STARDOM Cinderella Tournament 2026: A Guide to the Prestigious Joshi Puroresu Competition
The STARDOM Cinderella Tournament 2026, a cornerstone event in the world of joshi puroresu (Japanese women’s professional wrestling), is set to unfold throughout March. This annual single-elimination tournament offers the winner a coveted “wish,” typically a championship match of their choosing. With 32 participants vying for glory, the 2026 edition promises intense competition and a glimpse into the future of STARDOM.
Tournament Schedule and Key Dates
- March 6th & 7th: First Round Matches – Nagoya
- March 8th: Second Round – Korakuen Hall, Tokyo
- March 11th: Quarterfinals – Korakuen Hall, Tokyo
- March 15th: Semifinals & Finals – Yokohama Budokan
The 32 Competitors
STARDOM has revealed a diverse roster of 32 wrestlers competing in this year’s tournament, blending established stars with emerging talent. The participants include:
- Hanan
- Saya Iida
- Momo Kohgo
- Yuria Hime
- Bea Priestley
- Natsupoi
- Saori Anou
- Yuna Mizumori
- Sayaka Kurara
- Aya Sakura
- Ami Sohrei
- Saki Kashima
- Hina
- Lady C
- Tomoka Inaba
- Ranna Yagami
- Kiyoka Kotatsu
- Miyu Amasaki
- Rina Yamashita
- Akira Kurogane
- Rina
- Fukigen Death
- Azusa Inaba
- Xena
- HANAKO
- Waka Tsukiyama
- Rian
- Maki Itoh
- Anne Kanaya
- Kikyo Furusawa
- Fuwa-chan Tabata (CMLL)
A Tournament Steeped in History
The STARDOM Cinderella Tournament was first held in 2015, with Mayu Iwatani emerging as the inaugural champion. Last year’s winner, Sayaka Kurara, challenged Saya Kamitani for the World of STARDOM Championship in May 2025, though ultimately was unsuccessful.
The Significance of the “Wish”
The ultimate prize for winning the Cinderella Tournament is a “wish,” which is almost always used to secure a championship match. This provides a significant opportunity for the victor to contend for one of STARDOM’s prestigious titles, potentially launching them into the upper echelons of joshi puroresu. The tournament’s culmination at Yokohama Budokan, a venue with a rich wrestling history, further elevates the stakes.
Growing Internationalization of STARDOM
The inclusion of wrestlers like Fuwa-chan Tabata, representing CMLL (Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre), highlights a growing trend of international collaboration within STARDOM. This cross-promotion expands the promotion’s global reach and acknowledges the interconnected nature of professional wrestling worldwide.