Tag: indie wrestling

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Sareee-ISM Chapter 2: A Pro Wrestling Dream Team

Saree sits on the ring apron and smiles at the camera

From on the ground in Japan, here’s a special preview of the second produce show promoted by Sareee, complete with words from the joshi superstar herself.

TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISSA MARIE
[except for official show graphics]


Following the success of Sareee-ISM Chapter 1, a complete sellout with a high streaming rate, Sareee is ready to do it again. This time, at Sareee-ISM Chapter 2, she is giving fans the best of the Western and Japanese styles by forming a pro wrestling dream team with the former IWGP Women’s Champion, KAIRI. 

While in Japan, I had the opportunity to speak with Sareee about Sareee-ISM Chapter I and choosing KAIRI as her partner for this latest round.  


“It had been a while since I last wrestled in Japan … wrestled Chihiro Hashimoto,” Sareee reflects. “Unfortunately, I was not victorious in my triumphant return match, but not being able to win fueled me.  I have now made it my personal goal to defeat Hashimoto in our next encounter.”

Sareee is speaking of the main event of her first produce show. Aside from the headline match not ending in her favor, the card was a resounding success on all counts. “That night, I was able to use all of the knowledge I gained here in Japan and overseas,” she tells me. “And I am very happy with the results and success of Sareee-ISM Chapter I.” 

Loss aside, the overall experience of the first Sareee-ISM show was all the encouragement she needed to want to do it again. But why only a four-match card?

“I believe that in pro wrestling, quality outweighs the quantity of the matches ,” said Sareee. “Fans pay to watch the best pro wrestling.”  And ain’t that the truth!

A higher number of matches doesn’t necessarily translate to selling more tickets. However, I would say that teaming with KAIRI will certainly help. Smiling, Sareee explained that “for the second show, I wanted to show the fans the best of both worlds [Western and Japanese styles of pro wrestling] and I can only do that with KAIRI; we are the only ones that can do it!”  While their respective experiences were very different, both Sareee and KAIRI worked tirelessly to incorporate their deep-rooted joshi training into their sports entertainment wrestling while under the WWE umbrella.

Headlined by the tag team match featuring Sareee and KAIRI, Sareee-ISM Chapter 2 will stream live worldwide via sareeelive.com: Friday August 4, 2023, 7:00 p.m. JST/6:00 a.m. EST/3:00 a.m. PST. 


The match card is one you will not want to miss:

Opening Match
Chi Chi vs Ibuki Hoshi

Second Match
Kaoru Ito & Kohaku vs Jaguar Yokota & Kizuna

Semi-Main Event
Miyuki Takase vs Mio Momono 

Main Event
Sareee & Kairi vs Arisa Nakajima & Takumi Iroha

I didn’t need much convincing to watch this show But, if you’re still unsure, Sareee has a message for you:

“I hope that all fans around the world stream this second chapter, where the beauty of Strong Style is showcased by the wrestlers that came before me, and the future of Joshi. This match card is a dream come true, from America to Japan, WWE/NXT to Sareee-ISM, KAIRI and I want to show you the best of pro wrestling of both worlds.  Thank you for your continued support! I look forward to the day we can meet again!”

And stay tuned for Part II of this interview, where Sareee and I talk about her typical day … and I share what it was like to watch her train with her mentor, Kauro Ito!

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RETURN OF THE SUN GODDESS

Sareee poses

Following her stay in WWE NXT, “Sarray” is gone … but Sareee has returned to Japan to rejoin the fight!

TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISSA MARIE

IN MARCH 2023, Sareee confirmed her departure from WWE, where she had competed on the NXT brand for the better part of three years under the name of “Sarray.” Now, she has returned to her original home of Japan with a reignited purpose: to show what pro wrestling, from her perspective, is all about.

Ahead of her much-anticipated produce show, Sareee took the time from her busy schedule to meet up with PWI Japan correspondent Issa Marie at TERA CAFÉ SHIEN ZOJOJI in Tokyo, for a special, in-person interview.

“Pro wrestling is a fighting art,” Sareee told PWI. “Strong showing between opponents. And, after two years of not being able to show it, my goal is to reintroduce the fans to my core fighting style.”

Though she impressed sizable, global audiences with her spirited performances on NXT, longtime fans of Sareee knew that she was not being utilized to her full potential. Prior to signing with WWE in early-2020, and relocating to the U.S. months later, this prodigy wrestler seemed destined to carry on the legendary, traditional Japanese style of All Japan Women’s Pro-Wrestling. She debuted at age 15 for World Woman Pro-Wrestling Diana, the only organization to carry on All Japan Women’s training system under the tutelage of joshi greats Jaguar Yokota, Kyoko Inoue, Kaoru Ito, and Nanae Takahashi. She pushed her body to the limit, learning foundational pro wrestling moves that require long years of discipline to truly master.

Sareee poses, raising both hands


In doing so, Sareee became “the last surviving hope” of joshi strong style wrestling. After six impressive years with Diana, including a tag title reign with Yokota, she joined up with Takahashi’s burgeoning SEAdLINNNG promotion. At Meiko Satomura’s Sendai Girls, she battled Chihiro Hashimoto in a series of hard-hitting and globally acclaimed matches. After returning to Diana in 2018, she finally claimed her home promotion’s top single championship … twice.

So impressive was Sareee that she was publicly applauded by her wrestling idol, Antonio Inoki, gifted a mask by Satoru Sayama (Tiger Mask), and given the blessing of Masahiro Chono to use his STF hold. It is unsurprising, then, that Sareee was recruited by WWE, where she would spend two years of her career learning the entertainment aspect of the sport she held so dearly.


While signing a WWE contract is a lifelong goal for many grapplers, for Sareee, it was an exciting new challenge. “At the time I was recruited, I was unfamiliar with the company,” she admits. “I was told I would be able to be a similar version of the pro wrestler I was in Japan … however, it wasn’t long before everything changed.”

Often working alongside newer and less experienced talent, the NXT talent known as Sarray was notably more subdued than the fiery ring warrior who had initially grabbed the attention of the industry leader. Her look and on-screen persona also changed, much to the chagrin of longtime supporters.

“While it was not what I had expected, I have no regrets,” Sareee reflected. “That time in WWE, I was able to learn about the entertainment side of the ‘industry’ that is not as prominent in most Japanese promotions.”

Called “The Sun Goddess” for her explosiveness and charismatic in-ring presence, Sareee speaks kindly of her former coworkers. “I really enjoyed working with Zoey Stark and Tiffany (Stratton) during my time in NXT and training with Franky Monet (AEW’s Taya Valkyrie),” she said. “We (Franky and I) wanted to have a match on TV because we had great chemistry when we trained and practiced together. We even went to management to see if it would be possible, but it did not happen.”

Sareee poses

Sadly, there were other matches Sareee looked forward to that were, for various reasons, not able to take place. “When I first learned about NXT, I saw a match of Ember Moon (AEW’s Athena), and I was amazed by her,” she recalls. “We were supposed to have a match, but it was canceled.”

Similarly, planned bouts with Toni Storm and Meiko Satomura were called off. If given the chance, Sareee would still like to wrestle these women. She also expressed interest in facing record-setting WWE Raw champion Bianca Belair. “I am very curious about her strength, testing her abilities and her limits,” said Sareee.

Considering that she had strayed away from the big promotions while in Japan, it seems reasonable to wonder whether competing at NXT was ever in Sareee’s best interests. On the other hand, the move made perfect sense, given her desire to showcase her vision of pro wrestling on a worldwide platform. After all the unique challenges she has faced, we had to ask: Does “The Sun Goddess” have any advice for her Japanese peers who might be considering training and wrestling overseas?

Sareee poses, spreading arms


“If there’s an opportunity to go, go for it!” she says. “Opportunities are few and far between [for us], so take advantage of them! Go for the experience!”

And that experience has inspired the 12-year veteran to produce her own card, Sareee-ISM, taking place on May 16, 2023, at Shinjuku Face event hall in Tokyo. The event will feature joshi wrestlers carrying on the torch of the traditional fighting art of Japanese women’s pro wrestling.

“I want to thank all of the international fans gained for their support, by performing and fighting in the style of pro wrestling that I have always believed in and love,” said Sareee. But, above all, she wants to be able to meet the high expectations that have been set.


“I received a lot of support and encouragement from the fans during my time with WWE, which helped me pull through during the hardest of times,” she told PWI. “I really appreciate them all, and want to give back to those who supported me, by being the best version of myself. I am very grateful for you all and look forward to seeing everyone again!

If you are not in Japan to watch Sareee-ISM Chapter 1, fret not, as the event will be streamed LIVE at https://sareeelive.com/

Note: The English Language Option can be found in its drop-down menu, top right). Start time is 7:00 p.m. local time, (6:00 a.m. on the U.S. East Coast, and 3:00 a.m. Pacific).

Poster for Sareee-ISM, Chapter 1
COURTESY OF SAREE/SAREEE-ISM


The match card for Sareee-ISM is as follows:

Opening Match
Riko Kaiju (SEAdLINNNG) vs. Yurika Oka (Sendai Girls)
10-minute time limit

Second Match
AKARI (Pure-J) & Arisa Nakajima (SEAdLINNG) vs. Ibuki Hoshi (Ice Ribbon) &
Miyuki Takase (Freelancer)
20-minute time limit

Semi-Main Event
Jaguar Yokota (Diana) & Nanae Takahashi (Freelance) vs. Kaoru Ito (Ito Dojo) & X [mystery competitor to be revealed at a later date]
30-minute time limit

Main Event
Sareee vs Chihiro Hashimoto (Sendai Girls)
30-minute time limit

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THE MORE THINGS CHANGE …

Madoka Kikuta connects with a lariat

Dragongate’s Madoka Kikuta Gets Deja Vu, Challenges Shun Skywalker A Second Time

TEXT & PHOTOS BY ISSA MARIE

TWO YEARS TO the date of his last Open the Dream Gate challenge, Madoka Kikuta finds himself in familiar territory as he is, once again, challenging Shun Skywalker—the man he faced that fateful night for Dragongate’s top prize. And the self-proclaimed “Game Master” has not only reminded Kikuta of his inability to finish that match, he has also “demanded” that Kikuta earn the opportunity and privilege to face him.

Skywalker has put the Kikuta through the “SSW Quest,” a series of games designed to break Kituta’s will, prove that he is an unworthy contender, and eliminate the undeserving (in Shun’s estimation) D’Courage powerhouse. As of this writing, the games are still ongoing, but Kikuta has vowed “to not back down or run away, no matter what obstacle Shun puts in front of me.”

As the standout of the 2019 DG rookie class, Kikuta set himself apart from his classmates, partly due to his size. And not only his size, but, as Dragon Dia initially pointed out—and Dragongate’s Jae was gracious enough to translate for us—Kikuta’s “Pixar Mom” build. Shortly after aligning himself with the now-defunct R.E.D. unit, the young grappler (then dubbed “Hip Hop Kikuta”) challenged Skywalker at #DEADorALIVE2021. Skywalker, then the leader of MASQUERADE and the company’s youngest-ever Dream Gate champ, shut down Kikuta in a very short and career-derailing match. 

Kikuta dislocated his shoulder early in the bout and would go on to miss an entire year of in-ring action. He would eventually make his return at #DEADorALIVE2022, teaming with his dojo classmate, Jacky “Funky” Kamei. This followed Kikuta’s rejection of SB KENTo’s offer to join Z-Brats, which had evolved out of the discontinued R.E.D. group.

The old “Hip Hop” was no more. Madoka Kikuta began his urgent quest to reset and restart his career. Dragongate fans all over the world were excited for his return. However, many of those fans were concerned when Kikuta showed a lack of confidence in some matches. It was as if something wasn’t clicking; like there was no “SPARKING (in his) CORE.” Thankfully, it wasn’t long before those missing pieces fell into place.

After months spent reacclimating himself to Dragongate, Kikuta offered a lending hand to D’Courage—the team of Dragon Dia and former Open the Dream Gate champion Yuki Yoshioka—as their enforcer, as he needed to prove that he belonged. And it wasn’t long before he won the Open the Twin Gate championship with Dragon Dia, stepping up to show what he was made of in Shingo Takagi’s return match at #FinalGate2021. More recently, Kikuta won the #ReyDeParejas2023 tournament with Yuki Yoshioka.

In the February 2023 edition of Pro Wrestling Illustrated, I wrote that Dragongate “…is the promotion where units are families, who will love, support, train, and encourage one another.” And the “BEST BOYS,” as I often refer to them, exemplify just that! This is a family made up of three men who want to create a new chapter in Dragongate history. In his own words, Kikuta is “here to kick ass.”

On the path of boosting his confidence and winning titles, Kikuta still felt a void—a feeling that his purpose had yet to be defined. To the surprise to no one paying close attention, a special return match last Christmas set his career path on the trajectory it is today. At #FinalGate2022, Kikuta teamed with YAMATO to face BxB Hulk and the returning Shingo Takagi. “Standing toe to toe with all of the participants in the match gave me confidence and reassurance in my abilities as a pro wrestler,” reflects Kikuta.

Madoka Kikuta originally chose to join Dragongate after seeing Uhaa Nation (now known as Apollo Crews), who became the talk of wrestling fans worldwide through his incredible mix of power and agility. “I was inspired by him,” says Kikuta. And, indeed, the two share similarities in power, strength, and in-ring abilities—the very qualities the rising Dragongate star wants to see fans associate with him.

Kikuta tells us he wants to experience lucha libre first-hand, as many Dragongate stars have. However, his recent overseas tour began with a two-day stop in Singapore, where his opponents learned the power of his mighty hip attack. “If the money is right, I am game to go anywhere and wrestle anyone,” he said.  

So, what’s next for Madoka Kikuta and his D’Courage allies? “We are on a quest to hold all of the titles and be the unit that carries the new generation for DG,” Kikuta told PWI. “Don’t take your eyes off my ass!”

PWI will be present at Aichi Prefectural Gym on May 5, covering the action live. If you are in Japan, make your way to Nagoya to witness Dragongate’s first major event of 2023. If you can’t be there, you can still watch the action via the promotion’s streaming network at dragongate.live.

And don’t forget: Two days earlier, the company’s May 3 live event from Kyoto KBS Hall will stream for free on the Dragongate Network. No registration will be required to watch!

RECOMMENDED VIEWING

Madoka Kikuta vs SB KENTo, First Round of King Of Gate Tournament 2022 (May 11, 2022)

Open the Twin Gate Championship Match, D’Courage (Dragon Dia & Madoka Kikuta) vs Kung Fu Masters (Jason Lee & Jacky “Funky” Kamei (September 19, 2022)

Rey de Parejas 2023 Semi Finals, D’Courage (Madoka Kikuta & Yuki Yoshioka) vs Z-Brats (Shun Skywalker & KAI) (March 3, 2023)

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE: Dragongate’s Madoka Kikuta Gets Deja Vu, Challenges Shun Skywalker A Second Time

TEXT & PHOTOS BY ISSA MARIE

前回の「オープン・ザ・ドリームゲート」挑戦からちょうど2年が経って、菊田円選手は再びドラゴゲートの頂点を立つ機会が廻ってきました。今回も王者・シュン・スカイウォーカー選手に挑戦することになりました。だが自称 “ゲームマスター “のスカイウォーカーは、菊田にあの試合をやり遂げられなかったことを思い出させただけでなく、菊田に自分と対戦する権利を要求してきた。

スカイウォーカーは菊田に「SSWクエスト」という一連のゲームを課しました。その目的は菊田の意志を破って、不甲斐ないことを証明し、D’Courageの強豪選手を排除するための試練となります。一方菊田は「どんな困難が待ち受けていても、必ず逃げない 」と宣言しています。

2019年のデビュー選手の中で、菊田の体格のおかげで同級生とは一線を画していた。そしてドラゴン・ダイヤは「素晴らしすぎる身体を持って、体型はまるで別次元のように見える。＊」まで言われました。あの頃はR.E.D.に所属し、DEADorALIVE 2021年でスカイウォーカーに挑戦した若きグラップラー（当時は「ヒップホップ菊田」と名乗っていた）は、その直後だった。当時MASQUERADEのリーダーであり、ドリームゲート史上最年少王者であったスカイウォーカーは短期間で菊田を完封し、キャリアに傷をつけるぐらい試合となった。

（＊アメリカン・アニメーションのミスター・インクレディブルという例えでした）

Madoka Kikuta connects with a lariat

菊田は試合開始早々に肩を脱臼し、その後1年間活動を休止することになる。その後、DEADorALIVE 2022年で同級生・ジャッキー “ファンキー “亀井とチームを組み、復帰を果たすことができた。その後菊田はSB KENTo選手のZ-Bratsへの誘いを断った。

かつての「ヒップホップ」はもういない。菊田円選手は、ご自身のキャリアをリセットと再スタートするための緊急ロードを歩みだした。同時に世界中のドラゴンゲートファンが菊田の復帰を待ち望んでいた。しかし、ある試合で菊田が自信をなくなって心配を掛けられた。まるで、”芯 “に火がついていないような、そんな感じだった。ありがたいことに、菊田が復帰してすぐに、その欠落していたピースがうまくはまった。

改めてドラゴゲートに慣れ親しんでいた菊田は、自分の居場所を証明するためにドラゴン・ダイヤ選手と元オープン・ザ・ドリームゲート王者の吉岡勇紀選手のユニット、D’Courageの強豪選手として手を貸すことになった。そしてダイヤと共にオープン・ザ・ツインゲート王座を獲得し、FinalGate 2022年での鷹木信吾選手の復帰戦では、自分の実力を示すためにステップアップしていった。さらに最近では、菊田は吉岡とともにReyDeParejas2023のトーナメントで優勝した。

2023年2月号で、私はドラゴゲートを「…ユニットが家族であり、互いに愛し、互いに支え合い、互いに訓練し、互いに励まし合う団体である」と書きました。ドラゴゲートの歴史に新たな1ページを刻もうとするこの3人の男たちも家族である。菊田自身の言葉を借りれば、「ぶっ飛ばしに来た 」のである。

自信をつけタイトルを獲得していく中で、菊田はまだ自分の目的が定まっていない空しさを感じていた。しかし、昨年のクリスマスに行われた特別な復帰戦をきっかけに、菊田は現在の道を歩むことになる。FinalGate2022では、菊田はYAMATOと組み、BxBハルクと復帰した鷹木真吾と対戦した。菊田は「出場選手全員と肩を並べたことで、プロレスラーとしての自信と安心感を得ることができました」と振り返る。

菊田選手は、パワーと速さを兼ね備えたレスラーとして世界中のプロレスファンの話題となったウーハー・ネイション（現WWEのアポロ・クルーズ）の姿を見て、ドラゴゲートに入団することを決めた。菊田は、「彼に影響された」と言う。パワー、体力、リングでの実力など、ドラゴゲートの新星が求める資質はまさにこの2人にある。

菊田は、多くのドラゴンゲート選手のように、ルチャリブレを直接体験したいと話す。最近の彼はシンガポールでの2日間ツアーの滞在から始まり、対戦相手は菊田の強豪なヒップアタックの威力を知ったのである。「お金が良ければ、どこにでも試合をし、誰とでもプロレスするつもりです 」と彼は言った。

菊田選手とD’Courageの盟友たちのこれからの目的は何だろう？「私たちはすべてのタイトルを保持し、ドラゴンゲートのために新しい世代を運ぶユニットになることを探求しています。」 菊田はPWIに語った。「私のお尻から目を離さないでね！」

PWIは5月5日に愛知県体育館で行われる大会に参加し、その模様を写真で生中継します。もし日本にいるのであれば、名古屋まで足を運んで、2023年のドラゴンゲートの初ビッグマッチを遊びに来てください。また、会場に来られない方も、dragongate.liveの配信サービスで観戦してください。

そして！5月3日に京都KBSホールで行われる大会はDragongate Networkで無料配信されます。視聴は登録不要です！

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SPECIAL PWI PREVIEW: DDT Goes To Hollywood

DDT GOES HOLLYWOOD CARD (c/o DDT & GCW)

Over WrestleMania Weekend, DDT Pro Wrestlers Battle Big Names From Game Changer Wrestling

Here’s What You Can Expect (In The Words Of The DDT Stars, Themselves!)

TEXT BY ISSA MARIE

FOUR YEARS AFTER taking over NYC and its streets, DDT Pro Wrestling does Hollywood in the only way it can. As part of The Collective, Dramatic Dream Team (DDT Pro), is returning to the U.S. to bring back its essence and wild uniqueness to North America. The promotion will present two highly anticipated shows: DDT Goes Hollywood (March 30) and GCW vs. DDT (March 31).  And, if President Sanshiro Takagi, has his way, this two-day overseas tour will be the first of many of its kind. 

I had prepared a lengthy dissertation as to why you should buy your tickets to the show before they are all gone; but instead, I’ll let the DDT roster coming to Hollywood do the honors themselves:

“It’s been two months since my last visit [to the U.S.’, so I hope to hear ‘welcome back’ chants, okay? MAO is back!  I’m going to run wild! Look forward to the DDT style.” – MAO, who will be teaming with his ShunMAO partner, Shunma Katsumata, to take on Chris Brookes and Yoshihiko at DDT Goes Hollywood; then reuniting with his Moonlight Express partner, Mike Bailey, in a match versus the East West Express, Nick Wayne and Jordan Oliver, at GCW vs. DDT.

“I’m very glad to be able to take part in DDT’s Hollywood show!  I’ll turn America into a sauna, so please give me your support!  I hope you feel my NEPPOWER!” – Shunma Katsumata, who also teams with his frenemy, Chris Brookes, and Mizuki Watase to take on Second Gear Crew at GCW vs. DDT.

“I’ve been dreaming of wrestling in America ever since I was Universal champion! My dream! Wait for me, and please remember my overflowing NEPPOWER! Neppower is my fighting spirit!” – Yuki Ueno, who will be facing Konosuke Takeshita at DDT Goes Hollywood, following their time limit draw at Itabashi Green Hall back in January; and Joey Janela at GCW vs. DDT.

Saki Akai
PHOTO BY ISSA MARIE

“DDT’s first Hollywood show! Everyone couldn’t come over, so I’ll do my best for the rest who couldn’t make it over to show the joys of DDT! Please enjoy the world of DDT☺️ My long limbs and kicks! And how graceful I am ♡” – Saki Akai, who will be facing Vertvixen at DDT Goes Hollywood and DARK Sheik at GCW vs. DDT.

“I won my very first KO-D openweight championship at the New York show in 2019, so [the U.S.] is a special country to me.  This time, I’ll make sure to be at the Hollywood show as Universal champion and make it a success with my high-flying moves and these big buttocks of mine that are disproportionate to my upper half,” – #AndNew DDT Universal champion, Tetsuya Endo, who will be facing Joey Janela at DDT Goes Hollywood; in an effort to avenge his loss during the 2022 D-Oh Tournament, he teams with Jun Akiyama to take on Tony Deppen and Homicide at GCW vs. DDT.

Jun Akiyama
PHOTO BY ISSA MARIE


“I hope that American pro wrestling fans can see how intense our wrestling is.  Even in my 31st year as a wrestler, I’ll show you that I can still be aggressive,” – Jun Akiyama, who will be teaming with Eddie Kingston at DDT Goes Hollywood, and will be teaming with his BURNING mate, Endo, to take on Tony Deppen and Homicide at GCW vs DDT.

“America will be my first time overseas, so I’m very excited. I’ll tap out whoever my opponent may be. What I hope you remember is … my Cobra Twist and everything about me!” – KANON, who is teaming with DAMNATION T.A.’s Charisma (Daisuke Sasaki) to take on Eddie Kingston and Jun Akiyama at DDT Goes Hollywood.

Yuki Ino
PHOTO BY ISSA MARIE


“SEXY!! OH! SEXY!! SEXY!!!” Pheromones’ Yuki Iino, who along with Danshoku “Dandy” Dieno, will be facing DDT’s Peter Pan, President Sanshiro Takagi, and DDT/AEW star Michael Nakazawa at DDT Goes Hollywood; at GCW vs DDT, the Pheromones will be unleashed when they take on BUSSY (Allie Katch and EFFY).

“I won a young guys’ league in DDT to go to Hollywood. I have to show I’m the number one in the young guys.  I learned Shorinji-kempo, which is a Japanese martial art. So, I want you to see my kick and punch.” – Takeshi Masada

If you haven’t done so, get your tickets before they sell out … these are two shows you won’t want to miss!

DDT GOES HOLLYWOOD CARD (c/o DDT)
DDT GOES HOLLYWOOD CARD (c/o DDT & GCW)




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Act Yasukawa Looks To Hollywood

Act Yasukawa pose by Issa Marie

The Actwres girl’Z Star Brings Her “Evil Actress Spirit” To WrestleMania Weekend

TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISSA MARIE

THE “JAPANESE DRUNKEN Samurai” with the “Evil Actress Spirit” is headed to Hollywood, and you do not want to miss out on seeing her!

The former Act Yasukawa, better known for wrestling in STARDOM as a member of Oedo Tai, wants fans to meet ACT (pronounced AKUTO), the current incarnation of Yasukawa representing ACT Wrestling (popularly known as Actwres girl’Z, or AWG).  “I am ready for the fans to meet this current and revolutionized version, ACT, who is very different from the past version most fans are familiar with.”

Act Yasukawa competed by Issa Marie

In pro wrestling, fans and analysts continually talk about the importance of an alternative. They reason that it makes sense to provide a product that is more appealing to a different demographic. Yet, when you look at most promotions—specifically in Japan—you will notice that nearly all of them share a similar structure in their training and business models.

And that is why AWG stands out. ACT wants to show the wrestling world the diverse talent that resides in the growing promotion, which, notably, differs from all others in one key way. “All of us are professional actresses,” she said. “Every expression, every move, we put our soul and heart to entertain the audience.  The organization is still very new when compared to the other promotions, but there is so much potential and talent in every member. Everyone has what it takes to become a superstar.  And, when we do come out to the states as a group, I want the US fans already looking forward to Actwres girl’Z.”

Act Yasukawa competed by Issa Marie

While that group trip hasn’t yet been realized, ACT is looking forward to the new experience of representing AWG over WrestleMania Weekend. “Previously, at Stardom, I traveled and wrestled as a member of Oedo Tai,” she recalls. “But this time, I am on my own, tagging with Aspyn Rose for the first time, as well as being a part of a four-way match against Brooke Havok, Kidd Bandit, and Billie Starkz. I have to prepare for the match, study their movements.  I am looking forward to it.” 

Indeed, with the latter four-way, Relentless Wrestling is starting off WrestleMania Weekend by giving us joshi fans a dream match we did not know we needed in our lives!

Act Yasukawa pose by Issa Marie

Speaking of dream matches, ACT is no stranger to them.  When asked to name hers, she could not settle on a single bout. “I have to say, it was Yuzuki Aikawa, August 19, 2012, Stardom 5STAR Grand Prix [tournament] match,” she said. “Or versus Kairi Hojo (KAIRI), on January 26, 2014, the Wonder of Stardom championship belt match. I cannot decide, because both bouts gave me a special impression that I will never forget.”

For the fans that will be introduced to her via her many appearances during WrestleMania Week, ACT has a personal message: “Hello everyone, I’m ACT from Actwres girl’Z. I am the ‘Japanese Drunken Samurai,’ by loving the Japanese culture and its sake, as I am called the ‘Evil Actress Spirit.’  Please enjoy meeting my different personalities, in and out of the ring. If you enjoy meeting me and my pro wrestling, I would also like you to know Actwres girl’Z through me.  Thank you very much!”

WrestleMania Week Schedule:

Act Yasukawa pose by Issa Marie

March 29

Pandemonium:  Pro Wrestling
5:00 – 7:30 pm PDT
Don Quixote Event Center

Relentless Wrestling
9:00 – 11:00 pm PDT
Don Quixote Event Center

March 31

WrestleCon (appearance/signing)
9:00 am – 2:00 pm & 3:00 – 5:00 pm PDT
Millennium Biltmore Hotel

April 1

WrestleCon (appearance/signing)
9:00 am – 2:00 pm PDT
Millennium Biltmore Hotel

April 2

WrestleCon (appearance/signing)

9:00 am – 2:00 pm PDT
Millennium Biltmore Hotel

Merchandise for Sale

Red USA-Exclusive T-shirts
Black USA-Exclusive T-shirts
4 different Act portraits
Two Shots (Cheki)
Act Yasukawa Lapel Pins
Actwres girl’Z Lapel Pins
Act Yasukawa Stickers
Additional Actwres girl’Z portraits

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GREETINGS FROM SOUTH PHILLY

BIG BOSS Shimizu executes a brainbuster variation

Dragongate’s BIG BOSS Shimuzu Tours The U.S.

TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISSA MARIE

NATURAL VIBES POWERHOUSE, BIG BOSS Shimizu, is on his first U.S. tour. Dragongate’s chameleon, due to his ability to transform and embody every personality he has been given since his debut, is hoping to show the new fans who are getting to meet him for the first time what he is all about.  “I am hopeful that the fans will be able to feel my passion and see my strength through my pro wrestling,” Shimizu said last Saturday at MLW’s #SuperFight.

BIG BOSS Shimizu executes a brainbuster variation

That passion was felt on February 3 at #GardenStateV, in his match against Robert Martyr, and, more notably, on February 4, at the historic 2300 (ECW) Arena. At the latter show, when NATURAL VIBES’ music was cut in the earlier part of their entrance, Kzy (singing acapella) and Boss got the crowd in sync to start the party.  

Growing up a fan of WCW and ECW, BOSS was more than excited to face the Full Blooded Italians (FBI) in defense of the Open the Twin Gate championship that night. “Sharing the ring with Little Guido is a dream come true,” said Shimizu. 

As he was getting ready for the match, we had to keep the conversation short, but I managed to ask the important questions: Since arriving in the U.S., Shimizu has enjoyed Popeye’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich the most; he believes the that the finals for Dragongate’s #ReydeParejas2023 will be NATURAL VIBES’ Jacky Funky Kamei & Jason Lee vs The Strong Machines, J & F.

In closing, Shimizu has a message for you and other PWI readers: “Since it is my first time wrestling in the U.S., I will ensure every one of my matches is memorable and enjoyable for the fans!  Thank you for your support during my first U.S. tour and I look forward to meeting you all at the venues.”   

U.S. Tour Schedule 

02-09 New Texas Pro Wrestling (Seminar & Match)
02-18 WrestleRave (Texas) 
02-25 MEW (Alabama) 
02-26 ETU (New Jersey) 

RECOMMENDED VIEWING:

BIG BOSS Shimizu vs KAI, Open the Dream Gate Title Match, March 6, 2022

Highlights BIG BOSS Shimizu vs BxB Hulk, Z-Brats vs NATURAL VIBES Singles Match, October 10, 2022

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Lights … Camera … Pandemonium!

Masha Slamovich vs. Johnny Hollywood (John Morrison/Hennigan) at Pandemonium Pro Wrestling

Pandemonium Pro Wrestling’s Exciting Evolution

TEXT BY JASON McVEIGH

“IT’S PANDEMONIUM!” THESE were the iconic words often uttered by the late, great Gorilla Monsoon when things on WWF television kicked up a notch. And while Gorilla, sadly, isn’t with us any longer, “Pandemonium” can still be found in the wrestling business. In particular, we see it on the West Coast, where a new promotion has adopted the moniker as a catch-all description for the action it offers.

Pandemonium Pro Wrestling is a Los Angeles-based wrestling promotion that debuted in 2021. In recent months, it has gotten increasingly serious about offering a product that captures the cinematic elements of Hollywood blockbuster films and merges them with professional wrestling. If you think of Lucha Underground and Wrestling Society X, then you are on the right track.

An earlier episode of Pandemonium TV. While still showcasing the stars of the L.A. independent scene, Pandemonium Pro Wrestling has since become more ambitious on the production side of things, taking inspiration from some interesting places.

The growing company features competitors from all over the world, from West Coast sensations like Kidd Bandit and the promotion’s current Gen Z champion, Wicked Wickett, to notable talent from major companies such as AEW’s Fuego Del Sol, IMPACT Wrestling’s Alan Angels, NJPW’s Yuya Uemura, and even former WWE Intercontinental champion John Hennigan (performing here as “Johnny Hollywood.”

The mission and vision, as laid out by the promotion itself, is for Pandemonium Pro Wrestling to showcase the talent of Los Angeles and the surrounding counties and place them into an environment with the cinematic feel of a Marvel film.

“Professional wrestling is one of the highest forms of performance art in the world,” noted PPW director/editor/wrestler, Kidd Bandit. “We wanted a company that departs from the sports-based presentation of pro wrestling and focuses on its parallels with a stage-play spectacle.”

This more theatrical approach can even be seen in the job titles given to the key people behind PPW. In addition to Bandit, the company lists Asan Washington as its CEO and Executive Producer and camera operator Hoby Lasko as its Cinematographer.

“We put a lot of emphasis on the larger-than-life personalities, the cinematography of the action, and the narrative of the stories,” said Bandit. And it’s this focus on production and visual elements that may help the promotion stand apart from the pack on a crowded indie scene.

Holiday in Hollywood marked the IWTV debut of PPW, and it was featured as our “Spotlight Card” in the January 30 edition of the PWI Weekly. The event, filmed on December 4, 2022, at the Jaxx Theatre in the heart of Hollywood, was a blend of everything that makes Pandemonium Pro Wrestling one of the hottest tickets in Tinseltown. From the high-impact fast-paced action of the opening lucha bout between Serpentico and Wicked Wickett to the impressive showcase of NJPW’s Young Lions, The DKC and Yuya Uemura, Holiday in Hollywood had a little something for most wrestling tastes.

The main event of that show was The Hollywood Classic: a hyper-competitive ten-person gauntlet match for the “Ticket To Hollywood” contract. Ishmael Vaughn won the contest, earning a future shot at either the dotTV championship or the Gen Z championship at any time.

With a broadcast deal that sees the product showcased on IWTV, Pandemonium Pro Wrestling is rolling ahead toward another big show on March 29.

“Our next event is called ‘dotTV Vol. 4: Best Damn Thing,'” revealed Kidd Bandit. “It will be headlined by the Rumble Riot Match for the Pandemonium Pro championship, as well as a dotTV title bout between Johnny Hollywood and Masha Slamovich. And the whole thing will be available for viewing on IWTV VOD.”

To paraphrase Horace Greeley, if you are looking for something a little different in the wrestling sphere right now, go West, young person! Because, in Hollywood, it’s Pandemonium out there.

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THE RISE OF SHUN SKYWALKER

Shun vs. Yuki

THE RISE OF SHUN SKYWALKER

Why He Will Conquer The Wrestling World

Shun Skywalker raises his hand

TEXT & PHOTOS BY ISSA MARIE

LAST TIME WE spoke with Dragongate’s self-proclaimed savior, Shun Skywalker, he was headed to Mexico and the U.S., to show his ruthless strength and prove why he personifies the level of talent DG has to offer. And, in the two months since his return, Skywalker has been on a tear:

1. Took the Triangle Gate title from M3K
2. Championed the disbandment of HIGH END
3. Challenged for the Dream Gate Championship.

But what about his quest to end Kzy and NATURAL VIBES?

“We will, how do you say it …” he says, searching for the right words.

Put a pin in it?

“Yes, put a pin on that,” agreed Skywalker. He then added, with a maniacal laugh, “for now!”

Shun Skywalker applies a cravat hold.

At this moment, Skywalker is applying some of the lessons he learned during his recent North American tour.

“While there are many great wrestlers in Dragongate, in America, I found many wrestlers with different talent, attributes, styles, wrestling psychology … something I had not seen or experienced before,” he revealed. “I also returned to Mexico to train, gain new experience, work with the promotions I was not able to work with during the global pandemic, and wrestle luchadores I have wanted to work with, like Dragon Lee, Komander, Jack Evans, Aeroboy, and Ciclon Ramirez Jr.”

Though he locked up with numerous wrestlers—and briefly wore the MLW World middleweight title—Skywalker was able to single out a favorite battle. “My match in GCW against Nick Wayne,” he said, citing the teenage prodigy currently under a developmental-like deal with AEW. “His ideas and style embody what pro wrestling is. He has a great and promising future. And I am excited to see what the future holds for him … and what our next match will be like.”

Originally, Skywalker indicates he had no immediate plans to return to the U.S. However, on November 24, he was announced as the second entrant in the 2023 edition of the celebrated Battle of Los Angeles tournament. The announcement prompted us to reach out to him for a follow-up.

Shun Skywalker's maniacal laughter

During his 2019/2020 excursion, Shun Skywalker had expressed his desire to wrestle at Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (home of the BOLA tourney) and face the likes of Bandido, Mike Bailey, A-Kid, and Lucky Kid. Unfortunately, the pandemic derailed any possibility of making those match-ups a reality. When Skywalker returned to Japan, he captured the prestigious Open the Dream Gate championship; however, the proverbial Gates were still closed worldwide. Now, there’s nothing stopping him from continuing to show the world his style of wrestling; that he is, in his mind, the greatest wrestler on the planet; and why PWG wants Shun Skywalker.

“My first-round match is against Aramis, but I am also looking forward to the prospect of wrestling Konosuke Takeshita, Daniel Garcia, Lio Rush, Komander, and my teacher, friend, brother, and rival, Bandido,” Skywalker said. “Three years ago, when wrestling shows were suspended, I spent most of my time in Mexico training with Bandido. He has beaten me twice, has made his mark in the world, is an AEW-contracted wrestler. But I do not think he is better than me. I have gained the power and the experience I did not have at the time we faced each other … and have evolved as a beautiful idol with a crazy spirit.”

Skywalker, confident in his own abilities, has vowed that he will win the 2023 Battle of Los Angeles tournament. But he’s also got other things on his wild mind. On Christmas Day, he interrupted Ben-K and Yuki Yoshioka as they thanked one another for the great match they’d just had—a gesture of goodwill that Skywalker did not appreciate!

Shun vs. Yuki

“Certainly, Ben-K vs Yuki Yoshioka was a good match,” he acknowledged. “In pro wrestling, there needs to be respect between opponents. However, wrestlers do not need to make commercialized praise and shows of affection. When I heard their declarations in the ring, I grabbed a microphone and spoke my mind.”

In his view, the current Dream Gate champ is simply not the best man for the job. “Yuki Yoshioka should not hold the title that shined the brightest when it was mine,” he said. “I do not want the Dream Gate championship [belt] that he has…I detest the title ‘HE’ holds and I have no interest in carrying that unnecessary baggage. But, I do not want someone who is weak, has devalued the title, and whose stupid fans just love his cheap impressions. So, I issued the challenge.”

Shun Skywalker brawls outside the ring

And we do not have to wait long to see that match! Dragongate General Manager, Ryo Saito (SaiRyo), made the title bout official for the company’s January 12 Korakuen Hall show. Taking place just days after Skywalker’s PWG jaunt, the DG show will be streaming live via dragongate.live with English commentary.

Make sure you subscribe! Because, the day before that match, Shun Skywalker and the rest of Z-Brats will be involved in a unit-disbandment match against HIGH END (YAMATO and Dragon Kid), with the assistance of Takashi Yoshida and Problem Dragon.

“In Dragongate, broken or incomplete units are unnecessary,” said Skywalker. “In the hierarchy of units, HIGH END does not belong or deserve the place they continue to hold. SaiRyo, as a former wrestler, and now GM, has betrayed the unit code and has used his power and position to allow for the emotional nepotism they represent. If the GM is not apt to do his job, then Shun Skywalker will take over. I will enforce my laws and police all the undeserving talent in Dragongate.”

Shun Skywalker laughs on the entrance ramp

Though he may be a little autocratic, Skywalker still knows where his bread is buttered. Thus, he has a message for fans who watched him on his most recent excursion. “I know you enjoyed my matches,” he said. “I understood when you said, ‘I love Shun, I want Shun, I need Shun in my life.’ I know you want me back and want me booked at those shows again. Do not forget to remind the promoters to do so.”

シュン・スカイウォーカーの夜明け

TEXT & PHOTOS BY ISSA MARIE

前回の取材では「ドラゴンゲートの救世主」を自称するシュン•スカイウォーカー選手が、自身の冷酷な強さやドラゴンゲートの最高峰な選手であることの証明のために北アメリカ大陸へ向かったところまで。そして彼はこの2ヶ月の間に以下の功績を残した:

  1. M3Kからトライアングル・ゲート奪還
  2. HIGH ENDの解散宣言
  3. オープン・ザ・ドリーム・ゲート挑戦表明

ですがKzyやNVの駆逐はどうなっていますか？

「どう表現すればいいでしょうか?」と探りながら考えてるスカイウォーカー選手。

あとにする？

笑いながら「あとにしよう。そう、今の話をね」

現在のスカイウォーカー選手は北米ツアーでの経験を日本に活かしている。「ドラゴンゲートは素育らしい選手がたくさんいるが、アメリカのいくつかの選手は今まで僕が考えたことのない能力、特徴、スタイルやプロレス哲学を持っていた。また2年ぶりにメキシコへ帰って、たくさん経験に積んでコロナ禍で出場できなかった団体に出場して、ずっと戦いたかったドラゴン・リー、コマンデル、ジャック・エヴァンス、アエロボーイ、シクロンラミレスJr.というルチャドールとも肌を突き合わせることができました。」

多くの選手と試合をし、MLW世界ミドルウェイト王座も一時期獲った中、一番楽しかった試合を尋ねると彼はすぐ答えられました。

「GCWでのニック・ウェイン戦です。」

AEW所属の若手鬼才選手だ。

「彼の考えやスタイルこそがブロレスだ。将来もとても期待できるし、楽しみにしています…彼との次の対戦も。」

元々スカイウォーカー選手はアメリカに戻る予定はなかったが11月24日PWG 「Battle of Los Angeles 2023年」に出場することになりました。その発表で今回の記事に至りました。

彼は2019-2020年の遠征中にPWGでバンディード、マイク・ベイリー、A-Kidやラッキー・キッドといった選手と対戦したいとの意向を示していた。しかし残念ながら、パンデミックによってそれらは叶えられなかった。ドラゴンゲートに帰還してオープン・ザ・ドリーム・ゲート王座を取ったが水際はまだ緩和されなかった。

現在は彼のプロレスを示し続けることを止められるものは何もない。

「世界最高レスラー」はPWGがシュン・スカイウォーカーを欲しがる理由についても語った。

「一回戦の相手はアラミス選手ですが、竹下幸之介、ダニエル・ガルシア、リオラッシュ、コマンダーそして先生であり、友人、兄弟、ライバルであるバンディードも楽しみです。3年前にコロナの影響で大会ができなくなった時ほとんどの時間メキシコでバンディードとトレーニングしました。その後、彼は世界に名を講かせて今はAEW所属となりました。ただそれは、彼が僕より強い事を表す事象ではない。彼はシングルマッチで2度僕を葬っているが、それは5年近く前の話。前回と比べて力、経験を増して…今は常人にはない魂を持つ美しい才能へと進化しました。」

Shun Skywalker taunts his opponent

スカイウォーカー選手はご自身の能力に自身を持って今年のBOLAを優勝することに宣言した。クリスマスの日にBen-Kと吉岡勇紀がお互いに素晴らしい試合を感謝しあっているところに割り込んできた。スカイウォーカー選手にとって気に食わない行動だった。

「確かにBen-Kと吉岡勇紀は素晴らしい試合だった。プロレスでは、お互いにリスペクトが必要だ。だが、こんなくだらない褒め言葉や愛情表現なんていらない。あれを聴いたら思わずマイクを持って本心を言った。」

「一緒にメキシコ遠征でトレーニング相手であり元同士でもある吉岡選手はそれだけで済ませない。」彼にとって、現ドリームゲート王者である吉岡選手は最適な人物ではないことを公言した。「吉岡は、私が持っている時に最も輝いていたタイトルを持つべき選手ではない。ドリームゲート王座がこんな…余計な荷物(吉岡選手)を背負わせるなんて興味がない。しかし弱くて、タイトルの価値を下げて、愚かなファンが安っぽい印象が好きになった王者は気に食わないので挑戦しました。」

Shun Skywalker poses backstage

ですがあまり長く待つ必要はない！ドラゴンゲートゼネラルマネージャーである斎藤了さんは1月12日の後楽園ホール大会でのタイトルマッチを正式にご決定した。スカイウォーカーのPWG遠征の数日後に行われる大会は、英語の解説付きでdragongate.liveで配信される。

今のうちに加入ください！

しかも、その試合の前日に、スカイウォーカー選手とZ-Brats、HIGH-ENDのYAMATOとドラゴンキッドが吉田選手と問題龍選手の協力を得て、ユニット解散マッチが見れます！

「ドラゴンゲートには、ガラクタや不完全なユニットは不要だ」とスカイウォーカー選手は言い放った。「HIGH-ENDは、数あるユニットの中でも不要な存在です。元レスラーであるGM斎藤了は、ユニットと認められる要件を設けず、権力を利用して彼らが楽徴する縁故主義を広めているのです。斎藤了が妥当なGMでなければ、このシュン・スカイウォーカーが引き継ぎます。僕なりの法を整備しドラゴンゲートの不相応な選手含め全てを牛耳ってもいい。」

少し独裁的ですが、スカイウォーカー選手は欲しいものを手に入れる方法を知っている。遠征でファンになった方々に一言メッセージを送ります!

「試合は楽しいだろう。”シュンが好き、シュンが欲しい、人生にシュンが必要だ”きっと早く戻ってきて欲しいのでしょう。早くブッキングしてほしいでしょう。だったらプロモーターに伝えておいてね。」

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STRONG MACHINE J: Opening The Twin Gate With Breakdancing Aggression

Strong Machine J poses

STRONG MACHINE J: Opening The Twin Gate With Breakdancing Aggression

Strong Machine J poses with Natural Vibes

Text & Photos by Issa Marie

WHEN YOU ARE a second-generation wrestler, there is often undue expectation placed on you to carry the family legacy … or even exceed it. This also creates an excess level of stress for such an individual to show that they have the potential and ability to succeed on their own merits. Strong Machine J (SMJ) understands this better than most, being the son of New Japan Pro-Wrestling icon Super Strong Machine.

Making his debut in 2019, SMJ quickly showed that he was very much his father’s son by winning his debut match using his dad’s trademark Machine Suplex Hold. He became a champion in record time, maintained an eight-month undefeated streak, and was later named Tokyo Sports 2019 Rookie of the Year.

Unfortunately, a shoulder injury in late-2020 sidelined SMJ for eight months. And his inability to rely upon the Strong Machines once the unit was disbanded served as the catalyst for things to change—arguably, for the better!

He reflected on this during a recent conversation with PWI: “Upon returning from injury in August 2021, failing to capture the Twin Gate titles with Strong Machine K at Dangerous Gate in September 2021, and the disbandment of the Strong Machines at the beginning of the year, I found myself alone … wondering what was next for me.”

SMJ in action

For the better part of February, March, and April, we saw SMJ team with numerous partners, most of whom he enjoyed great chemistry with.

Heading into King of Gate, we noticed an even greater change in SMJ. He began to show a level of aggression we had not seen before.

“I wanted to show more of who I am,” he said. “So that units in Dragon Gate would notice that there was more to the ‘Strong Machine’ of the past.”

Strong Machine J poses

And the units took notice! HIGH END—most notably, YAMATO, with his “I pay J, I pay!” sales pitch—was the first to publicly show interest in SMJ.

However, unbeknownst to us at the time, there was another leader willing to give SMJ the chance and platform he was seeking, after months where he questioned if he would be able to break through the Machine name expectations that had been placed on him.

“Kzy saved me,” said J. “He saw my potential and has made it possible for me to have opportunities in Natural Vibes, be the truest version of myself. The side I always wanted to show. But, most importantly, who I needed to be.”

When SMJ incorporated his breakdancing into Natural Vibes’ entrance at the King of Gate Finals, it was such a surprise that the audience (momentarily) broke with the staunch no-cheering rule, put in place many months ago to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

“Joining Natural Vibes has given me the ability to utilize my strength to enhance the unit and show the world what I am capable of,” J told PWI.  “I have now subtlety changed my image and revealed a side of me that was unknown to the fans. Old-school Strong Machine. Incorporating an aspect of my personal life, breakdancing, [which is] something I have done from a young age.”

Along with the breakdancing, SMJ has continued to display a new fire inside the ring—most recently, during a no-DQ bout at Dangerous Gate. And, after a key win against the current Open the Twin Gate champions, SMJ and BIG BOSS Shimizu will challenge for the title belts at Gate of Destiny on November 6. You can sign up for the network, DragonGate.live, to watch.

Stay tuned for part two of this interview, as we discuss the leading role Strong Machine J has assumed and why his words are not always full of “Good Vibes Only.”

SMJ on the entrance ramp

RECOMMEND VIEWING

Strong Machine J and Strong Machine K vs KING Shimizu and Yokosuka Susumu, Open the Twin Gate Championship at Dangerous Gate 2021

Strong Machine J vs Shun Skywalker, King of Gate 2022, May 25, 2022 (starts at 15:00)

Strong Machine J joins NATURAL VIBES, June 2, 2022 (starts at 3:09)

Open the Triangle Gate Championship Three Way Match – HIGH END vs NATURAL VIBES vs M3K, Kobe World 2022 (starts at 8:23)

NATURAL VIBES vs Z-Brats, October 5, 2022 (starts at 17:25)

Kzy and Strong Machine J vs KAI and H • Y • O, October 23, 2022 

二世代選手ともなると無理に期待されるでしょう。それに伴い、自分の実力で成功するために過剰なストレスを感じるでしょう。元・新日本プロレスの象徴であるスーパー・ストロング・マシーン選手の息子ことストロングマシーン・J選手は誰よりも理解している。

2019年のデビューで、父の必殺技である「魔神風車固め」で見事に勝利を果たしました。間もないころにチャンピオンになって、8カ月間無敗でその後東京スポーツ2019年の新人賞に選ばれた。

しかし、2020年末に肩を痛め、8カ月間欠場することになりました。そして、ストロング・マシーン軍団が解散し、属するユニットも無くなってご自身の変化のきっかけとなりました。

PWIとの会話の中で振り返りました。「2021年8月に復帰し、デンジャラス・ゲート大会でストロングマシーンKとツインゲート王座を奪取できず。　年明けにストロングマシーン軍対が解散するとになり、一人になりました・・・次はどうなるのかと思いました。」

SMJ poses outdoors

2月から4月にかけて、色んな選手とタッグを組み、KING OF GATEに入るとさらに大きな変化が起きました。これまでに無かったアグレッシブ面も見せられました。

「もっと自分を出したいんだ。ドラゴンゲートのユニットが過去の“ストロングマシーン”と今までは違う。」さっそく注目したのはHIGH ENDのYAMATO選手でSMJ選手にすぐ売り込みに来ました。

私たちが知らないうちにSMJ選手が求めていたチャンスを与えてくれた別のリーダーが待っていた。「マシーン」という名を超える機会を。

「私を助けてくれたのはKzy選手でした。ナチュラル・ヴァイブスで自分の可能性を見開いて、本当の自分で居られることができる。ずっと見せたいと思っていた面を。何よりも自分のあるべき姿を」

KING OF GATEでSMJ選手がナチュラル・ヴァイブスと入場する時にブレイクダンスを披露した結果、あまりにも大きな反響で会場の観客が一瞬応援禁止ルールを破ったのだ。

「ナチュラル・ヴァイブスに加入したことで、自分の力を生かしてユニットをもっと発揮でき、自分の実力を示すことができるようになりました。ちょっとだけイメージを変え、私生活の一面であるブレイクダンスをファンに見せることができました。」

ブレイクダンスと共にリング上では新たな炎が沸き上がりました。最近ではデンジャラス・ゲートでの活躍やツインゲート王者相手に見事な勝利を収めました。今後の11月6 THE GATE OF DESTINY大会ではSMJ選手とBIG BOSS清水選手がツインゲート王座に挑戦することになりました。「https://dragongate.live/」で見逃すな。

後編は後日公開する予定なので是非ご期待下さい！

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Ho Ho Lun’s Mission To Show The Beauty Of Wrestling Across Asia

Ho Hu Lun at Dragon Gate

Ho Ho Lun’s Mission To Show The Beauty Of Wrestling Across Asia

Ho Hu Lun at Dragon Gate

Text & Photos by Issa Marie

HONG KONG NATIVE Ho Ho Lun began wrestling in 2009 … as a hobby! It wasn’t until a visit to the UK, two years later, that he made the decision to make it a career. Unlike most prospective wrestlers, who set their sights on being world champions, Lun knew that his niche was not the wrestling itself, but the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making a great show.

As the first non-Japanese Asian-born wrestler to compete around the world, Ho Ho Lun wanted to create opportunities for others like him. “Japan dominates the wrestling market in Asia; However, pro wrestling in Japan was difficult to access due to language barriers,” Lun told PWI.  “And you know as well as I do that not all the streaming services are easy to navigate, as the English option is something that has [only recently] been available. So, I thought, why not bring Japanese talent for a tour in Asia to allow the fans to experience it firsthand?  I watched Dragon Gate growing up, and I would order the DVDs from the U.S. My DVDs would be of wrestling in Japan, purchased in the U.S., and traveled across the world, just so I could watch.”

Ho Hu Lun at Dragon Gate

While at NXT, Lun took a chance that not many would by choosing to leave the company after receiving an offer to produce shows in Macao. This, along with his current work in Dragon Gate, further solidified his true purpose in the world of pro wrestling.

“I wanted to bring the best live wrestling, world-class wrestling, to Asia, working with the next generation of talent,” he said. “I love wrestling, but my heart and soul are in the foundation of building a great show and enhancing the undiscovered talent of Asia.”

Lun has worked to expand the wrestling markets in China, Malaysia, and, as a consultant, in the Philippines. During Dragon Gate’s Hong Kong tour in 2018, he made the decision to take his talent and vision to Japan, joining the company as a wrestler and one-half of the English commentary team.

Despite his trailblazing efforts, Lun’s approach is a familiar one to many promoters. He said: “My philosophy, to expand and garner a greater interest in pro wrestling, is to pair up a well-known wrestler and an up-and-coming talent.”

Indeed, this is the advice he gives to all the wrestlers and promotions he encounters in his travels.  This answer piqued my interest, as I had seen that business model in Singapore at SPW’s Klash of Kings. I wondered: If Ho Ho Lun could establish his own promotion anywhere in the world, where would he do it, and whom would he bring to wrestle?  “Singapore,” Lun immediately answered.  “Singapore has the most supportive fans, language is not a barrier, and they have some amazing talented wrestlers. Thailand interests me as a future project. And, as to who I would bring? Jacky Funky Kamei and, of course, the Kung Fu Masters.”

In addition to wrestling and providing English commentary, Ho Ho Lun also manages Dragon Gate’s talent bookings in the U.S.  If you are interested in having Dragon Gate wrestlers take part in your show, feel free to email him at hoholun@hotmail.com or DM via Twitter @hoholun719.

Ho Hu Lun at Dragon Gate

アジアプロレスの美、それがホー・ホー・ルンの使命。

香港生まれのホー・ホー・ルン選手は元々趣味で2009年にプロレスデビューを果たした！しかし2年後のイギリス遠征でプロレスを仕事にしようと決心したのです。世界王者を目指す大抵のプロレスラーと違って、ルン選手は素晴らしい大会を作るための舞台裏の仕事が自分のニッチェだと理解しました。

Ho Hu Lun at Dragon Gate

ホー・ホー・ルン選手は世界で活躍初日本人じゃないアジア人として彼のようなレスラーにチャンスを与えたいと考えていた。「アジアのプロレス市場は日本が覇権していますが、日本プロレスには言葉の壁がありアクセスしづらいでした。大抵のプロレス配信サービスは利用しづらいし、最近までは英語のオプションが利用可能になっていた。そこで私が提案した：だったら日本のプロレスラーを連れてアジアツアーをやって、ファンのみなさんに直接体験してもらうのはどうでしょうか？私は子供の頃からドラゴンゲートを見てアメリカから輸入することにした。日本プロレスを見るためにアメリカから購入し世界中を回ってやっとお手の元に届いた。

NXT在籍中にマカオでプロレス大会を制作するオファーを受けて退団すると決意しました。そして現在はドラゴンゲートでの活躍はプロレス界に存在意義はさらに確固たるものとなった。

「私は最高なライブプロレスと最高峰なプロレスを新世代の選手と共にアジアの手元に届けたい。私はプロレスが大好きですが、心と魂は素晴らしい大会を作り、アジアの未知なる才能溢れるアジア人選手を高めたい」

Ho Hu Lun at Dragon Gate

ルン選手は中国とマレーシアのプロレス市場の拡大に集中し、フィリピンの市場もコンサルタントとして努めました。ドラゴンゲートの2018年香港ツアーでは心を決めて日本に移住し、選手として加入しながら英語のコメンタリーチームも務めました。

先駆的な努力にもかかわらず、ルン選手のアプローチは多くのプロモーターにとって馴染みのあるやり方を選択する。「プロレスの普及と感心を持たせるために有名な選手と若手選手を試合させることに組み合わせることにした。それが私なりのプロレス哲学です。」

それこそが、旅先で出会ったプロモーターやレスラーにこのようなアドバイスをしている。私もシンガポールで開催されたSPWの「Klash of Kings」でまったく同じビジネスモデルを見たことがあるからだ。そしてこう思った：もしルン選手は世界のどこかでも自分の団体を立ち上げるとしたらどこでやるのか？どんな選手を呼んでくれるのか？

「シンガポール」と即答したルン選手。

「シンガポールには、最も協力的なファンがいて、言葉の壁もないし、才能を持つレスラーもいる。タイは将来的に興味があります。誰を呼ぶとしたら？それが勿論、ジャッキー・ファンキー亀井選手とカンフーマスターズだ」