Stardom’s Artist of Stardom Tournament: A Three-Day Battle for Glory
Tokyo, Japan — From January 11th to January 13th, Stardom fans were treated to three unforgettable days of action as the Artist of Stardom Championship tournament unfolded. The multi-day event highlighted faction rivalries, intense battles, and emotional storylines, culminating in a championship clash between reigning titleholders Tam Nakano, Natsupoi, and Saori Anou and their Cosmic Angels stablemates, Yuna Mizumori, Aya Sakura, and Sayaka Kurara (Sakura Ramon).
Day 1: The First Round Begins
The tournament kicked off with four teams vying for a chance to challenge the champions at Korakuen Hall. Each match demonstrated Stardom’s unmatched roster depth and thrilling in-ring storytelling.
Match 1: STARS vs. Sakura Ramon
The first round saw Yuna Mizumori, Aya Sakura, and Sayaka Kurara (collectively Sakura Ramon) take on Hazuki, Saya Iida, and Momo Kogo of STARS. Mizumori’s power, Sakura’s precision strikes, and Kura’s unrelenting energy proved too much for STARS, who fell after a well-coordinated triple attack. The victory sent Sakura Ramon to the finals, cementing their status as a serious threat.
Match 2: God’s Eye vs. H.A.T.E
The second match pitted Hina, Lady C, and Rana Yagami of God’s Eye against the chaotic trio of Natsuko Tora, Rina, and Fukigen Death from H.A.T.E. Rina’s sharp wit and unorthodox offense, combined with Natsuko’s raw power, overwhelmed God’s Eye. Rina’s Hydrangea submission sealed the win, propelling H.A.T.E to the finals.
Day 2: The Tournament Finals
Sakura Ramon vs. H.A.T.E
The finals were a chaotic, high-energy contest. Early dominance by H.A.T.E kept Sakura Ramon on the defensive, with Natsuko and Rina delivering devastating double-team maneuvers. However, Mizumori’s resilience, Sakura’s pinpoint offense, and Kurara’s relentless spirit turned the tide. In a hard-fought finale, Aya Sakura pinned Rina with a decisive high kick, securing their place in the championship match.
Day 3: Contract Signing Sets the Stage
Before the championship match, a public contract signing added another layer of drama. Yuna Mizumori passionately declared Sakura Ramon’s intent to overthrow the reigning champions, framing the match as a generational shift within the Cosmic Angels.
Yuna Mizumori:
“This is the day the new generation takes over. Tamu-san, Poi-san, and Saori-san, if you underestimate us, you will suffer. This match will prove why we belong at the top.”
Tam Nakano:
“Sakura Ramon, if you’re up for it, I’ll take you on. Go ahead and win with those hands!”
The signing ceremony showcased the mutual respect and pride shared by the Cosmic Angels while building tension for the upcoming clash.
Day 3: Championship Match – Cosmic Angels Collide
The highly anticipated main event saw reigning champions Tam Nakano, Natsupoi, and Saori Anou defend their titles against Sakura Ramon. The match was an emotional rollercoaster, pitting mentor and mentee against one another in a display of skill, determination, and heart.
Key Moments:
- Mizumori’s Power: Mizumori’s shoulder tackles and lariats tested the champions’ resilience, giving Sakura Ramon early momentum.
- Aya Sakura’s Precision: Sakura delivered knee strikes and spinning kicks, creating key opportunities for her team.
- Sayaka Kurara’s Grit: Kurara’s Tokimeki Cutter nearly secured the win, but the champions’ experience proved decisive.
In the end, Tam Nakano’s Violet Screwdriver on Kurara secured the victory after 15 minutes of intense action. The champions retained their titles, but the challengers left the ring with their heads held high.
Post-Match Reflections
Tam Nakano:
“Cosmic Angels isn’t just about this trio. Mizumori, Sakura, and Kurara were incredible tonight. They’ve grown so much and proved why they’re a vital part of this faction.”
Yuna Mizumori:
“This isn’t the end. We’ll come back stronger. Today was just the beginning of our rise.”
Looking Ahead
The three-day tournament highlighted Stardom’s ability to combine storytelling with in-ring excellence. While Nakano’s team retained their titles, Sakura Ramon established themselves as future contenders, ensuring the Cosmic Angels’ legacy continues to evolve.
With the bonds tested and rivalries sparked during this tournament, Stardom fans can expect even greater excitement in the months to come. The Artist of Stardom Championship remains in capable hands, but the fire lit by Sakura Ramon’s performance will undoubtedly burn brighter as they chase their next opportunity.
