Stardom - Grows Up Stars 2018 (3/4/2018)

1. Future of Stardom Championship Tournament - First Round: Hanan vs. Starlight Kid

This was excellent, a heated battle between juniors where the high stakes had the crowd engaged. Hanan hit an awesome superkick and I liked her use of the Gedo Clutch. SLK fought harder than usual as well.

***1/4

2. Future of Stardom Championship Tournament - First Round: AZM vs. Ruaka

Another great match in this tournament, surprisingly physical, and there was a good amount of hate between them too. Simple, effective pro wrestling.

***1/2

3. Nao Yamaguchi vs. Shiki Shibusawa

Solid debut for Nao, the crowd participation really added to it. Nao maneuvers around the ring like a natural, I was surprised by her confidence. She did a couple of shoulder tackles, a body slam and an ax bomber.

**1/2

5. Io Shirai vs. Xia Brookside

A solid match where Xia got a lot of shine, looking strong against Io. After the match, Xia is welcomed to the Stardom roster by Io!

**3/4

6. Bea Priestley & Toni Storm vs. Queen's Quest (HZK & Momo Watanabe)

Solid - Bea & Toni made for an interesting team.

**1/2

7. Jungle Kyona, Mayu Iwatani & Tam Nakano vs. Oedo Tai (Hana Kimura, Kagetsu & Sumire Natsu)

This was a spectacular trios match, amazing blend of action and character work, and a packed Shin-Kiba 1stRING was the perfect setting for it. Unreal atmosphere. Tamu gave an amazing performance as the face-in-peril, Oedo Tai were ruthless heels, and I loved the finale between Tamu and Sumire.

****1/4