Get ready to mark your calendars, wrestling fans, because Stardom’s latest signing is about to shake things up in the joshi scene! But here’s where it gets controversial—could this be the move that redefines the career of a wrestler who’s already left an indelible mark on both indie and mainstream circuits? Let’s dive in.
Stardom, the powerhouse of Japanese women’s wrestling, has been dropping hints about a new addition to their roster at recent shows. The teasers had fans buzzing with speculation. Many thought it might be the former Dakota Kai, a gaming enthusiast and streamer who’s been a free agent since parting ways with WWE last year. Kai, who wrestled in Stardom a decade ago as Evie, seemed like a strong contender. And this is the part most people miss—others, like myself, wondered if Mercedes Martinez was bringing her rejected RETRIBUTION gimmick to Japan. But as the teasers unfolded, one detail stood out: the mystery wrestler had a penchant for energy drinks. That pointed directly to Maki Itoh, the foul-mouthed, fan-favorite wrestler who’s been a staple of Tokyo Joshi Pro-Wrestling (TJPW) and a recurring presence in AEW from 2021 to 2023.
Today (January 10), Stardom confirmed the rumors by introducing Maki Itoh at their Korakuen Hall show. Itoh, known for her “Cutest in the World” persona that contrasts sharply with her sailor-like cursing, stood alongside Stardom president Taro Okada, contract in hand and sporting a new tracksuit. “After nine years in professional wrestling, this is the first time I’ll be part of this organization,” she declared. “I will be joining Stardom. Nice to meet you!”
Itoh’s journey to wrestling is as unique as her in-ring character. Before lacing up her boots, she was a member of LinQ, a Japanese idol group—think meticulously crafted girl groups, a staple of pop culture in Japan and South Korea. After being let go from LinQ in 2017, Itoh channeled that experience into her wrestling gimmick, quickly becoming a fan favorite, especially online. In TJPW, she’s a two-time International Princess Champion and a former tag team champion alongside Miyu Yamashita.
Her Stardom debut is set for tomorrow at Korakuen Hall, where she’ll team with Saori Anou to take on Aya Sakura and Sayaka Kurara. Bold prediction: This could be the start of a new chapter for Itoh, one that cements her legacy in joshi wrestling.
But here’s the question that’s sure to spark debate: Can Maki Itoh’s unconventional style and massive online following elevate Stardom to new heights, or will her polarizing personality create friction within the promotion? Let us know what you think in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
