STARDOM was founded in 2010 by former All Japan Women’s Pro-Wrestling (AJW) star Nanae Takahashi and businesswoman Rossy Ogawa. The promotion was created with the vision of providing a platform for female wrestlers to showcase their talents and to elevate the status of women’s wrestling in Japan. From its inception, STARDOM set out to differentiate itself with high-quality matches, compelling storylines, and a focus on athleticism and entertainment.
Over the years, STARDOM has been home to some of the most talented and charismatic wrestlers in the world. One of the early stars of the promotion was Io Shirai, who became a cornerstone of STARDOM with her incredible in-ring skills and captivating persona. Shirai’s matches against the likes of Mayu Iwatani and Kairi Hojo (now known as Kairi Sane in WWE) are still celebrated as some of the best in the promotion’s history. Mayu Iwatani, often referred to as the “Icon of STARDOM,” has been a central figure in the promotion. Her journey from a rookie to a multi-time champion has been a testament to her dedication and talent. Iwatani’s matches are known for their emotional depth and technical prowess, making her a fan favorite.
Another notable figure is Kagetsu, who brought a unique blend of charisma and intensity to STARDOM. As a leader of the Oedo Tai faction, Kagetsu played a pivotal role in some of the promotion’s most memorable storylines. Her retirement in 2020 marked the end of an era, but her influence continues to be felt.
STARDOM’s growth has been marked by several key milestones. In 2019, the promotion was acquired by Bushiroad, the parent company of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). This acquisition provided STARDOM with increased resources and visibility, allowing it to expand its reach both domestically and internationally. One of the significant changes post-acquisition was the introduction of the STARDOM World streaming service, which made the promotion’s events accessible to a global audience. This move not only increased STARDOM’s fanbase but also highlighted the high quality of joshi puroresu to wrestling enthusiasts worldwide.
STARDOM has played a crucial role in challenging and changing perceptions of women’s wrestling. In a country where women’s wrestling had often been overshadowed by its male counterpart, STARDOM has brought it to the forefront. The promotion’s emphasis on athleticism, storytelling, and character development has helped elevate the status of female wrestlers and has inspired a new generation of talent. Moreover, STARDOM has been a trailblazer in terms of representation. The promotion has showcased wrestlers from diverse backgrounds and has been inclusive of different wrestling styles and personas. This diversity has resonated with fans and has contributed to the promotion’s broad appeal.
STARDOM’s history is filled with unforgettable matches and events that have left a lasting impact on the wrestling world. One such event is the annual “Cinderella Tournament,” a single-elimination tournament where the winner earns a wish, typically a title shot. The tournament is known for its dramatic moments and has been a launching pad for many wrestlers’ careers. Another highlight is the “5★Star Grand Prix,” a round-robin tournament that determines the top wrestler in STARDOM. The tournament’s format allows for a variety of matchups and showcases the depth of talent within the promotion. The 5★Star Grand Prix has produced some of the most intense and high-stakes matches in STARDOM’s history.
STARDOM’s influence extends beyond Japan. The promotion has formed partnerships with various international wrestling organizations, allowing its wrestlers to compete on global stages. Wrestlers like Io Shirai, Kairi Sane, and Toni Storm have gone on to achieve success in major promotions like WWE, bringing attention to STARDOM and joshi puroresu. Additionally, STARDOM has hosted events outside of Japan, further solidifying its international presence. These events have introduced new audiences to the unique style and storytelling of STARDOM, contributing to the promotion’s growing global fanbase.
As STARDOM continues to grow, its future looks incredibly promising. The promotion’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and excellence ensures that it will remain a significant force in the wrestling industry. With new talents emerging and established stars continuing to shine, STARDOM is poised to reach even greater heights. The recent introduction of new championships, such as the SWA World Championship, has added fresh dynamics to the promotion. These titles provide additional opportunities for wrestlers to showcase their skills and for fans to engage with compelling storylines.
World Wonder Ring Stardom has revolutionized women’s professional wrestling, setting new standards for athleticism, storytelling, and representation. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global powerhouse, STARDOM’s journey is a testament to the passion and dedication of its wrestlers, management, and fans. As we look to the future, STARDOM’s influence on the wrestling world will undoubtedly continue to grow. The promotion’s ability to adapt, innovate, and inspire ensures that it will remain at the forefront of professional wrestling for years to come. Whether you are a long-time fan or new to the world of joshi puroresu, STARDOM offers a unique and exhilarating experience that is not to be missed.