Monday, February 25, 2019

Tokyo Joshi Pro - Be updated to the future, the future, the future (2/23/2019)

4. Rika Tatsumi vs. Hyper Misao

A match that felt like a main event epic despite its low position on the card. They kept it relatively simple and yet created tension and drama with the way they structured the match. The reversal sequences and submission struggles were great. A strong return match for Rika Tatsumi, with one of the best singles performances of her career.

****1/4

5. Maki Ito vs. Natsumi Maki

This was a fun bout of one-upmanship between charismatic idol wrestlers. Full of personality, some nastiness as well, with water spitting and slaps to the face. The intimate setting and the synergy the performers had with the crowd gave this a special aura.

****

7. TOKYO Princess Tag Championship: magical sugar rabbits (Yuka Sakazaki & Mizuki) (c) vs. Muscle JK (Reika Saiki & Marika Kobashi)

You get a true sense of the magical sugar rabbits' growth as a tag team in this match, the strong comradery they've developed. Marika seemed to be having an off night, but everyone else was so on-point that they made up for her shortcomings. She got better as the match went on and worked an exciting finish with Mizuki.

****

8. TOKYO Princess of Princess Championship: Miyu Yamashita (c) vs. Tenma Nodoka

Nodoka's the best at getting knocked around and making split-second counterattacks. The size differential made Miyu's kicks look especially devastating. Short, but still delivers on big match drama through exceptional pacing and performances.

****1/2

Sunday, February 24, 2019

Stardom - QUEEN's FES 2019 (2/17/2019)

5. JAN (Jungle Kyona & Natsuko Tora) vs. Oedo Tai (Andras Miyagi & Kagetsu)

Great debut for Miyagi who showed what she's about without giving away too much, and another quality tag performance from JAN's top duo.

***1/2

6. Goddesses of Stardom Championship: Queen's Quest (Momo Watanabe & Utami Hayashishita) (c) vs. AMA (Arisa Hoshiki & Mayu Iwatani)

Good main event with impressive sequences and kicking ability. It doesn't reach the heights I was hoping for, but it had great action. I would've liked to have seen more struggle down the stretch, QQ's comeback felt a bit too brief.

***1/2