Mayu Iwatani vs. Utami Hayashishita (Stardom, 9/24/2018)

Stardom - 5STAR Grand Prix 2018 (9/24/2018)

5STAR Grand Prix 2018 Finals: Mayu Iwatani vs. Utami Hayashishita

This was a star-making performance for Utami in her first ever Korakuen main event. The dismissive veteran versus the cool super-rookie dynamic was played well. Mayu does a splendid job bumping (as usual) for Utami's power-based offense when the tide turns and her comebacks were well obtained. Excellent match to cap off a great tournament.

****1/2

Hazuki vs. Mayu Iwatani (Stardom, 9/16/2018)

Stardom - 5STAR Grand Prix 2018 (9/16/2018)

5STAR Grand Prix 2018 Block A: Hazuki vs. Mayu Iwatani

Hazuki goes after Mayu like a relentless wolverine, and Mayu being the bump technician she is sold and bumped like a madman. Great flow in general, with nice counters and armwork (the way Mayu switched her wrist band from the healthy arm to the injured arm was a nice subtle touch). Mayu scores some savage head kicks, including a gnarly axe kick.

****1/4

Tokyo Joshi Pro - How Do You Like Shinkiba? (9/22/2018)

4. Mizuki vs. Maki Ito

These two put together a strong match with great storytelling. Ito is at her best in these story-driven matches, this was easily her best singles bout.

***1/2

5. Hikari & Yuka Sakazaki vs. Yuki Aino & Nodoka Tenma

No clue why this was given the semi-main spot, but the work justified its placement. The MVP of the match was unironically Hikari, she's getting so much mileage out of that cobra twist.

***1/2

6. Azusa Takigawa vs. Miyu Yamashita

Enjoyed this a lot. I'm not a fan of Azusa's gimmick of interrupting the action to cut a promo, but it's over with the crowd so I'll tolerate it. They worked a big match pacing and the match had some nifty counters. Miyu reversing a crucifix hold into an Attitude Adjustment was very nice.

***3/4