Stardom and MLW announce ‘strategic partnership’
Stardom and MLW have announced a partnership.
The news was announced at Stardom’s show at Korakuen Hall on Sunday, May 17. Stardom later released a statement noting that the partnership between the two companies will be based on talent exchanges and creative collaboration.
Stardom wrote, “This partnership will emphasize talent exchanges, creative collaboration, and platforming athletes on new stages in Japan and America!”
According to MLW’s website, more details on the alliance will be revealed in the coming weeks.
MLW’s Court Bauer and Stardom’s Taro Okada comment on partnership
An MLW press release on Sunday included comments from MLW CEO Court Bauer and Stardom CEO Taro Okada.
“STARDOM has built a roster and presentation that set the standard for excellence in women’s wrestling,” said MLW CEO and Owner Court Bauer. “I have tremendous respect and admiration for the level of competition and the athletes who define STARDOM. We’re grateful to Mr. Okada and everyone at World Wonder Ring STARDOM for their partnership. This alliance is about creating fresh matchups, new experiences, and meaningful opportunities for athletes and fans alike.”
Taro Okada, CEO of STARDOM, commented, “MLW has established a firm position in the United States, one of the most developed markets in the professional wrestling business. In addition, we continue to accelerate global development through partnerships with organizations with history and tradition such as New Japan Pro Wrestling and CMLL.
Through cooperation with MLW, STARDOM will further convey the charm of women’s professional wrestling culture from Japan to the United States as well as to various regions where MLW’s broadcasting and distribution networks are expanding.
In addition, we intend to promote the improvement of the competition and further development on the world-class stage of both organizations by strengthening player exchanges and creating new opportunities to participate in the competition.
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to MLW and President Court Bauer for their great efforts in making this partnership possible.“
Shotzi Blackheart and Lady Frost comment on MLW x Stardom announcement
Two members of the MLW roster also commented on the announcement.
MLW’s Shotzi Blackheart responded to Stardom’s post announcing the news, writing, “Oh hello new friends!” and “Ready to go wild?”
Lady Frost wrote, “Shall I go hunting in Japan? 😏 🩸”
Ian Carey is a writer from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, whose work has been featured in NOW Magazine, The Huffington Post, and more. A lifelong wrestling aficionado born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, he has covered the industry for a decade and a half. He joined the f4wonline.com team in 2019.