Rossy Ogawa, the co-founder, public figurehead and executive producer behind Stardom has been released by the company.

Stardom published a statement explaining why he was terminated.

“We would like to inform you that we have come to know that he has poached many Stardom players and staff members, and we have decided to cancel this contract,” they said.

Although nothing has been confirmed publicly word is that Stardom believes that Ogawa may have been setting up plans to launch a rival promotion. Bushiroad, the owner of NJPW, bought Stardom in 2019.

The company also posted a statement on X:

 

Ogawa himself posted a response on X. In it he says:

“Suddenly, after yesterday’s event I was notified that my contract would be terminated. The truth of the matter may be told someday. I’m worried about the talent right now. Thank you for supporting Stardom for the past 13 years. From now on, it will be Stardom created by Bushiroad.”

Wrestlers Fuka Kakimoto and Nanae Takahashi formed and launched Stardom with Ogawa in 2010 and has since grown to be the most successful all-women’s wrestling promotion in the world. Many of its stars such as Asuka, Iyo Sky, Shayna Baszler, Toni Storm, Mariah May, Kairi Sane and others have honed their craft in Stardom before moving on to the WWE, AEW, etc.

Ogawa was the face of the company appearing in on-air angles and presided over the championship matches. He was affectionately known as just “Rossy” by fans and talent alike.

Fans posted their best wishes after hearing the news: