Stardom - 5STAR Grand Prix 2019 (9/7/2019)

4. 5STAR Grand Prix 2019 Red Stars Block: Avary vs. Hana Kimura

This was effectively a squash, but it was done well. The character of Avary’s comes across stronger than in her previous matches, thanks in part to Hana’s natural ability to draw a crowd in and create heat.

***

5. 5STAR Grand Prix 2019 Red Stars Block: AZM vs. Momo Watanabe

AZM has been the star of the tournament. She’s hanging in there with tougher opponents. Sometimes even sneaking away with a victory. Momo delivered HARASHIMA style punishment with stomps and kicks. This was a lot of fun.

****

7. 5STAR Grand Prix 2019 Blue Stars Block: Jungle Kyona vs. Natsuko Tora

The first singles meeting between Kyona and Natsuko since the dissolution of JAN. This had hard hits and bombs. Kyona’s rallying from underneath, which is always good. The sprawl counter into the powerbomb from Kyona was amazing.

***3/4

8. 5STAR Grand Prix 2019 Red Stars Block: Mayu Iwatani vs. Tam Nakano

Tam targeting the injury of stablemate and friend Mayu sells the importance of the tournament. Mayu was fighting off of one leg, making the most of openings she found.

***1/2

9. 5STAR Grand Prix 2019 Blue Stars Block: Arisa Hoshiki vs. Bea Priestley

A battle between the Red Belt and the White Belt. I was looking forward to Bea and Arisa facing as they are two of my favorite champions at the moment. The match develops into a blistering back and forth where one mistake could decide the match.

***3/4