Sasha Banks: From the Ring to the Screen - A Look at Mercedes Varnado's Journey
Credit: Post Wrestling

Sasha Banks: From the Ring to the Screen - A Look at Mercedes Varnado's Journey

Written by: Muhammad Nadeem Khan

Mercedes Varnado, better known by her ring names Sasha Banks and Mercedes Moné, is an American professional wrestler, actress, and model. Born on January 26, 1992, in Fairfield, California, Varnado has made a significant impact in the wrestling world and is now expanding her career into acting.

Early Life and Career in WWE

Varnado began her wrestling career in 2010 on the independent circuit, most notably for Chaotic Wrestling, where she won the Chaotic Wrestling Women's Championship. She signed with WWE in 2012 under the ring name Sasha Banks and was assigned to the developmental brand NXT. During her time with WWE, she had eight championship reigns, including being a former NXT Women's Champion, 5-time Raw Women's Champion, and inaugural and 3-time WWE Women's tag team champions.

In 2021, Varnado made history as the first African American female to headline WrestleMania. However, in 2022, she exited WWE and now wrestles under the name Mercedes Moné. In January 2023, she made her debut for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) at Wrestle Kingdom 17.

Credit: ComicBook.com

Acting Career

Varnado made her acting debut in season 2 of the acclaimed show "The Mandalorian" (2019) in the role of Koska Reeves. She has also appeared on several unscripted shows, including Nick Cannon Presents: Wild N Out, Hot Ones, and Cold As Balls. In 2022, she officially wrapped her first movie appearance.

Upcoming Projects

In February 2023, Varnado signed with the United Talent Agency (UTA) for representation in all areas, including film, television, and theater. This move is expected to help her secure new opportunities and expand her acting career.

Personal Life

Varnado was born to Reo and Judith Varnado, with her mother being of German descent. She is currently signed to NJPW under the ring name Mercedes Moné.

In conclusion, Mercedes Varnado, also known as Sasha Banks and Mercedes Moné, has had a successful career in professional wrestling and is now venturing into acting. With her recent signing with UTA and her upcoming projects, she is poised to make an even bigger impact in the entertainment industry.