Saturday, March 12, 2022

Stardom - NEW BLOOD 1 (3/11/2022)

 2. Ai Houzan & Maria vs. Unagi Sayaka & Waka Tsukiyama

This was unexpectedly amazing. A fast paced match with everyone showing high workrate, technique and zeal. The feud between Unagi and Maria added an extra dimension to the action and made this more than just a crossover showcase match. ***3/4

3. Lady C & Saya Kamitani vs. Mai Sakurai & MIRAI

Another match on this card that was unexpectedly great. Everyone was allowed to shine and the match was given ample time to develop naturally. Kamitani and MIRAI had a fresh and meaningful encounter, while Lady and Mai traded deadly big boots like Kawada and Taue. ***1/2

4. Aoi & Tomoka Inaba vs. Hanan & Saya Iida

It was cool to see the Future of Stardom champion and Senjo Junior champion on opposite sides, but the real story of the match was Saya Iida's return after 339 days away. She hardly missed a beat. In fact, her condition seemed better than before. The timing and explosiveness of her comeback was amazing, and I was reminded of just how good she is. Everyone else also looked good and were able to show their uniqueness. ***1/2

5. Haruka Umesaki & Nanami vs. Ruaka & Starlight Kid

This was not as impressive as a few of the matches before it but it was solid enough, with clean performances from everyone involved. Kid and Umesaki's rivalry looks promising. ***

6. Miyu Amasaki vs. Utami Hayashishita

Stellar debut for Miyu Amasaki. The early goings were wrestled and paced in such a way that you didn't quite know what she was capable of and then she found an opening with a knee bar and started doing amazing stuff one after another. Utami of course kept the match stable, but Miyu also performed very well in a high-pressure situation, with stunning visuals and a nice range of techniques. ***1/2