Riho made a surprise appearance at today’s show at Korakuen Hall and announced she will wrestle for STARDOM starting at their upcoming event in August.

Riho recently made a name for herself in the US due to her appearances with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). She has been a standout with the new promotion, earning impressive wins at Double or Nothing and Fyter Fest.

The Tokyo native is only 22 years old, but she’s already a 13-year veteran in the industry. Riho was trained by former Pro Wrestling: EVE Champion, Emi Sakura. She debuted at Sakura’s promotion, Ice Ribbon, in May of 2006.

Riho enjoyed her most success with the company over the next six years, becoming its first Triple Crown Champion in 2010. She left Ice Ribbon in September of 2012 to join Emi Sakura at her Thailand-based promotion, Gatoh Move Pro Wrestling.

This summer she signed a five-show deal with AEW and bid farewell to Gatoh Move Pro. It’s unclear if she will sign an extension with AEW after she finishes up her contract or if she plans to freelance with STARDOM.

Still, this is a great acquisition. Riho seems like a star in the making. With her growing fame outside of Japan, she could be a huge asset for STARDOM.

Riho will return to Korakuen Hall next month on Saturday, Aug. 10. Be sure to check back with Bell to Belles for more women’s wrestling news.