3. Blue Stars: Mina Shirawaka vs. Saori Anou
A brilliant classical match between two gorgeous visual wrestlers. Targeted knee attacks from each side, with leg locks as the axis. What impressed me most was that contrary to their flashy appearances, Mina Shirakawa and Saori Anou fought with simple and effective techniques. There was a sharpness and attention to detail. Eventually building towards a crescendo of high-impact moves at the end. It was a stunning display of wrestling craftsmanship. ****1/4
7. Red Stars: Tam Nakano vs. Natsupoi
Even though Tam Nakano and Natsupoi are now stablemates and getting along well together, this had an unflinching intensity. Even in the early stages, their offense seemed to carry something extra behind it. It gave me "Tsuruta x Tenryu" vibes in terms of aura. While a few hiccups occurred during the finishing stretch, a surprising ending tied it all together. ****
8. ★5 STAR GP 2023 Finals: Suzu Suzuki vs. Maika
This was a great main event but not in the class of the finals of the past 2 years. I think the excitement and sense of anticipation from the audience amplified a lot of the action, which had dramatic near-falls but not many surprises in the way of innovation. Suzu Suzuki's secret technique, the Sky Twister Press, made for an enthralling finish. ****
