Maki Itoh has officially signed with World Wonder Ring Stardom, ending months of speculation about her next move. The internationally recognized “Fired Idol” was revealed as Stardom’s mystery signing at the promotion’s January 10 show at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, with President Taro Okada making the announcement in-ring.
“After 9 years of professional wrestling, this is the first time I’ll be doing it as a part of this organization,” Itoh stated following the announcement. “I will be joining STARDOM. Nice to meet you!”
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In a backstage interview, Itoh made her ambitions clear: “I am going to work hard in many matches from here on! I will win lots of belts! I will earn lots of money! I will become an even bigger star!”
From TJPW to Free Agency
Itoh’s contract with Tokyo Joshi Pro-Wrestling expired following the promotion’s August 23, 2025 show at Korakuen Hall, where she had been a cornerstone performer for nearly nine years. She announced her free agency shortly thereafter, thanking TJPW and confirming her intention to continue wrestling.
Stardom built anticipation through cryptic video vignettes that began airing during Christmas week, showing a mystery figure in front of several screens. As more details emerged, Itoh became the consensus pick among fans.
International Recognition
Itoh built considerable name recognition in the United States through multiple appearances for All Elite Wrestling between 2021 and 2023, with her last AEW match on June 14, 2023. She also became a regular fixture on the U.S. independent scene, particularly with Game Changer Wrestling, where she held the Extreme Championship for 316 days.
Her “Fired Idol” persona and strong social media presence helped establish her as one of the most recognizable Japanese women’s wrestlers among Western audiences, creating a fanbase that extends well beyond traditional joshi wrestling circles.
First Target: Natsupoi
When asked about potential opponents in Stardom, Itoh immediately named Natsupoi, a current member of the Cosmic Angels faction. “We’ve had a connection since our previous promotion, but she’s interesting,” Itoh said. “She probably hates Itoh. We can definitely have a great match.”
What This Means
For Itoh, Stardom offers a high-profile platform within Japan’s joshi scene and the promotional infrastructure of Bushiroad. For Stardom, Itoh represents a wrestler with an established international following who can drive merchandise sales and increase global interest during the promotion’s 15th anniversary celebration.
Itoh’s debut match is expected to be announced in the near future as she begins her first chapter as a signed wrestler in her nine-year professional wrestling career.
