Sasha Banks, whose real name is Mercedes Justine Kaestner-Varnado, was born on January 26, 1992, in Fairfield, California. She grew up with a passion for wrestling and began training with Chaotic Wrestling in 2008 to pursue her dream of becoming a professional wrestler.
After training with Chaotic Wrestling, Sasha Banks made her way to the WWE developmental territory NXT. She quickly gained recognition for her impressive in-ring skills and captivating persona. Banks became the Chaotic Wrestling Women's Champion before making her NXT debut.
In NXT, Sasha Banks solidified her place as one of the top female wrestlers in the industry. Her rivalry with fellow NXT competitors, such as Paige, showcased her talent and determination to succeed. Banks adopted the entrance theme "Sky's the Limit" by CFO$ in 2014, which became synonymous with her character.
Her success in NXT caught the attention of the WWE, and she eventually made her main roster debut. Banks quickly rose through the ranks and became a prominent figure in the Women's division. In 2021, she and Bianca Belair made history as the first Black women to main-event WrestleMania, further cementing her legacy in the industry.
Outside of wrestling, Sasha Banks leads a private life with her husband, Sarath Ton, whom she married in 2016. She comes from a talented family, with notable cousins in the entertainment industry, including rappers Snoop Dogg, Daz Dillinger, and Ray J, as well as singer Brandy.
In 2023, Sasha Banks made a surprising move to New Japan Pro-Wrestling, where she adopted the name Mercedes Moné. Her transition to NJPW opened new doors for her career and allowed her to showcase her skills to a different audience. In 2024, she joined All Elite Wrestling (AEW), further expanding her reach and impact in the wrestling world.
Aside from her wrestling career, Sasha Banks also ventured into acting, playing the role of Koska Reeves in season two of the popular series The Mandalorian. Her versatility and talent have allowed her to excel in various mediums beyond the wrestling ring.
Throughout her career, Sasha Banks has proven to be a trailblazer in women's wrestling. Her innovative in-ring style, charismatic personality, and dedication to her craft have earned her a place among the all-time greats in the industry. Banks continues to inspire the next generation of female wrestlers with her work ethic and passion for the sport.