One of STARDOM’s most iconic stars has found a new home—Mayu Iwatani is officially joining Marigold. The announcement was made during a press conference on Thursday morning, just days after her emotional exit from STARDOM.

Marigold confirmed that Iwatani will make her debut on May 4 at Korakuen Hall, where she’ll face Nanae Takahashi in singles competition. This will be her first match since dropping the IWGP Women’s Championship to Syuri at All-Star Grand Queendom 2025 on April 27.

At a press conference following that event, Iwatani stunned fans by revealing she had wrestled her final match for STARDOM. “I’m going to run away from home,” she told reporters. She added that while she was leaving the company she helped build, she hoped fans would continue to support her wherever she went next.

During today’s Marigold presser, Iwatani explained her decision further. She said she felt she had “done everything there was to do in STARDOM” and that it was time to pursue new challenges. Her primary goal in Marigold is to become a Grand Slam champion by capturing all of the promotion’s championships.

Advertising
Advertising

Iwatani also noted that Marigold’s working relationship with WWE was a small but significant factor in her decision to sign. With that door potentially open, she hinted at the opportunity to face former rivals again—specifically mentioning IYO SKY, Kairi Sane, and Giulia as possible dream opponents down the line.

Mayu Iwatani’s resume speaks for itself. Since joining STARDOM in its inaugural year in 2011, she’s captured nearly every major title in the company:

  • Two-time World of Stardom Champion
  • Two-time Wonder of Stardom Champion
  • Five-time Artist of Stardom Champion
  • One-time Goddess of Stardom Champion
  • One-time High Speed Champion
  • One-time IWGP Women’s Champion

Her move to Marigold marks a major turning point in her legendary career and adds another high-profile name to the growing roster of the new promotion.

How do you feel about Mayu Iwatani signing with Marigold? Are you hoping for WWE crossover matches? Drop your thoughts in the comments.

Felix Upton has over 15 years of experience in media and wrestling journalism. His work at Ringside News blends speed, accuracy, and industry insight.

Disqus Comments Loading...