In an extensive interview published today on ESPN.COM, Mercedes Mone said that she signed with AEW because of the opportunity to create magic, not necessarily only in the company, but also expanding her brand in ways that it would not have been allowed in WWE.

“I’m all about creating history,” Mone said. “I’m all about creating magic, and I’m all about creating so much more. And that’s what AEW brings – so much more, more opportunity, more chances and more chances just to stand out and to be seen and noticed.”

WWE’s grip on talent is no secret and the former WWE and IWGP Women’s champion has built a brand, a brand which she owns in terms of trademarks, again, something that she would not have been allowed to continue as a WWE Superstar.

Mone didn’t hide the fact that the financial offer from AEW was good and it also played a part in her decision on where to go.

“I mean, I’m not Mercedes Mone for no reason,” she said. “Money changes everything. I’m always about that bag. Absolutely.”

But money aside, global domination is something that interests her and with AEW, she will have the freedom just for that.

“You can do so much more in AEW – you can do everything,” she continued. “And for me, I want to do everything. So, this is the place for me to be, and this is the place that I call home.”

Mone is believed to be the highest-earning female star in the industry today, with many seeing it as a positive for other women on either roster since it opens the possibility of stars like her demanding more money and be paid equally as their male counterparts.