Get ready to have your wrestling world rocked! Stardom’s mysterious new signing has finally been revealed, and it’s none other than the wildly popular Maki Itoh—a fan-favorite known for her explosive personality and indie wrestling roots. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this the game-changing move Stardom needs, or just a flashy grab for attention? Let’s dive in.
For weeks, the joshi (Japanese women’s wrestling) powerhouse Stardom has been teasing a major signing, leaving fans buzzing with speculation. Many guessed it might be Dakota Kai, the former WWE star turned free agent, who once wrestled for Stardom as Evie. Others, like Sean Rueter of Cageside Seats, jokingly theorized it could be Mercedes Martinez bringing her RETRIBUTION gimmick to Japan. But longer teasers hinted at someone with a penchant for energy drinks and a foul-mouthed reputation—enter Maki Itoh, the self-proclaimed 'Cutest in the World.'
Today (January 10), Stardom confirmed the rumors during their Korakuen Hall show, introducing Itoh alongside president Taro Okada. With her signature track suit and a freshly signed contract, Itoh declared, 'After nine years in wrestling, this is my first time joining an organization like Stardom. Nice to meet you!' Her excitement was palpable, but the real question is: How will her bold, unfiltered persona fit into Stardom’s roster?
Before wrestling, Itoh was part of LinQ, a Japanese idol group known for their meticulously crafted images. After being let go in 2017, she channeled that experience into her wrestling gimmick, blending sweetness with a sailor’s mouth. This unique character quickly made her a fan-favorite, especially online. In her home promotion, Tokyo Joshi Pro-Wrestling (TJPW), she’s a two-time International Princess Champion and a former Tag Team Champion alongside Miyu Yamashita.
Itoh’s AEW run from 2021 to 2023 was a rollercoaster, with her on-again, off-again appearances sparking both love and debate. Now, as she steps into Stardom—a promotion closely tied to New Japan Pro-Wrestling—fans are split. Is Itoh’s signing a bold move to diversify Stardom’s style, or a risky bet on a personality that might not mesh with their traditional ethos? And this is the part most people miss: Stardom’s roster is already packed with talent, so where does Itoh fit in?
Her debut match is tomorrow at Korakuen Hall, teaming with Saori Anou against Aya Sakura & Sayaka Kurara. Will she bring her signature chaos, or play it safe in her new home? One thing’s for sure: Maki Itoh doesn’t do boring. So, are you *****ing excited? Let us know in the comments—do you think Itoh’s Stardom run will be a slam dunk or a controversial misstep?
