TJPW - Tokyo Princess Cup (7/29/2023)

4. Tokyo Princess Cup - Quarter-Finals: Arisu Endo vs. Yuki Arai

Arisu Endo's Camel Clutch meets its match as Yuki Arai counters with the Sasori-gatame! Generational classmates putting on a captivating match, full of youthful vigor and competitive spirit. It was like a Young Lion undercard bout, with its tightly packed pace that never let up and boundless potential displayed. This could evolve into a legendary match-up in the future. ****

5. Tokyo Princess Cup - Quarter-Finals: Yuki Kamifuku vs. Miu Watanabe

Has Miu Watanabe ever engaged in such a heated and hard-hitting encounter before? Yuki Kamifuku managed to draw out a rare angry side of Miu, sparking a unique and compelling match. The intensity reached its peak during the finishing stretch, where they nailed each other with strikes and chops at close range. ****

7. Tokyo Princess Cup - Quarter-Finals: Rika Tatsumi vs. Shoko Nakajima

Classic display of TJPW veterans showcasing their expertise. The match began with a careful defensive approach, but soon escalated into a dynamic back-and-forth affair that showcased the familiarity Rika Tatsumi and Shoko Nakajima have developed over the years. The mix of athletic and emotional wrestling added an intriguing dimension, though in a tournament main event I would have preferred a purely athletic contest without the emotional interludes. Rika fortunately toned down some of the crazy and extraneous elements seen in her recent title matches, allowing for a more focused performance. ***1/2