It’s always nice when you get some pre-match preparation in – when you can communicate with your opponent or people behind the scenes to discuss what story you’re going to tell in the ring and how. In so far as my match with Emi Sakura goes, I won’t have that luxury. Between the hurricane and other responsibilities, I haven’t had time to train in the ring myself, let alone with her. Also, between her schedule and mine, the first time we will have direct face time will be when the bell rings. Add in the fact that we speak two different languages, and you can imagine the challenges. But guess what? That doesn’t faze me. It’s not the first time…
As for my latest veteran challenge, I don’t just want to win and put on a good show when I face her. As the New Japan Strong Champion and CEO, I want to show Emi Sakura that I am the true “Queen” of Japan. I want to impress her and show her that even though she’s been wrestling for 30 years- I’ve been watching wrestling for 21 years. I’ve been studying moves for 21 years. I’ve been studying the game for 21 years and take the craft as seriously as she and our Japanese brothers and sisters do.
Tuesday Night at AEW Dynamite was EPIC! It’s one thing to put both my championships- the New Japan Strong Title and the TBS Championship – on the line, but it’s another to do so against Emi Sakura.
Emi is a Japanese icon and legend who’s been in the wrestling business for 30 years! She is a legend and someone I’ve admired and have literally been watching since I was 13! So, for me personally, as a fan of the sport, as Mercedes Varnado, I am more excited than normal. This will be one of those rare moments where I’m up against a veteran with so many more years and experience than me.
It’s crazy to think that this is only the third time in my career that I’ve had the chance to face someone with this kind of longevity. There are really only two other times in my career when I’ve faced women with more years in the business than me.
