IWGP Women’s Champion Syuri vs. Challenger Natsupoi Made Official For July 18th

By: Lewis Carlan

The IWGP Women’s Champion Syuri has her fifth defense of her second reign officially confirmed. It was announced today that Syuri will put her championship on the line against Natsupoi on July 19th at the opening round of the STARDOM 5★STAR GP 2026.

The championship match materialized when Natsupoi confronted Syuri on June 20th at “STARDOM THE CONVERSION 2026” following Syuri’s victory over Rina Yamashita for her fourth successful defense.

In front of the over 2,800 fans in attendance at Yoyogi National Stadium Gymnasium #2, Natsupoi said to Syuri “I’m cute, I have wonderful friends, and I have a cool husband. The only thing missing is that belt!” and then proceeded to challenge her for the coveted IWGP Women’s Championship. Syuri quickly accepted the challenge and the bout is now official.

Natsupoi took to X and issued the following comment about her upcoming championship challenge:

I’m here to take on the biggest challenge of this century. It’s a dream I’ve kept deep in my heart all this time. Now that I’ve taken the first step, I’m fully prepared. Alright, let’s kick off a sizzling summer! (Translated via Deepl.com)

Syuri, who is in her second reign, has held the IWGP Women’s Title since Oct. 13 2025 when she defeated Sareee for the belt at NJPW King Of Pro-Wrestling 2025. This will be the first time Natsupoi challenges for the IWGP Women’s Championship.