HARASHIMA vs. Soma Takao (DDT, 11/30/2014)

DDT - God Bless DDT 2014 (10/30/2014)

KO-D Openweight Championship: HARASHIMA vs. Soma Takao

One of my favorite DDT matches ever and easily the best match of Soma's career. Very much doubt Soma tops this - EVER. The shift in tempo, when Soma reaches a breaking point and explodes into a flurry that leaves HARASHIMA bleeding from the head, was so well-timed and dramatic.

*****

Miyu Yamashita & Nodoka Tenma vs. Maki Ito & Hyper Misao (Tokyo Joshi Pro, 11/17/2018)

Tokyo Joshi Pro - 5th Anniversary Shinkiba Tour (11/17/2018)

Miyu Yamashita & Nodoka Tenma vs. Maki Ito & Hyper Misao

This was a great prelude to Miyu-Ito at Korakuen. Miyu demonstrates the power gap between her and Ito with a Satomura-esque beatdown. I also found Nodoka's performance to be quite enjoyable as well.

***1/2

Momo Watanabe & Utami Hayashishita vs. Queen's Quest (Bea Priestley & Chardonnay) (Stardom, 11/4/2018)

Stardom - Goddesses of Stardom 2018 (11/4/2018)

Goddesses Of Stardom Tag League 2018 - Finals: Momo Watanabe & Utami Hayashishita vs. Queen's Quest (Bea Priestley & Chardonnay)

Wasn't sure what to expect with Bea & Chardonnay in the finals, but this turned out to be a great match. The action was exciting and moved quickly with little down time and it wraps up nicely.

***1/2

Avid Rival (Misaki Ohata & Ryo Mizunami) & Miyuki Takase vs. BORDERLESS (Yoshiko & Rina Yamashita) & Makoto (SEAdLINNNG, 10/17/2018)

SEAdLINNNG - Shinkiba 7th Night (10/17/2018) 

Avid Rival (Misaki Ohata & Ryo Mizunami) & Miyuki Takase vs. BORDERLESS (Yoshiko & Rina Yamashita) & Makoto

As amazing as you would hope for from this all-star ensemble. Endlessly exciting action with plenty of lariats to go around.

****

Yuna Mizumori vs. Mei Suruga (Gatoh Move, 6/18/2018)

Gatoh Move - Japan Tour・362 (6/18/2018)

Yuna Mizumori vs. Mei Suruga

Mizumori is a big powerhouse, so the much smaller Suruga uses the speed and technical advantage to put on the pressure. Yuna's comeback is brief, one dropkick and a splash is all it takes.

***3/4

magical sugar rabbits (Mizuki & Yuka Sakazaki) & Hinano vs. Miyu Yamashita, Hikari & Miu (Tokyo Joshi Pro, 11/4/2018)

Tokyo Joshi Pro - 5th Anniversary Shinkiba Tour (11/4/2018)

magical sugar rabbits (Mizuki & Yuka Sakazaki) & Hinano vs. Miyu Yamashita, Hikari & Miu 

Hinano plays a major role despite being the least skilled worker, but she does well enough, save some awkward moments. The Miyu segments with Mizuki and Yuka are the highlights. Miyu and Mizuki must have a singles match some time.

***1/2

Risa Sera vs. Tsukasa Fujimoto (Ice Ribbon, 10/28/2018)

Ice Ribbon - #916 ~Ryogoku KFC Ribbon~ (10/28/2018)

ICE×∞ Championship: Risa Sera vs. Tsukasa Fujimoto

Great clash of power and technique. I thought Sera looked great on offense with her power maneuvers and targeting the lower back. That running Burning Hammer from Sera had a nice impact. Tsukasa's counter work was nice. The Venus Shot while Sera was on the apron was a very cool moment.

***3/4