The relationship between New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Stardom continues to grow as a recently-crowned champion from the former was challenged by a top star from the latter.
At a recent show, Stardom’s GIULIA grabbed a microphone and started cutting a promo. She then set her sights on Willow Nightingale and challenged for the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship.
Giulia’s exact words were as follows, per Stardom’s official Instagram page:
“NJPW Strong has a show. I wanted to challenge myself. I want to go overseas. So here I declare. New Japan! Bring Giulia to the STRONG show! Call Willow Nightingale there!”
The Strong Women’s Championship is one of thirteen titles defended under the larger NJPW umbrella. It’s the official women’s title of Strong, which is NJPW’s sister company in the United States.
Stardom’s Giulia challenges Willow Nightingale for the Strong Women’s Championship
Stardom was a completely independent promotion until 2019 when it was bought by Bushiroad, which is NJPW’s parent company as well. Since then, the two companies have worked together many times in crosspromotional events.
Additionally, many women’s wrestlers active elsewhere have spent time wrestling in Stardom. These include Bea Priestley, Io Shirai (now known as IYO SKY), Chelsea Green, Ruby Soho, Mercedes Martinez, Zelina Vega, and Mercedes Martinez.
But before GIULIA can get her hands on the title, she will have to wait as Willow Nightingale will challenge Toni Storm for the AEW Women’s Championship later tonight at Forbidden Door in Toronto.
Giulia is one of Stardom’s top active stars and is the promotion’s current tag team champion alongside a wrestler named Thekla.