Stardom - Fight In The Top ~Nagoya Summit Battle~ (6/26/2022)

3. Himeka vs. Mina Shirakawa

Mina controlled the pace with a focused attack on the leg. The damage accumulation played into the finish of the match, and even though Himeka was able to win using Mina's own move against her; Mina controlled the match right up until the end, making timely counters aimed at the leg whenever Himeka seemed to be gaining control. The gap between the two appears to be shrinking. ***1/2

4. Artist of Stardom Championship - Elimination: Starlight Kid, Saki Kashima & Momo Watanabe (c) vs. Giulia, Maika & Mai Sakurai vs. Syuri, MIRAI & Ami Sourei

Another great Artist defense. The depth of the action felt bottomless. There were so many interactions and little things to enjoy, and everyone was given their moment to stand out. Kid's self-destructive elimination of Giulia and Syuri was particularly cool and dramatic. The finale between Kashima and Sourei felt like it could go either way, with Sourei being undefeated since her debut and Kashima being a wrestler who can take falls in multi-man tags in rural areas yet still convincingly win big matches with her super desperation comeback technique. ****1/4

5. Steel Cage Match: Tam Nakano vs. Natsupoi

This had such an unsettling and breathless atmosphere yet was so addictive. Two cute idol wrestlers with various moe elements dared to show their ugly side. Grotesque flesh-shaving assaults using the wired mesh of the cage, and heavy slaps and kicks and crushing suplexes. The VSD being performed in deafening silence was chilling and the hanging finish will surely be etched in the history of Reiwa. Natsupoi came to Stardom seeking this type of emotion driven grudge match and it was great to see her in such a fulfilling role with Tam, with whom she has a dark and complex relationship. ****1/2

6. Steel Cage Match: Mayu Iwatani, Koguma & Hazuki vs. Utami Hayashishita, AZM & Saya Kamitani

This was in direct contrast to the muddy grudge match that preceded it. A lighthearted sports competition-like approach to the cage match to send the fans home happy. It had high-risk spots and comical elements, with each wrestler showing plenty of personality. Koguma was once again the main character of a gimmick match with her 5-meter leap from the cage. I'm glad everyone seems to have escaped unharmed. ****1/4

Natsupoi, Maika & Himeka vs. Tam Nakano, Mina Shirakawa & Unagi Sayaka (Stardom, 4/23/2022)

Stardom (4/23/2022)

Artist of Stardom Championship: Natsupoi, Maika & Himeka (c) vs. Tam Nakano, Mina Shirakawa & Unagi Sayaka

This was an excellent trios match between arguably the two strongest teams in the division's history. A win for Maihimepoi here means they tie Kouzen's record for most defenses so more than just the titles were at stake. There was so much amazing content packed into 30 minutes, all so impeccably paced and arranged that it hardly felt like its runtime. The moment where Unagi and Mina prepared the launch pad for Tam but Tam was too damaged to complete the move so they quickly improvised was so great. The teamwork and split-second coordination by both teams was outstanding. Closing moments between Tam and Natsupoi, who went back and forth with heavy bombs, with occasional assists from their partners, were spectacular. ****1/4

Ruaka vs. Saya Iida (Stardom, 6/5/2022)

Stardom (6/5/2022)

5STAR Grand Prix 2022 Qualifying League Block B: Ruaka vs. Saya Iida

This match was better than expected. Looking at the result alone, a "Ruaka timeout draw" may not sound appealing, but it was a heated battle between monsters large and small. The heaviness and power of Ruaka's offense and Iida's signature bumps and hot-blooded counterattacks were amazing. ***1/2

Stardom - Flashing Champions 2022 (5/28/2022)

 1. Future of Stardom Championship: Hanan (c) vs. Ruaka

The usual Future opener, with lots of action packed into a small time frame. Ruaka used her weight well and is growing step by step. Hanan has established her winning combos which allows for heightened tension when they are cut-off or countered. ***1/4

2. Mina Shirakawa, Unagi Sayaka & Waka Tsukiyama vs. Suzu Suzuki, Akane Fujita & Mochi Natsumi

Kouzen made their entrance without dancing and were in battle-mode from the onset. Tsukiyama's burning fighting spirit when she fought Suzu was amazing. She was fighting for her life and even delivered an explosive headbutt. When I first saw Waka Tsukiyama, I had no idea that she would become such a soul-stirring wrestler. Suzu, who has become a different kind of monster since leaving Ice Ribbon, radiated an incredible aura and her reactions to Tsukiyama were perfect. I felt like I was watching a battle of geniuses. ****

3. High Speed Championship: AZM (c) vs. Thekla

AZM showed her versatility as a pro-wrestler, using kickboxing, suplexes and submission holds. Thekla is clearly a talented wrestler and usually has multiple highlights in her big matches, but she could be more assertive. She seems too passive and too easily defeated. It was a short match but had a good amount of varied action. ***1/2

4. SWA Championship: Mayu Iwatani (c) vs. Fukigen Death

They worked at a high pace, packing strong content into a sub 5-minute match. Fukigen showed a more serious fight than usual, with a rolling German suplex and a shocking moonsault attempt. Mayu’s usual skill and technique were present. ***3/4

5. Tam Nakano & KAIRI vs. Utami Hayashishita & Miyu Amasaki

Tam and Kairi’s first tag match, but the match had many more themes than that. Not only was the action strong, but the storytelling was amazing. Utami’s handsomeness as the new leader of Queen’s Quest, willing to fight two-on-one and throw herself into the line of fire to protect her junior Amasaki. Amasaki, amid a brutal baptism, standing firmly in the end against KAIRI, who had a world-class sense of grandeur. Tam and Utami’s boiling feud led to high-impact exchanges throughout, and the fresh first time encounter between KAIRI and Utami was terrific. ****1/4

6. Goddesses of Stardom Championship: Hazuki & Koguma (c) vs. Giulia & Mai Sakurai

Personally, this might be my favorite FWC defense so far. It was a stable and coherent match, with comradery and teamwork shown from both teams. The master and pupil combination of Giulia & Mai was enjoyable to watch. ***3/4

7. Artist of Stardom Championship: Natsupoi, Maika & Himeka (c) vs. Starlight Kid, Saki Kashima & Momo Watanabe

Fantastic end to the best Artist of Stardom reign. It was a frenetic action-packed back and forth with no downtime and plenty of exciting multi-person moves and sequences. Maika had some great power spots, and the emotional story of Kashima, who withstood intense fire and turned everything upside down with a single shot, was amazing. ****1/4

8. Wonder of Stardom Championship: Saya Kamitani (c) vs. MIRAI

After an auspicious encounter at the first New Blood event, I thought these two had great potential as rivals. It was amazing to see two wrestlers with no more than three years of experience fighting at such a high level. Kamitani working on top was a fresh approach for her. The way she targeted the waist with heel drops, wonton kicks and finally a deep crab. MIRAI fighting underneath was an ideal choice given her sympathetic origin story and she showed lots of endurance and heart. We often see wrestlers refusing to fall down after being on the bad end of a strike exchange, but MIRAI’s selling was especially convincing during that spot. There were moments towards the end that were too ordinary for my liking, but it was a promising first match between these two. ****

9. World of Stardom Championship: Syuri (c) vs. Risa Sera

This felt like a showa-style heavyweight confrontation between group representatives. The duration was relatively short compared to most red belt defenses, but it was convincing because every significant blow was treated like it inflicted heavy damage. Despite her cute hair style, Syuri was frighteningly strong, and Sera's size and power suited the red belt. ****1/4

Stardom - Fukuoka Goddess Festival 2022 ~ Batten Stardom (5/5/2022)

4. SWA Championship: Thekla (c) vs. Mayu Iwatani

Thekla getting blasted with superkicks was the theme of the match. Thekla started off strong, but once Mayu got into her stride, she seemed unable to gain a clear advantage. It was a simple and straightforward match, but superbly executed and Mayu's charisma shone through. ***3/4

5. Elimination Match: Syuri, MIRAI, Ami Sourei & Konami vs. Giulia, Himeka, Natsupoi & Mai Sakurai

A dense unit battle that showcased a wide variety of personalities and styles. All of the key encounters were enjoyable and well delivered, with MIRAI and Mai Sakurai, who formed a bond together when they were members of the same unit, getting a big spotlight. ****

6. Goddesses of Stardom Championship: Starlight Kid & Momo Watanabe (c) vs. Hazuki & Koguma

This started out chaotic and never quite slowed down. All four competitors have been involved in the high speed division at one point or another and this was wrestled like a high speed match, both teams going back and forth with dizzying offense and defense. It was light on substance and emotion but an easy watch. ***3/4

7. Wonder of Stardom Championship: Saya Kamitani (c) vs. Maika

While most promotions in Japan are veritable gerontocracies still relying on the same aging and established veterans, Stardom entrusted young rivals of less than 3 years experience Saya Kamitani and Maika with a big venue main event. Both wrestlers showed how much they’ve grown as individuals and opponents since their last singles title encounter, taking or reversing each other’s best moves. The pacing was excellent, dynamic ebb and flow with the big sequences given time to settle. Like any great champion's road, Kamitani has shown growth in each defense. Here she unleashed a thrust headbutt and a phoenix press barrage en route to victory. The normally stoic Maika shed tears in her hometown after failing to win a belt known to bring out complicated emotions from its competitors. ****1/2

Stardom - CINDERELLA TOURNAMENT 2022 (4/29/2022)

4. Gauntlet: Fukigen Death, Rina & Saki Kashima vs. Giulia, Maika & Thekla vs. Lady C, Saya Kamitani & Utami Hayashishita vs. Mayu Iwatani, Momo Kohgo & Saya Iida vs. Mina Shirakawa, Tam Nakano & Unagi Sayaka vs. Momo Watanabe, Ruaka & Starlight Kid

Easy and enjoyable match full of explosive moves and fresh and meaningful encounters. Everyone was able to showcase their uniqueness and contribute to the action, even if for a brief moment. The exchange between forever rivals Giulia and Tam was amazing, to no surprise. ****

5. High Speed Championship: AZM (c) vs. Mei Suruga

A dream match that exceeded its lofty expectations. Mei performing in a proper big match setting is something I've been waiting to see, and she was excellent here. She's less about striking and slamming, and more about pinning techniques and misdirects. AZM wasn't too far behind, with a big tope and well-timed counter kicks. There were high level transitions and counterwork from both and the division's signature pin-scrambles. ****1/4

6. Cinderella Tournament 2022 - Finals: MIRAI vs. Koguma

I didn't find much about this match all that exciting. It seemed to be lacking in narrative hook and emotion for a tournament finals, but there were a few good moments. Koguma does little things I always enjoy and her bump-reception is always good. MIRAI's finishing combination looked convincing, with an emphatic Miramare Shock. ***1/4

7. Wonder of Stardom Championship: Syuri (c) vs. Himeka

A heavy hitting main event clash befitting the image of the red belt. Himeka, who for the first time performed a plancha and jumping knee from the top rope, pushed herself to the limit and showed her high potential. Syuri always seemed to be one step ahead with her deep repertoire, countering Himeka's size and power with lucha libre holds and submissions at key moments. Himeka's old-school heavyweight style and Syuri's martial arts strikes and submissions made for a compelling hybrid mix. ****1/4

Stardom - CINDERELLA TOURNAMENT 2022 (4/17/2022)

4. Cinderella Tournament 2022 - Round 2: Saya Iida vs. Mai Sakurai

This was better than expected. It was a sprint style match where each was able to show their strengths. It was like the charm of either wrestler was condensed into 5 minutes. Iida's reception was amazing. She bounced around all over the place, really doing justice to Sakurai's heavy big boots. Sakurai has grown considerably since moving to DDM, both in skill and size; she has a big body and some impactful moves that take advantage of it. Iida's final counterattack was full of her signature intensity. ***1/2

6. Cinderella Tournament 2022 - Round 2: Giulia vs. Koguma

This was another great match between these two. I never thought they would be such great opponents, but they just match up together so well both in personality and technique. Giulia showed her range as a performer in a match that combined comical elements with high tension. ***1/2

10.  Cinderella Tournament 2022 - Quarter Finals: Saki Kashima vs. MIRAI

Pleasantly surprised by this match. The chemistry between the two was great and they had an exciting match. Kashima has added new wrinkles to her game that have made her a more polished performer, and her near-death counters were as dramatic as ever. MIRAI carried a lot of momentum and felt like the main character in a shonen manga. ***1/2

Starlight Kid & Momo Watanabe vs. Giulia & Thekla (Stardom, 4/10/2022)

Stardom - Osaka (4/10/2022)

Goddesses of Stardom Championship: Starlight Kid & Momo Watanabe (c) vs. Giulia & Thekla

DDM were a pair of black-clad mature women heels in this match, who didn't hesitate to respond in kind to the youthful Oedo-tai's cheating and use of weapons. That dynamic worked really well. The match started with some comical elements and gradually turned into a heated back and forth. The natural change in tone was very impressive. It was also great to see a wide variety of styles and techniques. Kid and Giulia had a rugged back and forth that ended with a headbutt collision, while Momo and Thekla exchanged kicks and big techniques at the end. ****

Thekla vs. Saki Kashima (Stardom, 2/13/2022)

Stardom - Kyoto (2/13/2022)

SWA Championship: Thekla vs. Saki Kashima

Solid back and forth with a good amount of struggle and timely near-falls towards the end. Surprisingly physical too. Kashima has added kicks to her moveset and she used them to good effect here. ***1/4

Utami Hayashishita, Lady C, AZM, Ruaka & Miyu Amasaki vs. Momo Watanabe, Saki Kashima, Rina & Starlight Kid (Stardom, 3/12/2022)

Stardom - Takadanobaba (3/12/2022)

Tug of War: Utami Hayashishita, Lady C, AZM, Ruaka & Miyu Amasaki vs. Momo Watanabe, Saki Kashima, Rina & Starlight Kid

5v5 gauntlet style match. The pairings ranged from good to average, best of them being the opener between Utami and Momo, Lady C and Saki, and the final match between Miyu and Kid. Utami and Momo worked a slow struggle, with Momo working body parts while Utami made a gradual comeback. Lady C gave an impressive effort against Kashima, showing plenty of fire and making good use of her size advantage. The final match between Miyu and Kid, Miyu's second consecutive main event from her debut the previous day, was a spirited back and forth that showed the newcomer’s early potential. ***1/2

Natsupoi, Maika & Himeka vs. Starlight, Rina & Ruaka (Stardom, 2/21/2022)

Stardom (2/21/2022)

Artist of Stardom Championship: Natsupoi, Maika & Himeka vs. Starlight, Rina & Ruaka

This was fun and easy to watch main event. Everyone's positioning and timing were on point and each performer played their role well in the match. Young OED are a really cute and enjoyable team to watch and I'm glad they were given a chance to shine in a main event title match at Korakuen Hall. ****

Stardom - CINDERELLA TOURNAMENT 2022 Opener (4/3/2022)

7. Cinderella Tournament 2022 - First Round: Utami Hayashishita vs. Tam Nakano

These two have an interesting feud, having only faced each other in singles exclusively in tournaments. In Utami's debut year, she bulldozed through Tam by referee stoppage. Last year, Tam was finally able to get revenge when the two were arguably at the height of their strength as the promotion's top champions. Now both of them are beltless fighting their way back up after having been defeated by Saya Kamitani. This was a sprint-style match with exchanges of big moves and some comical elements mixed in. It wasn't an ideal match, but it was good for what it was given the limitations imposed by the rules of the tournament. Hopefully they meet again in the near future. ***1/2

 14. Cinderella Tournament 2022 - First Round: Giulia vs. Thekla

A mostly mat based affair with striking kept to a minimum. Thekla recounted a story in Shupro about how she and Giulia had a fierce sparring session during their Ice Ribbon days where she ended up bloodied by a head butt. This match was much like that, with the two trading ground moves and gradually developing into more intense offense. There were few wasted movements, as almost every move was logically chained to another. ***1/4

Stardom - STARDOM WORLD CLIMAX 2022 ～The Top～(3/27/2022)

 1. Future of Stardom Championship: Hanan (c) vs. Mai Sakurai

Good opening match with a solid amount of drama for its length. I actually enjoyed this quite a bit more than the Future match from the previous night. Diverse range of moves and each competitor showed a real drive to win. Mai was making timely counters right down to the finish and it felt like it could have gone either way. ***1/4

3. Utami Hayashishita vs. MIRAI

Utami's neck is still wounded from her title match the previous night so MIRAI zones in on the injury. MIRAI pulling out a Yurikamome shows how deep her grappling arsenal is. Utami's neck didn't allow her to bridge her German suplex so she had to dig in her drawer for another finish. Great back and forth struggle between two power fighters with judo backgrounds. ***1/2

4. Momo Watanabe vs. Hazuki

Putting these two together for this event was pure fan service. Momo still moves with the same vitality despite her ever-increasing weight, and her kicks feel like they have something more behind them. Hazuki was able to answer back with some vigor, but I almost feel she was sucked into Momo's pacing and didn't stand out as much. It was mostly a Momo show. Still, this packed a lot of high impact action. Momo, using all of her big moves short of the Peach Thunder, felt as if she was showing Hazuki how much she had grown since their last singles encounter. The Bea Trigger with an exposed knee was a nice tribute to her former ally. ***3/4

6. KAIRI vs. Starlight Kid

This was a methodical detail oriented type of deal instead of the spurt-style match Stardom fans may be accustomed to these days. All about maximizing the pause between the moves. KAIRI endured Kid's assault and gave everything back. ****

7. Giulia, Maika Himeka & Thekla vs. Suzu Suzuki, Risa Sera, Akane Fujita & Mochi Miyagi

It had been over 2 years since Giulia and Suzu last wrestled against each other in the ring and their chemistry was instant. They are natural opponents and their interactions created excitement for the future. It wasn't the proper full-scale battle between DDM and Prominence I would have liked to have seen, but it was an effective prelude match. ***3/4

8. Wonder of Stardom Championship: Saya Kamitani (c) vs. Tam Nakano

These two have such a catchy chemistry, everything flows seamlessly even when the technique isn't perfect. Exhilarating game of one upmanship with a couple of dangerous techniques thrown in. Namely an avalanche frankensteiner to the floor (!) and a balcony dive. Both willing to risk self-destruction to call themselves the Wonder of Stardom champion. ****1/2

9. World of Stardom Championship: Syuri (c) vs. Mayu Iwatani

This had its moments, but something about it felt off. I wasn't able to get a sense of what they were trying to convey. There was obviously the limb damage which came into play during key moments, with Mayu being unable to make the necessary follow through, and the finish. But a lot of it felt aimless, like they were throwing moves without meaning behind it. It lacked the focus and polish of recent red belt main events. ***1/4

Stardom - STARDOM WORLD CLIMAX 2022 ～The Best～(3/26/2022)

 2. MIRAI vs. Saya Iida

Any concern about where Saya Iida would fit in the ever-changing landscape of Stardom was alleviated in this rugged, hard style encounter. She carves such a unique presence on the card and has already established herself shortly after returning. This was unusually high tension for a match this early in the card. Despite their stature, they were colliding into each other with echoing force. ***3/4

4. Maika & Thekla vs. Risa Sera & Suzu Suzuki

A solid showcase match from Prominence's top team. After their performance at Korakuen Hall there were concerns about whether or not Prominence had the stamina and conditioning to work Stardom's pace and if they were even training, so I'm sure they were performing with a sense of crisis and working hard to leave a stronger impression on the audience. I thought they gave a great performance, with Suzu's gifted physical prowess on full display. ***1/2

5. Goddesses of Stardom Championship: Hazuki & Koguma (c) vs. Starlight Kid & Momo Watanabe

An action-ey tag match between young Stardom originals of past and present, with smooth momentum changes and some great rope running sequences. Koguma's bump technique continues to be a highlight of her matches. Hopefully Starlight Kid's addition to the Goddess Division will give it a much-needed boost. ***3/4

6. KAIRI & Mayu Iwatani vs. Tam Nakano & Unagi Sayaka

KAIRI's return from her long voyage, a thrilling spectacle of a match with not only strong tag wrestling but also individual performances. KAIRI had the aura of a world-class superstar from her entrance and seemed sharper than ever. Her jovial energy with Mayu and treating Tam as an equal but Unagi as an unworthy junior who needed to be brutally baptized made for such an entertaining performance. I had flashbacks to Kairi-Iwata with some of the hard hits delivered to Unagi from KAIRI. Unagi and her "small fish with nothing to lose" approach didn't feel out of place amongst an all-star selection. ****1/4

7. Wonder of Stardom Championship: Saya Kamitani (c) vs. Utami Hayashishita

Kamitani has quickly become a dignified champion and reliable big match performer. Utami was good offensively, but I would have liked to have seen more emotion from her given the circumstances. Still, this was a well worked match with a consistent theme of targeting each other's weak points and the raw high-risk technique that makes Kamitani's matches so fun to watch. ****

8. World of Stardom Championship: Syuri (c) vs. Giulia

The previous match between these two was about deepening their bond and elevating each other. Almost two years later, they've become two imposing figures too big to be contained in the same unit, asserting their wills so as to not lose their presence to the other. This match had more complex emotions involved than the usual red belt match, perhaps thanks to Giulia, who is most synonymous with the emotion driven white belt, bringing her unique color to the division. A parade of violence from start to finish, worked at a crazy pace with no let up. Giulia found all manner of angles and methods to attack, wrestling with a blood pumping rhythm in her most compelling performance yet. Syuri tried to not be outdone but also weather the excessive offensive. Plenty of heavy audible strikes and head drops to go around. ****1/2

Stardom - NEW BLOOD 1 (3/11/2022)

 2. Ai Houzan & Maria vs. Unagi Sayaka & Waka Tsukiyama

This was unexpectedly amazing. A fast paced match with everyone showing high workrate, technique and zeal. The feud between Unagi and Maria added an extra dimension to the action and made this more than just a crossover showcase match. ***3/4

3. Lady C & Saya Kamitani vs. Mai Sakurai & MIRAI

Another match on this card that was unexpectedly great. Everyone was allowed to shine and the match was given ample time to develop naturally. Kamitani and MIRAI had a fresh and meaningful encounter, while Lady and Mai traded deadly big boots like Kawada and Taue. ***1/2

4. Aoi & Tomoka Inaba vs. Hanan & Saya Iida

It was cool to see the Future of Stardom champion and Senjo Junior champion on opposite sides, but the real story of the match was Saya Iida's return after 339 days away. She hardly missed a beat. In fact, her condition seemed better than before. The timing and explosiveness of her comeback was amazing, and I was reminded of just how good she is. Everyone else also looked good and were able to show their uniqueness. ***1/2

5. Haruka Umesaki & Nanami vs. Ruaka & Starlight Kid

This was not as impressive as a few of the matches before it but it was solid enough, with clean performances from everyone involved. Kid and Umesaki's rivalry looks promising. ***

6. Miyu Amasaki vs. Utami Hayashishita

Stellar debut for Miyu Amasaki. The early goings were wrestled and paced in such a way that you didn't quite know what she was capable of and then she found an opening with a knee bar and started doing amazing stuff one after another. Utami of course kept the match stable, but Miyu also performed very well in a high-pressure situation, with stunning visuals and a nice range of techniques. ***1/2

Starlight Kid vs. Natsupoi (Stardom, 2/1/2022)

Stardom - New Year Stars 2022 (2022)

High Speed Championship: Starlight Kid (c) vs. Natsupoi

I have been enjoying the High Speed division very much lately. It's a small division so everyone is fighting each other consistently and developing a deep chemistry. The previous match between these two was an "evolution of high speed" and with this match they continued to push the boundaries of the division with a long-form main event in Korakuen Hall that was a splendid mix of technicality, high-flying, charisma and emotion. The fleet-footed back and forth action couldn't be contained in the ring and spilled to the outside several times, leading to big time moves and sequences on the floor or apron that sometimes involved their stablemates. Lots of top notch trades and skillful evading of each other's attacks. The few lulls were followed by sudden bursts of offense and defense. A high speed classic. ****1/2

Stardom - Cinderella Journey in Nagaoka (2/23/2022)

 4. Donna del Mondo (Giulia, MIRAI & Thekla) vs. Donna del Mondo (Himeka, Maika & Syuri)

This was a short 20 minute trios match that showed the vividness of the new DDM. Each member was given their moments to shine, and Giulia and Syuri previewed their upcoming title match in hard-hitting segments. ****

6. High Speed Championship: Starlight Kid (c) vs. AZM

This match exceeded high speed. I never envisioned these two would be capable of such a match. Sharp technical grappling and rope work, and frantic pin scrambles. There were also the necessary slow points that swelled the tension for some great near-falls and a well delivered pay off. ****1/4

7. Wonder of Stardom Championship: Saya Kamitani (c) vs. Natsupoi

A fan vote was held to determine the main event of the show and this match won by a wide margin. Both competitors were surely under a lot of pressure to meet the expectations of the fans. And unlike the semi-main event, Kamitani and Natsupoi had no history between them to draw from, but they each had their own motivations. For the champion Kamitani it was to replace the negative memories of this same venue she failed an idol audition in years ago. This was a great main event with a combination of brilliance and rawness, as both showed off some flashy new moves and unleashed some big bombs. From the bell they worked an exhilarating pace for over 20 minutes. ****1/4

Donna del Mondo (Maika & Himeka) vs. Queen's Quest (Saya Kamitani & Utami Hayashishita) (Stardom, 1/16/2022)

Stardom (1/16/2022)

Donna del Mondo (Maika & Himeka) vs. Queen's Quest (Saya Kamitani & Utami Hayashishita)

This was an awesome match to top off a quality event in Toyohashi, that could have easily been a tag title main event if either team had the belts. Himeka and Utami battled each other with heavy lariats, and Maika and Kamitani feuded throughout the match, hopefully building towards a singles in the future. ****

Stardom - Nagoya Supreme Fight (1/29/2022)

1. Future of Stardom Championship: Hanan (c) vs. Lady C

Nice opening match, with both wrestlers working fast paced and showing high energy. All of their best moves were used and there were some nice counters; a solid amount of drama for a match of this length. ***1/4

2. Queen's Quest (AZM & Utami Hayashishita) vs. Oedo Tai (Momo Watanabe & Starlight Kid)

Fun fast paced match with some heated exchanges and cool counters. Unlike with House of Torture, the interference here was smoothly integrated into the action and never felt too overwhelming. ***1/2

3. SWA World Championship (decision): Mina Shirakawa vs. Thekla

A solid match with nothing too complicated, just a good back and forth. The character work was fun and there were some nice strikes. ***1/4

4. Goddesses of Stardom Championship: STARS (Hazuki & Koguma) (c) vs. Donna del Mondo (Himeka & Maika)

This was just non-stop action, with great teamwork on display from both teams. FWC, oversized and overpowered, used their speed and technique effectively. I really liked Hazuki's performance in this match, she was flying around the ring booting faces in. ***3/4

5. Wonder of Stardom Championship: Saya Kamitani (c) vs. Unagi Sayaka

A great first defense for Kamitani, who showed that she could lead a championship match. They mostly stuck to what they know and there wasn't much in the way of innovation or cleverness. Still, they both performed well and showed emotion, and there were timely counters and near-falls. ****

6. World of Stardom Championship: - #1 Contendership: Mayu Iwatani vs. Giulia

Despite the sudden match change up, Mayu and Giulia more than made the most of the occasion. This was a championship caliber death battle, superhuman stamina and an acceleration of high-impact offense. Both took their opponent's best moves head on and neither gave the other an inch. The Keiji Mutoh-esque tension-building " pause" before the final moonsault at the end was topnotch. ****1/2

7. World of Stardom Championship: Syuri (c) vs. MIRAI

Syuri properly fulfilled her role as the top champion by bringing out the best in an unknown newcomer and convincing the audience in her first defense. MIRAI, without a proven track record, was put in a position of high pressure, and I think she gave a great performance. MIRAI's simple and practical wrestling has the same sense of purity that the young lions of New Japan have. She showed lots of emotion and zeal as she tried to overwhelm the champion, who managed to turn things around in one shot. ****1/4

Donna del Mondo (Giulia & Syuri) vs. STARS (Hazuki & Koguma) (Stardom, 1/9/2022)

Stardom - Stardom New Year Stars 2022 in Korakuen Hall (1/9/2022)

Goddesses Of Stardom Championship: Donna del Mondo (Giulia & Syuri) vs. STARS (Hazuki & Koguma)

An action-packed tag team main event that didn't feel like its 16-minutes. Although the finish wasn't strong, much of the match was very compelling and had a nice catchy rhythm to it. Giulia's performance in particular was outstanding, from her offense to her wild bumps. Koguma, who debuted a great new costume alongside Hazuki, was also fun to watch as usual. ****