Willow Nightingale is set for one of the biggest matches of her AEW career this Sunday, defending the Women’s World Championship against Mercedes Moné at Wembley Stadium.
Nightingale heads into All In just over a month removed from her Redemption victory over Thekla, where she captured the world title for the first time. She has already notched her first successful defense, beating current TBS Champion Maya World on the most recent AEW Collision.
In a recent interview with Fightful, Willow acknowledged that she feels a different kind of pressure walking into the company’s biggest event as world champion.
“Of course. I’ve had a pretty steady climb throughout my career in AEW, starting from the pre-show last time I was at Wembley. Last year in Texas, I was able to be part of the Casino Gauntlet, which was cool. All of that is cool and exciting, but being the champ, I understand that I’m not just gunning to make an impression or try to climb the ladder. I’m at the top of the ladder, and the target is on my back. Very different story.”
The history between Willow Nightingale and Mercedes Moné runs deep. Back in May 2023, Willow defeated Mercedes to become the inaugural NJPW STRONG Women’s Champion.
In AEW, Mercedes got her revenge at Double or Nothing 2024, beating Willow to capture the TBS Championship.
Over the past few weeks, though, the rivalry has turned intensely personal. Mercedes has attacked Willow on multiple occasions and made it clear that she wants to wipe the famous smile off the champion’s face.
Willow, however, insisted that Moné’s plan isn’t working.
“No, I don’t feel less like myself. It’s been part of the journey and the struggle. I’ve always used my smile to be my strength. […] You just have to smile through it.”
“Have fun. We’re going to fight. I’m going to bring hell, I know she’s planning on bringing hell because she’s been doing that to me since she came to AEW. Enjoy it because you’re not going to get what you want out of it.”
All In takes place this Sunday, August 30, at Wembley Stadium in London.