Natsuko Tora Suffers Torn ACL
The highly anticipated main event of Stardom’s Yokohama Dream Cinderella 2021 in Summer between World of Stardom champion Utami Hayashishita and Natsuko Tora came to a shocking end.
Natsuko and Utami were only a little over 10 minutes into the match before everything came crashing down for Natsuko, who was having the run of her career in 2021 and had quickly become the biggest villain in the company.
Typical of an Oedo Tai match, things got ugly and spilt to the outside. Natsuko sent Utami through a table and while Utami was trying to get back to her feet, Natsuko went in for a simple double foot stomp from the apron and unfortunately landed awkwardly and injured her knee, causing the match to finish due to doctor stoppage.
Fans never want to see a wrestler hurt, but seeing both young women visibly distressed from what just happened made for an awful sight. The tough leader of Stardom’s most feared unit in tears being helped by her teammates and the champion left confused in the ring to sadly close out what was otherwise an incredible show.
On the mic, Natsuko vowed to take the title away from Utami once she’s fully healed and demanded to be the number one contender upon her return.
Stardom later announced that Natsuko suffered a torn ACL in her left knee and will be out for the foreseeable future. An injury like this could take her out of action for upwards of six months, so it’s unlikely that fans will see Natsuko return this year.
Following last night's injury, today Natsuko Tora was diagnosed with a torn ACL to her left knee.
We apologize for any upcoming card changes.
Your heartfelt words and warm wishes to Natsuko are appreciated, and thank you for your continued support of Stardom. pic.twitter.com/Sn9qgAu0O6
— We Are Stardom (@we_are_stardom) July 5, 2021
Stardom has been plagued with injuries this year, whether that’s major such as Jungle Kyona or Natsuko Tora, or minor such as Himeka and Natsupoi and with their annual 5 Star Tournament coming up which is known for causing an injury or two in the past due to how heavy the schedule is, this new schedule which is the longest one they’ve ever done could dampen more plans.
Everyone here at Inside the Ropes wishes Natsuko a speedy recovery.