Maika Discusses Future Plans Following EXV Disbanding at STARDOM Supreme Fight

By Noah Leatherland

At STARDOM Supreme Fight, E neXus V lost their battle to Mi Vida Loca and Maika proclaimed that the faction was disbanding. Maika has since shared her thoughts on the decision and what the future may bring.

When Maika dissolved EXV, she told her former stablemates ‘Now you can spread your wings freely!’ As reported on by Tokyo Sports, Maika explained what had led her to making such a bold move:

I felt I’d grown when HANAKO bared her fangs at me. Then, after being slapped by Rian, my resolve hardened. Watching each member’s match in that elimination bout that day turned that feeling into certainty. I want everyone to see and experience more of the world. To do that, becoming free is the best path.

EXV had originally been formed with Mina Shirakawa by Maika’s side. Maika revealed that she had discussed dissolving EXV with Shirakawa ahead of time:

Mina always kept an eye on EXV, even checking our backstage comments. She was such a caring person, so I’ve been trying to pour that same affection into everyone on her behalf. When we discussed the unit, Mina said, “You’ve worked so hard to get this far,” and that made me really happy.

As for what’s next for Maika in STARDOM, she has her eyes set on singles gold, stating:

Mina went to America to fulfil her dream, and I want to move freely too. The World title is a given, but I’m also keen on Syuri’s STRONG Women’s Championship. STRONG is me, and I’ve always wanted to keep challenging myself overseas.

STARDOM have also shared more of Maika’s comments on these changes in an interview on their website. In it, she reflected on the reaction to EXV’s ending, and her hopes for the other members:

There were mixed reactions, but I feel the response has been tremendous… That’s precisely why I hope everyone will look forward to the future of the members, including myself.

…

I hope they gain experiences and learn things that are only possible outside a unit, run wild freely, and grow stronger… I’ll be doing my own thing freely too. I have no intention of joining a unit… I reckon I can make it work reasonably well with anyone I team up with.

There was also concern from fans over Maika’s physical condition, as she appeared in her post-match interview at STARDOM Supreme Fight in a neck brace. However, she has assured fans that she is alright after being examined by doctors:

The doctors told me I don’t need to sit the next match out… I feel I’m in a condition to compete, so I don’t plan to rest.

Maika also reaffirmed just how important the World of Stardom title is to her, and her desire to challenge the champion Saya Kamitani once more:

Of course, I want to have a proper match with Kamitani now. There were too many people involved in my return match. It’s an important belt packed with memories. While I have my sights set on various belts, I consider the red belt to be special.

(Quotes translated via DeepL)