She won't let him get away with it. Tetsu Akira, who has been awarded a challenge for the Future of Stardom Championship, is burning with the desire to "stop the HANAKO."

He will challenge the champion HANAKO at the Korakuen Hall event on February 28th. This will be his second challenge, the first being at the Korakuen Hall event on July 6th, 2025 (when Hinami was the champion). "This challenge? I'm happy. My first challenge for the Future title was also here. Everything is different (from last July). I'll show that in the ring," he said, already full of enthusiasm

The rivalry between HANAKO and Tetsu began during the series of "Mi Vida Loca vs. E neXus V" unit conflicts. At the February 7th Osaka event, Tetsu, representing Mi Vida Loca, defeated Rian, and E neXus V, the unit HANAKO belonged to, was disbanded

She revealed her impression of HANAKO, saying, "I love her eyes. I was especially drawn to the look in her eyes when she bit back at Maika during the unit competition. I thought, 'I want to steal the future from someone with eyes like that.'" This shows her respect for HANAKO, which is why her spirits are high

"HANAKO is the one who took the Future Championship from Hinami, who was the champion when I first challenged for it. I really wanted to challenge Hinami again and take the Future Championship from her. This match against HANAKO is a revenge match for my past self. And for the sake of my future, I will surpass you on February 28th," he declared, showing his strong determination

There's a reason why they have to take the belt now. The current champion will celebrate her 3rd anniversary since her debut on March 25th. The Future Championship is open to "those who have debuted within the last 3 years, or those under 20 years old," so if HANAKO successfully defends the title, there's a possibility that she'll have to relinquish it in about a month

Therefore, Tetsu boldly declared, "I won't let you. I won't let you have a 'glorious ending.' Sorry, but I won't let you be the champion in March. Instead, I'll be the new champion in March in your place."

If he succeeds in seizing the championship, he will undoubtedly stand out among those who debuted in 2025. However, his ironclad eyes are not focused on his contemporaries

"Honestly, I think I'm already several steps ahead of my contemporaries. I always feel competitive towards them. However, I have the experience and results I gained from tag leagues and unit competitions. I got beaten up more than any of my contemporaries, and that's how I became stronger. Unlike me, my contemporaries are all dazzlingly talented kids, but I've definitely been through the most tough battles among them."

She continued, "So, when I take the belt, I'm no longer focused on my contemporaries. I'm focused on becoming the ace of the young wrestlers in Stardom. As the ace of the young wrestlers, the Future belt is an indispensable piece. That's why I want the belt around my waist. I'm going to wear the glittering Future belt and make it my own. I'm going to make it sparkle!" With her iron fist, she opens the door to destiny

February 28, 2026 (Saturday) 'STARDOM in KORAKUEN 2026 Feb.' Korakuen Hall, Tokyo

[Confirmed Matchups]
*Matchups are subject to change.

◆Wonder of Stardom Championship Match
: Champion Konami vs. Challenger Hina

◆Future of Stardom Championship Match:
Champion HANAKO vs. Challenger Tetsu Akira

[Event Information]
STARDOM in KORAKUEN 2026 Feb.
Saturday, February 28, 2026,
Korakuen Hall, Tokyo
https://wwr-stardom.com/schedule/20260228_korakuen/