Exclusive: “The Fight”; an interview with Stardom’s AZM – Covering Neo Genesis, her rivalry with SLK, and much more
The following interview is conducted by Bodyslam correspondent Jeff Brown.
Simultaneously, a bright burst of energy and a veteran presence, AZM has over a decade of experience, and she’s 22 years old. Versatile as she is, capable of high-speed bouts (which she has made a signature), comedy matches that show her mischievous side, near-fall-laden tag affairs, and the big main events that Stardom has built a reputation around. Having seen and been in the ring with a variable who’s who of Joshi the last decade, AZM has seen many eras as her company continually evolves.
After the disbanding of Queens Quest, she went a fairly new route with neon hues and cool young energy, the type that cannot be manufactured or created by a committee. Neo Genesis is clicking because the hip young women with an ear to the ground are bringing their interests to a ring. It’s a powerful set of cards to be played in 2025, the Joshi equivalent of 1997 WWF, where DX and others on the roster who knew “it” in a way that reflects pop culture and fashion trends. The crotch chop is replaced with the gal pose (or Gyaru peace pose), but the spark is there regardless. 2024 was the start of something special as AZM traveled the world and pinged new radars, and as 2025 is about to begin, AZM will face Mayu Iwatani for the IWGP Joshi Championship at Wrestle Kingdom. Ahead of that big match, AZM took time to discuss with Body Slam Stardom and its new direction, her goals, and more.
Who came up with the name Neo Genesis, and what does the name mean to you?
We all had a meeting together!! At first, there was a different name, but no one was satisfied with it, so we rethought it. The meaning, you might consider that we want to do many new things.
How is Neo Genesis different from other factions?
We are youthful, and you can see we’re fresh off the press! We’re teammates, but also rivals, so we can push each other to improve.
Your ring gear is very futuristic with circuit board designs and even lights; what influenced that look?
Since my debut, my colors are an imaginative blend of green and purple.
People started saying it reminded them of Evangelion, so it took on a futuristic vibe!
Having experienced many different eras, how is STARDOM different now compared to when you first started?
I used to have the image of “The Fight” a certain style that really embodies STARDOM. I loved that, too! But now, while that fighting style is still here, I think the range has expanded to include many different kinds of battles. It might be easier to understand if you think of it as having various heroes!
What surprised you most when traveling?
I grew up in Tokyo, but when I go to rural areas, it’s normal to see animals on the roads and such. In the UK, I was surprised to see so many squirrels in the parks.
Who is your biggest rival and why?
Starlight Kid. I’ve been fighting for so long, and people have always compared me to Kid. Each time, I’ve felt frustrated, but it’s because of that frustration that I’ve been able to level up. Now we’re teammates, but being even closer has brought new frustrations from a different perspective. Whether as an enemy or a teammate, it’s rare to meet someone you genuinely want to surpass.
How would you describe STARDOM to a new fan? What defines or makes STARDOM special?
Among women’s pro wrestling, STARDOM has many units with a lot of teamwork worth paying attention to.
What does challenging Mayu Iwatani at Wrestle Kingdom mean to you?
I thought that only Mayu Iwatani and I could showcase STARDOM at Wrestle Kingdom. I believe I’ve watched Mayu Iwatani lead Stardom more closely than anyone else. I want to be Mayu Iwatani’s rival. To achieve that, I will face her in the Tokyo Dome, where she’s always dreamed of having a title match, and I will defeat her in the end to earn her recognition
What are your goals for yourself and for STARDOM in 2025?
I will become a singles champion, lead STARDOM, and become the new icon! I also want to bring STARDOM to the Tokyo Dome, have our own show in front of a big audience.
Thanks so much to AZM for taking the time to answer our questions. Thank you to Stardom for giving us the opportunity.
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