Tag: Interview

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RHIO Talks U.K. Dominance, AEW All In and WrestleMania Weekend

SINCE THE TITLE’S INCEPTION in 2017, 28-year-old Rhio has defended the PROGRESS Women’s championship more than any champion has during one reign. Successfully defeating a dozen-plus challengers, including Lana Austin, Kanji, Nina Samuels, Delmi Exo, and Session Moth Martina, is no easy feat.

Rhio’s PROGRESS title run has reached more than 400 days, but it’s by no means her only accomplishment worth celebrating. The U.K. powerhouse ranked #25 on the 2024 “PWI Women’s 250,” making her the highest-ranked U.K. freelancer on the 2024 list.

PWI‘s Kristen Ashly spoke with Rhio about her record-breaking year.

ASHLY: Congratulations on your “PWI Women’s 250″ ranking! You made #25. What do you think made this year so special?

RHIO: This year, I’ve broken records and made history in some of the top independent promotions in Europe. I feel this year has been my best work so far, and with every challenge I’ve come out stronger. Also, this year I made my debut in the U.S., which is another big milestone for me. I think this year has had many special moments for me, so many amazing matches and incredible opponents. Opportunities have come and I’ve just run with it. Just as I think it can’t get any crazier, it does.

ASHLY: You’ve held multiple titles during the evaluation period for this year’s list. Do you have one that you’re particularly proud of? Is there one you think is missing from the list?

RHIO: I’m particularly proud of holding both the ICW and PROGRESS Women’s championships, especially when I was holding them at the same time. Both of these championships are legitimate world championships and have such a rich lineage. So, to be able to join the list of incredible women that have held these championships means a lot to me. In terms of one I feel is missing, I am definitely going to be working towards the RevPro Undisputed British Women’s championship. 

Rhio holds aloft the PROGRESS and Insane Championship Wrestling Women’s belts. Given the breadth and depth of competition surrounding each prize, she believes both championships to be legitimate world titles. (PHOTO BY ISSA MARIE)

ASHLY: One title you should feel incredibly proud of is the PROGRESS Women’s title, which you held the entire evaluation year. What defense did you find the most difficult?

RHIO: I’m extremely proud of holding the PROGRESS Women’s world championship. It’s hard to say which is the most difficult defense as there has been quite a few. But some of the ones that spring to mind are: the 4-way ladder match I had at this year’s Super Strong Style 16, myself versus Emersyn Jayne, myself versus Lizzy Evo, and myself versus Kanji, off the top of my head.

ASHLY: What defense do you think is still missing?

RHIO: I feel me [against] the DEFY Women’s champion is something that is missing. Especially with the partnership of PROGRESS and DEFY. So, hopefully that is something we can do. 

ASHLY: U.K. women’s wrestling is known as some of the best in the business. How do you feel the U.K. stacks up against other countries?

RHIO: Oh, I agree the U.K. women’s wrestling scene is incredibly strong at the moment, and I’m proud to be a part of it. We have one of the best women’s wrestling scenes in the world. So many beautiful, strong, and talented women that will step to anyone to prove themselves. Women putting in consistent hard work.

Rhio joins Saraya’s entourage at Wembley Stadium during the second AEW All In event.
(PHOTO BY LEE SOUTH/©ALL ELITE WRESTLING)

ASHLY: One incredible moment to see as a Rhio fan was your in-ring appearance at All In, supporting Saraya. How did that moment feel?

RHIO: I loved appearing at AEW All In supporting Saraya. And being a part of a moment that involved two incredible British women [Saraya and Jamie Hayter] in front of a huge crowd at Wembley was very special.

ASHLY: How did that opportunity come about? AEW has a wonderful group of U.K. talent. Is that somewhere you’d like to wrestle on a regular basis?

RHIO: The opportunity came about after I received an email inviting me to Cardiff and All In. AEW has so many amazing British wrestlers and is definitely somewhere I could see myself wrestling regularly.

ASHLY: WrestleMania Weekend in Philadelphia was the time to see Rhio! You had two title defenses that weekend, one for PROGRESS and one as part of Kevin McElvaney’s ThrashElvania. Both were incredible matches; did you have similar mindsets going into them?

RHIO: I loved wrestling in Philadelphia over Wrestlemania Week. I loved all of my matches. I would say my mindset going into them was very different, as the one for PROGRESS was a singles match with the former champion I beat, and someone I know very well (Lana Austin). So, with that said, I knew she was coming into this with extra motivation. Whereas my match at ThrashElvania was a triple threat with two women I have never wrestled before. So, I went into that match knowing that I didn’t have to be pinned to lose. I didn’t fully know what to expect from my opponents. So, I had to watch my back even more in that one.

Delmi Exo gets clobbered by Rhio’s side headbutt during their triple-threat bout for the PROGRESS Women’s title at ThrashElvania, which took place over WrestleMania Weekend.
(PHOTO BY ISSA MARIE)

ASHLY: Do you approach a match differently when you’re facing more than one opponent, or an opponent that you don’t face often?

RHIO:  When it comes to approaching my matches, I always approach them differently. Because I know that all my opponents are different, they think differently, and they move differently. 

ASHLY: Also that weekend, you faced Shoko Nakajima on a TJPW show. This isn’t your first time wrestling for TJPW. Is it different wrestling in the U.S. for TJPW, as opposed to Japan? Do you find wrestling British Style is different from joshi? Are there adjustments to make?

RHIO: It did feel different wrestling for TJPW in the U.S. as opposed to wrestling for them in Japan. I don’t really know why, I can’t quite figure that out. But it was definitely different for me. The British and joshi style do have their differences, but the prominent similarity is they are both a hard-hitting style, which I think transcends well. If I get to face Shoko Nakajima again, which I hope I do, it’s more [that] I need to adjust to her in particular, not the style. Again, it goes back to me taking every opponent as they come.

Rhio catches Alex Windsor with a missile dropkick (rendered all the more devastating by a trash can) during the exceptionally violent 10-woman tag at RevPro’s latest anniversary event.
(PHOTO BY SCOTT LESH)

ASHLY: Looking at your resume, your match in August for the 12th Anniversary of RevPro featured what was easily one of your best matches of the year: the no-DQ 10-woman tag team match. Do you find it’s harder to create a memorable and maybe cleaner match with so many opponents?

RHIO: The 10-woman tag at RevPro for their 12th anniversary was very special. A match of that caliber is definitely not an easy task, but I feel everyone in that match was so different, so everyone showed out in their own unique way. When you have so many experienced and talented people in one match, it does make it easier. We also had an amazing person who helped and supported us. (Thank you, Will Ospreay.)

ASHLY: Wrestling fans can agree your career trajectory is amazing to watch. What’s next for you?

RHIO: I’m so proud of my career trajectory so far, and I plan on keeping the momentum going and the good times rolling. I don’t know what’s next for me, but I’m very excited for my future. I’m going to keep working hard and be open to every opportunity that is presented to me. 

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HYAN On Her Global Wrestling Campaign

SHE CALLS HERSELF “The Renaissance Woman” … and, as 2024 draws to a close, no one is questioning that moniker. Hyan has remained one of the highest-ranking indie wrestlers on the annual “PWI Women’s 250,” ranking at #35 in 2024 after coming in at #45 last year. Not holding a full-time wrestling contract is no problem for the Texas native, whose in-ring abilities and proven drawing power continue to garner her bookings worldwide.

Hyan had plenty to share with PWI’s Kristen Ashly regarding her 2024 global wrestling campaign.

ASHLY: This has been a big year for you when it comes to PWI lists. You made the “PWI 500″ for the first time and are back in the 30s at #35 on the “Women’s 250.” What made this a pillar year for you?

HYAN: I think taking a chance on myself by going on long excursions overseas, as well as making wrestling my full-time job, (contributed) to my success this year. I’ve been putting in the work for a long time and it’s very cool to see it pay off.

ASHLY: You, as I wrote in your bio, really had a fantastic global campaign. You returned to Europe, this time in Germany, competing for the wXw Women’s title. Now, outside of the “W250” evaluation period, you’re spending time in Japan (at Marvelous and Pro Wrestling NOAH). Does traveling step you outside your comfort zone?

HYAN: Going overseas, especially for the first time, 1,000% takes me out of my comfort zone. New culture, new opponents, new languages (at times). It’s all a learning experience and really puts your skills to the test.

ASHLY: What do you feel wrestling internationally does for your style?

HYAN: I try to add something from every place I’ve wrestled into my style. The U.K. has a fast and explosive style that’s been molded by Will Ospreay, and that is something that I’ve definitely taken with me to the States.

ASHLY: You faced Giulia for the NJPW STRONG Women’s title at Fighting Spirit Unleashed. How did that opportunity come about?

HYAN: I’d been very vocal about wanting to wrestle for NJPW. And I feel like I just kept putting it out there in the universe for it to come to fruition! It definitely helps to network and meet people. I don’t think I would have gotten that opportunity without Andy Quildan and RevPro.

ASHLY: Fighting Spirit Unleashed was an incredible card. What was your experience working side-by-side with joshi talent, luchadoras, and NJPW legends?

HYAN: It’s a crazy thing to say, “I was on the same card as Tanahashi.” His match was before mine, and when he came through the back I did a little air guitar gesture at him and he did it back. It was a cool li’l moment for me. I have a cool life [laughs].

Hyan poses with a copy of the October 2024 PWI, which contains a writeup on her recent acting exploits.

ASHLY: You won this year’s Queen of the Indies by defeating Masha Slamovich. You lost to Masha in the first round of the 2023 tournament. How did it feel defeating Masha this year? Did you use anything that you perhaps learned from last year’s match? How did you prepare for it?

HYAN: It’s hard to prepare for something like Queen of Indies, because you don’t know who you will end up wrestling past the first round. It’s a literal marathon of wrestling. I thought it was a cool, full-circle moment to wrestle Masha in the finals. I genuinely believe she is the best woman on the indies, and one of the best wrestlers, period. It’s always an honor to get in the ring with her.

ASHLY: Finally, any goals for your upcoming year? How does the 2025 “Renaissance Woman” campaign look?

HYAN: My hope is to wrestle in more countries next year! Australia, Canada, and Mexico are on my lists for sure. My family is Mexican, and I still have family that live there. It’s one of my dreams to have my mom watch me wrestle in Mexico.

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MINA SHIRAKAWA Talks Mariah May, Toni Storm, And Staying Authentic

THOUGH REGARDLESS OF where MINA SHIRAKAWA ranks, fans demand more of her, “The Venus'” spot in the 2024 “PWI Women’s 250″ mirrored how much fans clamored for the 36-year-old Stardom sensation. 

Her year was fantastic. Shirakawa became a phenomenon in All Elite Wrestling as the savior to her tag team partner and friend Mariah May. She traveled extensively across the globe to assert her dominance. She challenged and defeated some of the best wrestlers in the world. All of this without sacrificing her sense of self or originality. Authentically Mina.

In celebration of Shirakawa’s spectacular 2024—and ahead of her appearances with May on AEW Rampage and at Full Gear—we present her written interview with PWI’s KRISTEN ASHLY.

ASHLY: Congratulations on making it to number 16 on the “PWI Women’s 250″! You jumped 35 spots to make the top 20. What do you think changed this year that created such a big leap?

SHIRAKAWA: That jump is because I’m the most international women’s professional wrestler; for most of the year I’ve been flying to wrestle on weekdays in the United States and then on weekends back in Japan. I think the reason I’ve managed to rank so high this year is because there’s a lot of wrestling fans that know who I am now.

ASHLY: You wrestled in the U.K. for the first time this year. In your first appearance for RevPro, you defeated Dani Luna for the RevPro Undisputed British Women’s title. Are there any differences between wrestling British style vs. joshi? Any differences when wrestling in North America?

SHIRAKAWA: I think that British wrestling is quite similar to Japanese wrestling, and the fans were happy when we had a technical wrestling match. One of my signature moves is the figure four, and the fans erupted in cheers when I tapped the champion out with it to win the title. It’s really gratifying to know that my decision to become a professional wrestler wasn’t a mistake. In comparison, I think American-style wrestling is more dynamic. I don’t really change my style of wrestling when it comes to big matches, but I’ll change the types of moves that I use.

Mina Shirakawa uses her signature figure-four leglock to submit Dani Luna and capture the RevPro Undisputed British Women’s championship. (PHOTO BY SCOTT LESH)

ASHLY: You’re returning to the U.S. in what is being reported as a longer tour. Are those reports true? What are your hopes for this time in the U.S.?

SHIRAKAWA: I’ve been making Mariah (May) wait a lot, and I plan to stay in the United States until her feelings of loneliness are gone. I’m here to celebrate her championship win and wrestle a lot of matches as [our team] Rose Gold.

ASHLY: Mariah has turned into what you could call a primadonna. Has your friendship changed since she turned on her idol, Toni Storm?

SHIRAKAWA: Our friendship hasn’t changed in the slightest. We’re still best friends forever. However, I am a little concerned that she’s acting a bit weird recently … but I think with me by her side, she’ll calm down again soon enough.

At Mariah May’s urging, Toni Storm and Shirakawa shake hands after their Forbidden Door AEW Women’s title bout. (PHOTO BY KEVIN McELVANEY)

ASHLY: Your triangle with Mariah and Toni created a huge title opportunity for you at Forbidden Door 2024. Are you still hungry for the AEW Women’s title? Would you face Mariah for it?

SHIRAKAWA: I know that Mariah has worked so hard, both in AEW and in Stardom. Right now, I just want to be able to celebrate her championship win with her. The two of us overcame a lot of hardships together in Japan, so I’m celebrating with her as if I’d become champion.

ASHLY: Since Mariah’s betrayal, you’ve tagged with Toni Storm. Has your relationship with Toni changed? Do you feel closer because of Mariah?

SHIRAKAWA: Well … I’d still like all three of us to be friends. I know that Toni must’ve been really hurt after Mariah betrayed her like that, so I wanted to give her my emotional support. I believe that if I love them both, then we’ll all be able to be friends again. Toni and I are good friends back in Japan. Not only in matches, but privately as well.

Shirakawa and Storm prepare to a tag-team hip attack on AZM. (PHOTO ©STARDOM)

ASHLY: Within Stardom, you’re well-known for amazing tag team wrestling. You won the Artist of Stardom championship with Maika and Xena in March. Do you feel differently about tag team wrestling over singles action? Do you have a preference?

SHIRAKAWA: Xena and Maika are both powerhouse wrestlers, and when the three of us are in the ring together, we’re very smart and synchronized—we defeat anyone! But honestly, I prefer singles matches to tag team matches. With tag team matches you have the support of your partners, whereas in singles matches you have to try and manage everything by yourself. I love the feeling of tension that comes along with singles matches because I think to myself, “How am I meant to take down a bigger opponent if my strength is much less?” It’s like playing chess within your own mind, and I enjoy it a lot.

ASHLY: Stardom has really opened itself to work with international partners, and you seem to be a main beneficiary of that advantage, appearing everywhere. Do you feel it’s easy working with other companies? Have you learned anything in the process?

SHIRAKAWA: To be frank, it’s difficult! It kind of feels like I’m starting a new life all over again. Everyone in Stardom already knows the kind of person that Mina Shirakawa is—the fans, the staff, and other wrestlers. Yet I love meeting other wrestlers when I go to different companies. You have to start off by getting to know others; when I’m in attendance at shows run by other companies, I make the effort to talk to as many staff members as possible instead of just sitting in the waiting room. I have to study the matches of my opponents because I’m not familiar with their movesets. But by watching an AEW show from beginning to end, I can see the types of things that I can add to the show, so I always make sure to watch it the whole way through … and it helps me study English, too.

One company Shirakawa knows well is New Japan Pro Wrestling. In December, she’ll face Johnnie Robbie, an outstanding talent from the U.S. indies. 

ASHLY: You’re wrestling Johnnie Robbie at Strong Style Evolved. Mercedes Moné also happens to be main-eventing. Are there any plans to challenge her for either of her belts at the show?

SHIRAKAWA: I’ve been friends with Mercedes Moné for around five years now, but we’ve never had the opportunity to meet in the ring, even though I’ve always wanted to wrestle her. I’d like to challenge her when I’m at my best mentally. I don’t know when that will be, though.

While Shirakawa’s talent is undeniable, one important aspect of her greatness is her ability to stay true to herself, despite pressures otherwise. It’s a trait that many fans relate to and hold on to for inspiration.

ASHLY: In a recent installment of my PWI women’s wrestling column (“The W Column”), I explained how inspirational you are to women with your refusal to hide from your past. How is staying true to yourself important in wrestling? What would you say to a woman who is feeling shame for who they are?

SHIRAKAWA: There are no answers in wrestling, so you have to go through with the decisions that you believe are the best ones. Really, it’s a test to see how much you believe in yourself. With life, people will try and tell you that you can’t do this, or that you can’t do that. You can’t let yourself be fooled by those people. I hate the saying, “This is how a woman should be.” I want to face the world as a human being regardless of what my gender is. You’re the only person responsible for what happens in your life, and you’re the only person who can make it interesting. If there’s no example of that, then there’s no shame in beginning now. No matter when you start, it’s never too late; you can make it work if you try your absolute hardest!

(PHOTO BY SCOTT LESH)

The past year was a pillar year in the career of Mina Shirakawa. The fans continue to chant “We Want Mina,” and Shirakawa is more than happy to oblige. The future looks bright for “The Venus.”

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THE SYSTEM WORKS

Brian Myers & Eddie Edwards In Conversation With Pro Wrestling Illustrated

The reigning TNA Wrestling World tag team champions reflect on their success to date and get real about their competition ahead of this weekend’s “Under Siege” event.

TNA Wrestling's The System: Eddie & Alisha Edwards with Brian Myers
TRUST THE SYSTEM: Eddie & Alisha Edwards talk shop with Brian Myers at a recent TNA Wrestling TV taping at South Philadelphia’s 2300 Arena. (PHOTO BY KEVIN McELVANEY)

FOR TWO VETERANS like Brian Myers & Eddie Edwards, spending your days basking in former glories could be a perfectly acceptable way to spend one’s career at this point. That’s not what motivates these men, however. Not content to ever phone it in, the accomplished duo are the current, reigning TNA World tag team champions. And Myers & Edwards spoke with PWI’s Jason McVeigh just days before competing at TNA’s Under Siege event. In the conversation below, they tell our readers how it feels to be on top of TNA Wrestling as part of the faction known as The System … and how they still strive to steal the show each and every night.

McVEIGH: So, Under Siege is coming up this Friday. You’re involved in a big six-man tag team match against Matt Hardy and Speedball Mountain. I guess I’ll ask Brian first, what can we expect from the match?

MYERS: I mean, it’s going to be very exciting, right? Six top-tier wrestlers in the main event, you know, anything’s possible in that situation. The System right now is really cooking … we’re out to prove a point, we’ve had some of the best six-man matches the past four months. Put them up against any other trios matches in the entire business. And this will be no exception. And if Matt Hardy thinks he’s going to rejuvenate his career at the expense of The System? He is very, very wrong.

PWI: Just on that one, Eddie, talk a little bit about Matt Hardy. This is Matt’s first match back in TNA, obviously. Is there anything you’re concerned about going against him?

EDWARDS: I’m not concerned. I think Matt, should be the one who’s a little concerned. You know, he’s been gone for quite a while now. Things have changed since he’s been gone. The System is at the top of the mountain right now. And it’s something that he has to understand, like Brian said: Matt’s not going to come in and get the buzz off of beating The System. And we already beat Speedball Mountain. Now, Matt’s back to get a taste of it, too. It’s going to be exciting because it is the first time Matt is back in a TNA ring in however many years. And that’s a cool thing, and it’s going to be cool to be a part of that. But it’ll be even better to put an end to it pretty quickly.

PWI: You guys are the TNA World tag team champions right now and you’ve spent a lot of weeks as a ranked team on Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s web and print rankings. Why is this partnership working so well?

EDWARDS: It’s because there’s a lot that goes into it. It’s not just the stuff that happens in the ring. We are friends outside the ring. Me, Moose, Alisha … we’ve been best friends outside of the ring for a while now. So, this has been percolating for a while before The System formed. And me and Brian, when we get in the ring, we have that same trust and that same respect for each other in the ring that we do outside of it. I think that shows every time we’re in there. Because you can see that having fun, we’re kicking ass, we’re doing it together, and we get to have these great matches together.

MYERS: Yeah, it’s a mutual admiration for each other. We’ve always had that, and then we’ve become best friends. And that shows in the ring. Thenm there’s the professional side of it where you literally have two of the most accomplished tag team wrestlers of our generation, coming together to be a super team. So, all things have fallen into place.

PWI: You kind of touched on it there, Brian … you both are very accomplished tag team wrestlers. What is it that keeps tag team wrestling exciting for you both?

MYERS: I love tag team wrestling. Obviously, I love being a singles competitor, too. I just love wrestling in all shapes and sizes. But I think what we have going now is Eddie and I are out there to steal the show every single night and try to improve on our performance every time we go out there. And I feel like these past four months, we’ve really done that. Each time just gets a little bit better and a little more in sync. That’s what you look forward tom and that’s what keeps me heading into these TNA weekends where I’m like, Okay, sick, we can keep this frigging thing going.

PWI: The System has seen a lot of success in TNA this yearm and it’s been a lot of fun to watch you guys do what you’re doing. Can you speak a little bit on the dynamic of the group? You know, not just the two of you, but Alisha and Moosem as well?

EDWARDS: Yeah, I think it’s a family group. Like I said, we are best friends outside the ring and Alisha keeps us in line. She’s kept me in line for so many years. But also, she’s done that in the back for so many years at this point, that I think it comes across on screen and in the ring, as well. It’s tough to find a group where people aren’t selfish, and they’re not focused on themselves. But this group isn’t. And it’s because we do have this relationship outside of the business.

MYERS: The bottom line is: The System’s real, and that’s why it’s working. And that’s why it’s going to continue to work. It’s as real as it gets in whatm at times, is a very fake industry.

PWI: What can we expect from The System going forward?

MYERS: I see no end in sight, nor do I look forward to that. I want this to go on for as long as we can. I want to live in the moment and be present, knowing that this is a great time in my career. We’re all having a freaking blast being best friends, doing what we do best, and stealing the show, and having fun. That’s what my life and career is about right now.

EDWARDS: Yeah, it’s the same for me. We all realize that we’re doing something special, and it feels like a special time for our careers, but also for the company. We want to capitalize on that. We don’t want to sell ourselves short or do anything to dilute the group. We want to run with this as long as we can to continue to drag TNA up that mountain.

PWI: There’s been a lot of changes in the company recently, but both of you have been loyal to the promotion for a while. Why is TNA the right place for Brian Myers & Eddie Edwards?

EDWARDS: For me, I’ve been here for over 10 years at this point. And I have said all along that the company has always treated me with respect and treated me right. So, that’s the reason that I’ve stayed here all along. But, at this point, it’s about what I want to do with my career. I don’t want to be on the road all the time. I enjoy the schedule that we have. I have a family; I have a daughter at home that I love being home with. And I love our locker room. It’s a group that I can truly buy in on. I buy in to what we’re doing. And I feel that we all have that same sense backstage, where we all know what we’re doing, and that we are all trying to drive this company forward. We keep chugging away, I’ve been trying to learn for 10 years, but I like where we’re going. That’s why I’m still here. And that’s why I believe in TNA.

MYERS: TNA is one of the best things that ever happened to me in my career. It’s just been such a perfect fit for so many reasons. They allow me to be the best version of myself. It’s been a collaborative effort, and a fun creative thing.

PWI: We are still only a few months into this run that The System are having. But are there any moments that stand out?

EDWARDS: Winning the tag team title for sure. And just being in the ring together. The first time we hit our pose in front of the hard cam … that was cool and something that’s burned into my mind.

MYERS: I would say the debut of Nic Nemeth at Hard to Kill, also. Even though it didn’t exactly turn out great for The System on that night, the upside I saw was that it was going to get a lot of people talking about us and about TNA. So, to be a part of that and hear the reaction was a big deal.

PWI: Favorite TNA tag team of all time?

MYERS: I loved America’s Most Wanted. When Matt (Cardona) and I were breaking into the business and were clueless 18-year-olds trying to figure out wrestling, AMW were the best babyface tag team in wrestling, and we really tried to watch their stuff and see what they were doing right. Because they were really getting after it at the time.

EDWARDS: Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin. They’re two of the absolute best on their own and as a team. What they’ve accomplished is next level. And also, a team that was in TNA and so many other places is the Hardys. I was lucky enough to be in there with them when I was a member of The Wolves. I was a big fan of Matt and Jeff growing up, and just everything they accomplished. So, I put them up there, as well.

PWI: What do you want PWI readers to know about Eddie Edwards & Brian Myers in 2024?

EDWARDS: That we’re not going to stop. We’re in it for the long haul, and this is just the beginning.

MYERS: Yeah, and that The System is the real deal and we’re out there trying to steal the show every night and bring more eyeballs to TNA. We’ve got the hardest-working locker room [at TNA], and we are a part of that.

MORE INFORMATION ON TNA UNDER SIEGE

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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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MIYUKI TAKASE IS ONE TO WATCH

Beyond the pages of Pro Wrestling Illustrated, here is the extended version of our written conversation with freelance joshi standout Miyuki Takase, which formed the basis of our “One To Watch” feature in the October 2023 edition of PWI magazine. Our special thanks to Mr. Haku for his assistance with conducting and translating the interview.

Miyuke Takase: PWI One To Watch

PWI: What are some of your earliest memories of wrestling? Who were the performers that drew you to the sport?

Takase: I actually began wrestling with zero knowledge; I didn’t know the rules, the history, or wrestlers. The first wrestler that caught my attention as being cool, after I debuted, was Rina Yamashita. I wanted to become a cool wrestler like her. Years removed, I think I can safely say that I had an eye for talent from the outset!

PWI: Who trained you? Where and when was your debut?

Takase: My debut match was on January 15, 2017, at Shinkiba 1st Ring. The wrestler that taught me how to bump was Leon, from JWP (currently PURE-J). Initially, we only trained a few times a month at a Judo dojo that didn’t even have a ring. Eventually, we were allowed to train at dojos of other promotions, and Leon as well as the other JPW wrestlers taught us everything from scratch, including bumps, basic throws, dropkicks, etc. From there on, a lot of wrestlers taught me a lot of things, and I am grateful to all of them.

PWI: Share a bit about your signature moves, move set, and finisher.

Takase: I’ve used the Kamikaze ever since my debut; it’s a move that Ricky Fuji gave me permission to use. I also use the Rolling Stone (spinning brainbuster), which Ricky Fuji named for me, too. Other than that, the fans might associate me with the backhand chop and lariat.

PWI: What are some of your biggest accomplishments and bouts to date?

Takase: Winning the “Catch The Wave” singles league (round-robin tournament), which featured a lot of participants with much longer careers than mine.

PWI: You’ve had some great runs as a tag team wrestler; what does tag team competition offer to you that is different from your work as a singles competitor?

Takase: I am attracted to the fact that you can accomplish things in a tag team that you cannot do alone. 1 + 1 can be more than 2, even 10 or 20. I also learn a lot from my partners; not just moves and techniques, but also about looks, presentation, etc. I also attempt to, and enjoy,  making my partner shine.

PWI: You show incredible ability to withstand pain and to come back against your opponent stronger and stronger as the match goes on. How do you explain this?

Takase: During my matches, I listen a lot to the seconds [wrestlers in Takase’s corner] and fans. I start my matches by depending on my momentum and willpower, but when the going gets tough, the fans cheering for me is what gives me infinite power; it gives me the will to get back up, telling myself that it’s not like me to give up just yet. The cheering sinks in deeper when my situation is particularly dire. The fans are my greatest strength and my treasure, so I am really happy that vocal cheering is back at shows.

PWI:  What are your goals for the future?

Takase: I want to have more matches overseas, meet wrestlers I haven’t met yet, and want many more people to get exposed to Japanese pro wrestling. I want to enjoy pro wrestling together with all of those people. One day, I want to bring together all of my favorite wrestlers and run a show outside of Japan!

Learn about freelance wrestling promotions in Japan, including NOMADS (cofounded by Miyuki Takase, Rina Yamashita, and others) via the video below from Karen Watches Wrestling:

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AWG RESTRUCTURED AND REVITALIZED

ACT Yasukawa wrestles

How Actwres girl’Z Continues To Shape Joshi Pro Wrestling

TEXT & PHOTOS* BY ISSA MARIE

(*except where noted)

IN PRO WRESTLING, the desire for viewing alternatives may be at an all-time high. Fans and analysts consistently speak on the need for promoters and wrestlers to provide something truly different. And yet, in Japan, you will notice that most companies share a similar structure in their training and business models … and that is why Actwres girl’Z stands apart.

Sixteen years ago, AWG President Keiji Sakaguchi created one of the most innovative concepts in the industry: a school and promotion that specialized entirely in training actresses and idols in the art of pro wrestling. His vision was to appeal to a fan base not traditionally drawn to the world of wrestling. And he wanted to create an alternative that would open opportunities for women in the field. To his credit, President Sakaguchi has succeeded on both counts!

Actwres girl'z training ring

While in Japan, I was invited to attend an Actwres girl’Z training session, to get a better perspective of who these folks are and what they do. Immediately, what stood out to me was the shared work ethic and how welcoming the trainers were to prospective talent. That day, three new recruits participated in their first training session, and the rest of the team ensured they were properly integrated and included.

And that is what makes Actwres girl’Z so special: a group of women working together, building a space where everyone is welcomed regardless of their level of training; where the only requirement is to be willing to work hard and give it your best.

Act Yasukawa poses

Understanding that most of the newer recruits have actual jobs, the promotion is very flexible with its schedule, to ensure every member is able to meet their training commitments.  I believe ACT (Yasukawa) said it best during her interview: “All of us are professional actresses. 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 U.S. fans already looking forward to Actwres girl’Z.”

ACT Yasukawa wrestles

What distinctly separates Actwres girl’Z from all other Japanese joshi organizations is its ability to recruit and maintain new talent throughout the year. The strength of Actwres girl’Z lies in the system of building these budding performers into diverse professionals who wrestle and perform across various media. Aside from in-ring action, the talent make TV appearances, host radio programs. They participate in magazine and online interviews, modeling, live talk shows, and other individualized events. 

Since 2007, Keiji Sakaguchi has created opportunities: training, managing, producing, and transforming actresses, idols, models, and athletes. And, in doing so, he markedly changed the landscape of women’s wrestling in Japan, founding the platforms that launched some of the most recognized names in joshi, allowing them to thrive and even reshape the wrestling industry: Kairi Hojo (KAIRI), Saori Anou, Natsumi Maki (Natsupoi), Himeka, Tam Nakano, Miyuki Takase, SAKI, Rico Kawabata, Act Yasukawa, Yuna Manase, and Fuuka. Mr. Sakaguchi is responsible for the exchange program that allowed many of his young talent to wrestle in various organizations, where they established themselves as superstars.

AWG behind the scenes

In 2015, Actwres girl’Z’ event promotion and talent management saw the creation of its first branded group, called “Beginning.” Through TV and media exposure, many prospects applied and joined from all over Japan. By demand, Actwres girl’Z added another brand, “COLOR’S,” in 2019. [Editor’s note: Representatives of this group notably went on to compete in Stardom throughout 2022, as AWG alum SAKI continued the brand as a traveling unit of wrestling freelancers.]

Before long, both brands grew to their maximum capacity. And, in December 2021, Actwres girl’Z retired both brands, with a plan to renew and reinvent its system into more broadly appealing and acceptable style.  

Actwres girl'z roster
PHOTO COURTESY OF ACTWRES GIRL’Z
Actwres girl'Z roster
PHOTO COURTESY OF ACTWRES GIRL’Z

In 2022, Actwres girl’Z relaunched and reorganized, splitting the company into “ACTRING” and “ACTwrestling”—distinct brands where the wrestlers are able to portray different roles and styles, showcasing their diverse abilities.

“ACTRING” is a theatrical experience, using the ring as a performance stage where plots and anime storyboards play a big role. Pro wrestling (moves & bouts) are incorporated into the scripted battle-act scenes. Actwres girl’Z performers play characters specific to ACTRING, with new shows premiering monthly.

In contrast, “ACTwrestling” is focused on solid pro wrestling shows with minimum staging and no elaborate setups. The stars perform as themselves (read: their joshi selves), and their goal is to connect with the fans while gaining Actwres girl’Z “points.”

Actwres girl'Z training

A promotion that runs under its own rules and regulations, ACTWrestling is creating a new and true form of sports entertainment … and a brand-new vibe.  At times, match cards are decided by fan votes and through the Actwres girl’Z point system. The Actwres girl’Z stars collect credit points by fan votes, individual ticket reservation sales, merchandise sales, participation in wrestling practices, number of media exposures, luck, etc. And their rankings help determine future show bookings.

AWG in the ring

Presently, the current Actresgirlz roster is made up mostly of newer and younger stars: Misa Matsui, Kouki, Sumikawa, Marino Saihara, Chika Gotoh, Natsuki, Naru, Chiaki, Iwai Kyoka, Marina Hamada, with many more to debut, under the mentoring and guidance of veterans Miku Aono, Act Yasukawa, Mari Sakamoto, Mii, and Yumi Agawa.

Now, international fans can experience the show across the promotion’s multiple outlets:

Streaming Service: Actwres girl’Z.net

YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@ACTWRES GIRL’Z

Official Website: Actwres girl’Z.com

But that’s not all! Follow along with me on this website, as I take you through a journey of discovery—or, if you have been following AWG for a while, rediscovery—in a series of upcoming blog posts.  Stay tuned for individual spotlights on the roster members and so much more!

RESTRUCTURED AND REVITALIZED: How Actwres girl’Z Continues To Shape Joshi Pro Wrestling

TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISSA MARIE

Actwres girl'z training

プロレスでは、色んな選択肢を求める声がかつてないほど高まっている。ファンや業界関係者からは、団体やレスラーが常に違うなにかを提供する必要性があります。日本では、ほとんどの団体のトレーニングやビジネスモデルにおいては同じような構造を持っていることに気づかされます。だからこそ、アクトレスガールズの存在感は際立っているのです。

16年前、AWGの社長である坂口敬二は、女優やアイドルをプロレスで育てることを目標とした学校と団体、業界初なコンセプトを立ち上げた。彼のビジョンは、従来のプロレスファンではないファン層にアピールすることだった。そして、プロレス界で活躍する女性の活躍の場を広げる選択肢を作りたかった。幸いなことにどっちも成功したようです！

Actwres girl'z exercise

日本滞在中、運よくアクトレスガールズのトレーニングに招待され、彼女らがどんな人たちで、どんな仕事をしているのかを理解するためにきました。一番目立ったのは、トレーニングに対する姿勢と、トレーナー達が新人たちへの温かさ・歓迎していることでした。その日、3人の新入生が初めてのトレーニングに参加しましたが、先輩たちは問題なく新入生たちにトレーニングに含まれていることを確認しました。

これこそがアクトレスガールズの魅力。彼女らが協力し合い、練習のレベルに関係なく誰もが歓迎される空間を作り上げる。唯一必要な条件は一生懸命に頑張る気持ちを持つこと。

新入生の多くが仕事をしていることを考慮し、団体側ではメンバー全員が練習に参加できるようスケジュールを柔軟に設定しています。 惡斗さん昔こう言った：「私たちは全員プロの女優です。表情も動きも、お客さまを楽しませるために魂を込めて演じています。この団体は、他の団体と比較するとまだ新しいのですが、メンバー全員に才能があり誰もがスーパースターになるために必要なものを持っています。そして、私たちが団体として全米に進出する時には、米国のファンの皆さんには、すでにアクトレスガールズを楽しみにしていてほしい」とのことです。

Actwres girl'z training ring

アクトレスガールズと他の女子団体と違って、年間を通して新入生を募集し維持し続けることです。アクトレスガールズの強みは、新入生を様々なメディアで活躍するプロフェッショナルに育てる。リング上だけでなく、テレビ出演やラジオ番組の司会もこなします。雑誌やネットのインタビュー、モデル、トークライブなど、個性なイベントにも参加しています。

坂口社長は2007年以来、女優、アイドル、モデル、アスリートなどの育成、マネージメント、プロデュースなどの機会を作ってきました。安納サオリ、万喜なつみ（なつぽい）、ヒメカ、中野たむ、高瀬みゆき、SAKI、川畑りこ、安川惡斗、まなせゆうな、風香など、女子プロレス界で最も有名な選手を育て上げ、彼女たちを成長させ、プロレス業界を再構築させるプラットフォームを設立し、日本における女子プロレスの状況を著しく変化させる。坂口社長は、多くの若い選手を各団体のプロレスに参加させ、スーパースターとしての地位を確立させた責任者である。

2015年、Actwres girl’Zは初のブランドグループ 「Beginning 」の誕生を見ました。テレビやメディアへの露出により、日本全国からたくさんの応募が来ました。ご要望にお応えして、Actwres girl’Zは2019年にもう一つのブランド「COLOR’S」を追加しました。

[編集部注：このグループの代表は、AWG出身のSAKIがフリーランサーとしてユニットを継続し、2022年を通じてスターダムに出場したことが注目されている]

2021年12月をもってアクトレスガールズはプロレス団体としての活動終了を発表しました。プロレスを用いたよりエンターテインメント性の高い公演へと移行するために

大幅な方針転換となりました。

2022年では、アクトレスガールズはリニューアルし、「アクトリング」と「アクトレスリング」に分かれて再編集されました。

「アクトリング」はストーリーやアニメがメインでリングを舞台にして独特な世界観であります。プロレスのアクションシーンが含まれます。アクトレスガールズの選手たちが「アクトリング」で別のキャラクターを演じ、毎月新しいイベントが開催されます。

一方、「アクトレスリング」は演出を最小限に抑え、従来のプロレスに近い大会を中心にします。選手たちが実名で戦って、ポイントを取得しながらファンとつながることを目標としています。

「アクトレスリング」は独白のルールで運営される団体で新しく「真」のスポーツエンターテイメントを創造しています。たまに試合のカードはファン投票やポイントシステムで決められています。アクトレスガールズの選手たちがファン投票、個人チケット予約枚数、グッズ販売の売り上げ、練習への参加、メディア露出の回数、運などでポイントを集められる。そのランキングは今後のブッキングの判断材料になります。

現在の所属メンバーは若手が多く含まれています：松井珠紗、皇希、澄川菜摘、才原茉莉乃、後藤智香、夏葵、なる、CHIAKI、岩井杏加など。練習生の方はベテランの指導のもとデビューを目指しています。そのベテランたちは：青野未来、惡斗、坂本 茉莉、未依と阿川 祐未となります。

是非配信サービスやYouTube、公式もチェックして下さい：

配信サービス：Actwres girl’Z.net

YouTube チャンネル: youtube.com/@ACTWRES GIRL’Z

公式ホームページ: Actwres girl’Z.com

しかし、それだけではありません！このシリーズでは、今後のブログ記事を通してみなさんを発見の旅にお連れします。 このブログでは、アクトレスのメンバーそれぞれの魅力に迫ります！

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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)