Hikari Noa vs. Yuki Arai (Tokyo Joshi Pro, 7/18/2022)

Tokyo Joshi Pro - Tokyo Princess Cup (7/18/2022)

Tokyo Princess Cup 2022 First Round: Hikari Noa vs. Yuki Arai

Although Hikari had the advantage in experience, the size difference and momentum of Arai made it feel like an uphill battle. Hikari gave her most cohesive performance in a long time, focusing on attacks aimed at the leg and sharp, timely kicks. Those slithering heel hook transitions of hers were great. Arai was good enough, selling and countering solidly and showing her killer instinct with a contorting Sasori-Gatame and an axe kick as Hikari was caught on the rope. The finishing stretch was well executed and provided ample drama. ***1/2