Maika Wants the NJPW STRONG Women’s Title If She Wins the STARDOM 5★STAR GP

By: Noah Leatherland

Maika has reached the semi-finals of the STARDOM 5★STAR GP, set for August 23rd in the Ryogoku Kokugikan. While the tournament winner usually goes on to challenge for the World of Stardom Championship, Maika has another prize in her sights.

Speaking to Tokyo Sports, Maika shared that she wants a more internationally-focused title:

I’ll just say this much: the belt I’m aiming for isn’t the red one. The two belts I want to challenge for are ones that will let me shine on the world stage… well, you can probably guess—the IWGP or the STRONG title.

The IWGP Women’s Championship is currently held by fellow STARDOM star, Syuri. Meanwhile, the STRONG title, which Tokyo Sports notes Maika shows more interest in, is held by All Elite Wrestling’s Alex Windsor. Windsor won the purple belt from Syuri back in March at Pro Wrestling EVE’s Wrestle Queendom event. Since then, she has only defended it once, beating Saya Iida at STARDOM American Dream in April.

Maika has taken particular issue with Windsor’s reign:

I believe the red belt shines brighter when held within Japan… Right now, people are asking, ‘Who holds the STRONG title?’ Don’t you think the belt would be happier with me holding it than with someone who’s been neglecting it so carelessly?

In discussing her desire for the STRONG title, Maika referenced Saya Kamitani raising STARDOM’s profile during her dominant run on top. Seeing Kamitani’s success has spurred Maika on:

Since I couldn’t generate that kind of momentum myself, I want to reach out to the world and make STARDOM go viral.

(Quotes translated via DeepL)