching her character depth.
A Respectful Nod from Toni Storm
The rivalry was not only impactful for Monroe; Toni Storm herself has spoken positively about their encounters. Storm has praised Monroe’s evolution and professionalism, noting that their past clashes helped push both women creatively and competitively. Fans on social media have echoed this sentiment, with some highlighting Storm’s words saying Monroe was a worthy and respectful adversary.
This mutual respect adds another layer to the story of the feud—a competitive bond forged in the heat of battle, underlining the importance of rivalry in professional wrestling development.
Navigating Fan Reactions and Personal Growth
While some fans perceived Monroe’s recent comments as a slight or a subtle critique of AEW, insiders clarify that Monroe’s remarks come from a confident place rather than disrespect. Her acknowledgment of NXT’s scale and audience reach aims to explain why she made her career move, not to undervalue AEW.
A backstage source commented, “Blake is focused on her journey and growth. She respects her time at AEW but sees WWE as the next step to challenge herself. The fan reactions sometimes miss the nuance of what she’s saying.”
Looking Ahead: Monroe’s Future in WWE
Currently holding the NXT Women’s North American Championship, Blake Monroe is poised for continued success in WWE. Her ability to draw from past rivalries, like the one with Toni Storm, adds depth to her character and in-ring storytelling. Fans and insiders alike expect Monroe to be a major player in the evolving NXT women’s division.
Her story highlights how past rivalries, even if brutal and emotionally taxing, can become defining moments that propel a wrestler’s career forward. Monroe’s pride in her AEW feud exemplifies the professional mindset needed to rise through wrestling’s ranks.