The highly anticipated signing by Stardom has generated a lot of buzz, especially because it involves a performer with strong ties to both AEW and the indie wrestling scene. But here’s where it gets controversial... this debut might reshape perceptions about what kind of talent companies like Stardom are willing to bring in. And this is the part most people miss: the new signing isn’t just a random name but a strategically intriguing choice that could challenge traditional views on wrestler identity and crossover appeal.
Sean Rueter, a longtime observer of professional wrestling who’s been analyzing the scene since at least the era of WrestleMania I, has been chronicling his thoughts on platforms like SBNation and Cageside Seats since roughly WrestleMania 28. His insights are well-respected in the community for their depth and understanding.
Recently, Stardom, the Japanese women’s wrestling promotion renowned for its high-quality matches and talented roster, has been teasing a major new arrival in their shows. The hints led many fans to speculate about a few potential athletes, including Dakota Kai—an energetic gamer and streamer who has been a free agent since last year and previously wrestled in Stardom as Evie before signing with WWE. Others considered Mercedes Martinez, especially given her recent heel turn and the possibility she might adopt her old RETRIBUTION persona in Japan.
However, a more revealing detail in the teasers involved someone slamming energy drinks—clues that seemed to point to a different wrestler entirely. Fans and insiders quickly identified this as Maki Itoh, a well-known figure with a colorful career and a history of blending the worlds of idol culture and professional wrestling. Today, January 10, Stardom confirmed this by officially unveiling Itoh in a ceremony at Korakuen Hall.
In a heartfelt moment captured in the ring alongside Stardom president Taro Okada, Itoh signed her contract and donned her new tracksuit, sharing her excitement: 'After nine years of professional wrestling, this is my first time joining a promotion like this. I’m thrilled to be part of Stardom. Nice to meet everyone!'
But who is Maki Itoh? Before stepping into the wrestling ring, she was part of LinQ, a Japanese idol group often compared to girl groups popular in the West—though those groups tend to have highly manufactured images, especially prevalent in Japan and South Korea. Itoh left the group in 2017 and developed her wrestling persona based on her idol background. Her character, known as the 'Cutest in the World' who curses like a sailor, quickly captured fans’ hearts online. In her previous tenure with Tokyo Joshi Pro-Wrestling (TJPW), she secured the International Princess title twice and also earned Tokyo Joshi’s Tag Team championships once with Miyu Yamashita.
Her debut match for Stardom is scheduled for tomorrow at Korakuen Hall, where she will team up with Saori Anou to face Aya Sakura and Sayaka Kurara. The anticipation among fans is fierce. Are you excited to see how this rebellious idol-turned-wrestler shakes up the Stardom roster? Or do you think this kind of crossover dilutes the purity of traditional joshi wrestling? Drop your thoughts below—this signing might just ignite a new era in women’s professional wrestling, or spark heated debates about authenticity and entertainment in the sport.
