Bushiroad may come to regret firing Rossy Ogawa from World Wonder Ring STARDOM as some of its top talent are expected to leave very soon.
Ogawa, the founder of STARDOM, was fired last month in a shocking and unexpected move. Bushiroad is the parent company of both STARDOM and NJPW and in their statement, apologized to fans for any concerns over STARDOM’s future. A series of tweets from Tony Khan suggested that he was firmly on STARDOM’s side.
— Tony Khan (@TonyKhan) February 5, 2024
Champions Say Goodbye
In Bushiroad’s statement announcing Ogawa’s exit, it was reported that he had been poaching talent. While this has not been proven, it appears talent are eager to work with him, even if it means leaving STARDOM behind.
Some of STARDOM’s top wrestlers are set to leave the promotion in the wake of Ogawa’s exit, Tokyo Sports reports. Utami Hayashishita, MIRAI, Mai Sakurai, and Yuzuki all have contracts set to expire at the end of March and it is believed they’ll be leaving.
Hayashishita is a reigning Goddess of STARDOM Champion, a title she has held three times and currently holds alongside Saya Kamitani. She is a former World of STARDOM champion as well.
Tokyo Sports reports she has been speaking of a fresh environment, and wanting to start from scratch. MIRAI is a current Artist of STARDOM Champion alongside Akari and Ami Sourei.
What’s to Come?
It has been reported that the wrestlers are expected to join a new promotion that is to be created by Ogawa. At this time, Ogawa has not publicly confirmed plans for a new promotion.
Another Huge Arrival?
Another name who recently left Bushiroad is Giulia, who is expected to join WWE in the future. Before then though, it is believed she will join Ogawa’s new promotion and help the company get off the ground. Giulia recently lost the NJPW Strong Women’s title, signifying her split from Bushiroad.
Who Has Replaced Ogawa?
Taro Okada and Oyama, the Bushiroad Fight merchandise manager, will immediately take over as the bookers for STARDOM. Neither has any previous experience as bookers, though Okada was part of a pro wrestling club that held matches during his college days.
