Nor "Phoenix" Diana expresses gratitude for the opportunity to have competed against Mercedes Moné

Mercedes Moné conquered her thirteenth championship at the event SUPERCLASH of House of Wrestling held last weekend at the Suffolk Credit Union Arena in Brentwood, New York. "The CEO" defeated Singaporean Nor "Phoenix" Diana to snatch the APAC Wrestling Women's Championship in the main event of the night.

Her victory continued to fuel criticism from a sector of fans who believe that her title reign will negatively impact independent promotions that are losing their women's championships. However, another sector, including the promotions themselves, have seen in this story the perfect opportunity to gain exposure. 

Phoenix herself was interviewed after the event, where she was asked about her feelings after being defeated by Mercedes Moné. The Singaporean expressed gratitude for the opportunity to defend her championship in New York and represent both her country and women who wear hijabs.

"Many things, but I really feel blessed and grateful because this is only my second match in the United States; I was defending the most prestigious title, the APAC Wrestling Women's Championship, and besides that, I not only represent APAC, but also Malaysia, all underrepresented people, those who wear hijabs, all who look like me," Phoenix said.

"If you dream big and believe in yourself, you too can achieve it. And yes, tonight Mercedes took my championship. You know what? I will regain my title. This is only my second time, and I promise you that the Phoenix will rise again and return to take what is mine. I will come back better than ever, and I will show the world why I am the flame that never dies," she added.

Regardless of the debate that Moné's story is generating among fans, the truth is that wrestlers like Phoenix have received great media exposure -and by extension, the promotions they belong to- simply by fighting against "The CEO" and being part of her already historic simultaneous reign. However, the question we all continue to ask is: how will this story end?