Io Shirai Awaits Meiko Satomura WrestleMania Challenge

NXT Women’s Champion, Io Shirai, has orated her wish to step into the ring with fellow Japanese marvel and NXT UK Superstar, Meiko Satomura at WrestleMania 37.

Since NXT TakeOver: In Your House in June 2020, ‘The Genius of the Sky’ has reigned as NXT Women’s Champion when she defeated Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair in a Triple Threat Match. Since then, her challengers have been thick and fast with the likes Rhea Ripley, Tegan Nox, Dakota Kai and Candice LeRae stepping up to the mark but failing to topple the mighty champion.

Welcoming all challengers, Shirai has her sights set on arguably the greatest female Japanese performer in the history of the industry, Meiko Satomura, and sat down with Sports Illustrated to talk about how much she would like to put her gold on the line against her fellow countrywoman:

“No question about it. WrestleMania is the grandest stage we have in this business and I have always wanted to compete under that spotlight. A match with Meiko Satomura is another dream match for me. Fortunately she has joined NXT UK, making it a real possibility now. I am so excited.”

Meiko Satomura made her WWE debut with NXT UK on the February 11 edition of the black and red brand in a convincing victory over Isla Dawn. Following the bout, she stared down NXT UK Women’s Champion, Kay Lee Ray, who watched from afar as the pair prepare to meet for the gold in the not too distant future.

Meanwhile, Io Shirai has her own immediate problems when she defends her strap against the combined threat of Mercedes Martinez and former NXT UK Women’s Champion, Toni Storm, at NXT TakeOver: Vengeance Day on February 14.

Credit for the interview and transcription: Sports Illustrated