Riho vs. Masahiro Takanashi (Gatoh Move, 4/27/2019)

Gatoh Move - Japan Tour #422 ~ Last Itabashi of the Heisei Era (4/27/2019)

Riho vs. Masahiro Takanashi

This is classic Riho, physically overmatched but holding her own. They showed world-class technical skills with clever counter-work and some meticulous sequences. The familiarity these two have with each other is clear through the smoothness of the work. Riho also used rare techniques such as a lariat and a Yoshi Tonic.

****1/4

Emi Sakura vs. Mei Suruga (Gatoh Move, 10/31/2019)

Gatoh Move - Gtmv #14 ~ Gatoh Pumpkin (10/31/2019)

3CW Women's Championship: Emi Sakura (c) vs. Mei Suruga

This is the first time these two have faced in a traditional ring since Mei's debut. Some of the most unique ground and counter wrestling I’ve ever seen. Mei, who is called a genius wrestler, found unique situations to apply her signature moves. Emi’s bad back becomes a factor in the match and the way she was able to adapt (for the most part) was amazing. Mei’s double foot stomps to Emi’s injured back is as violent as it gets in Gatoh Move.

****1/2

Stardom - Best of Goddess 2019 (11/4/2019)

6. Wonder of Stardom Championship: Arisa Hoshiki (c) vs. Jamie Hayter

This was a match that gradually improved and became heated as it developed. Arisa's hot crowd response made her comebacks stronger, and the dynamic forms that she was taking before executing her big moves were amazing. Jamie had the presence of an old school foreign heel. Her physique and power has increased since her last challenge for the belt early in the year.

***1/2

7. World of Stardom Championship: Bea Priestley (c) vs. Mayu Iwatani

Bea has been one of my performers this year. Her size, the power behind her strikes and slamming moves; the way she is able to adopt techniques from other wrestlers, put them through her own filter and make them feel natural; the way she paces and progresses her matches. Through every defense she has established her winning combinations, and that allowed her to create very believable moments of suspense in this match without having to rely on excessive near-falls. Mayu, whose injury history was mentioned in the build up, endured tremendous punishment but kept fighting with zombie-like persistence. An amazing match to end a reign and crown a new champion.

****