Friday, May 17, 2019

Tokyo Joshi Pro - Spring Tour '19 - Ready Set, GO! (5/12/2019)

4. Himawari Unagi & Yuna Manase vs. Mina Shirawaka & Yuki Kamifuku

The fruits of Mina's training with CARPE DIEM were seen in this match, she's developing into an interesting wrestler with this blend of lucha libre and BJJ. Good match, I liked the subversion of the boob sandwich spot from Yuna & Unagi, and Kamiyu and Mina gave particularly strong performances.

***1/2

6. Maki Ito, Miyu Yamashita & Shoko Nakajima vs. Natsumi Maki, Rika Tatsumi & Yuka Sakazaki

This was an all-stars trios with exciting action and good character work. Natsupoi was the standout, with great segments with Ito, Miyu and Shoko.

***3/4

Thursday, May 16, 2019

Emi Sakura vs. Mei Suruga (Gatoh Move, 5/6/2019)

Gatoh Move - Japan Tour・#427 (5/6/2019)

Super Asia Championship #1 Contendership - Semi-Finals: Emi Sakura vs. Mei Suruga

Sakura's back is shot so she is trying to find a quick finish, making resourceful use of her veteran instincts, and at one point even using her cane. This was one of the most creative matches I've ever seen, even for Ichigaya's brand of wrestling. 

****1/2

Toni Storm vs. Tam Nakano (Stardom, 5/3/2019)

Stardom - STARS Produce Golden Week Stars 2019 (5/3/2019)

Toni Storm vs. Tam Nakano

This was a great return match for Toni, and against an opponent who could make her stuff look good. One of Tam's spin kicks to the head looked like it hit flush which was aesthetically pleasing to watch. Great back and forth with big, explosive offense.

***3/4