Stardom - 5STAR Grand Prix 2021 (9/4/2021)

2. Natsupoi vs. Unagi Sayaka

This match was an interesting blend of traditional and comical wrestling and showcased the range of both performers. It was not unlike a match you would see from Toru Yano in the G1 Climax.

***1/4

4. Mai Sakurai Challenge Series - Match #3: Giulia vs. Mai Sakurai

Mai Sakurai's best Stardom match so far and a match that showed the genius of Giulia. It was similar to the match that Unagi had with Giulia as part of Unagi's trial series, with Giulia almost working to Mai's pace and giving her an inch without giving her too much. The ground exchanges were quite good, with both wrestlers working for their signature STF.

***1/2

5. 5STAR Grand Prix 2021 Red Stars: Himeka vs. Mina Shirakawa

This was a great sprint-style match, stable and consistent with almost no wasted movement. Mina showed a lot of tenacity. I liked her wheel kick and transition to set up the draping DDT. And Himeka, in her third match since her return, has already gotten into her groove.

***1/2

6. 5STAR Grand Prix 2021 Blue Stars: Konami vs. Takumi Iroha

That was a solid match. Iroha hit some heavy strikes, and Konami showed some cool transitions on the ground. It didn't quite reach second gear in my opinion, but it was a fun, flashy back and forth nonetheless.

***1/4

7. 5STAR Grand Prix 2021 Blue Stars: Syuri vs. Utami Hayashishita

An abridged and more intimate version of the deadly battle in Ota Ward. Syuri was overwhelming both offensively and defensively, keeping Utami constantly working. They build upon their previous encounters with some amazing sequences. The action was almost constant for 20 minutes, but the dynamism and diversity kept it interesting.

****1/4