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:
13 yrs…stars will come and go, and Stardom will thrive. Thank you Mr. Ogawa for creating this beautiful place we know as Stardom. Up next, the Cinderella Tournament! pic.twitter.com/IJrbolOfU3
— STARDOM Global (@we_are_stardom) February 4, 2024
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.”
突然、昨日の試合後に契約解除を通達されました。事の真実はいずれ話すこともあるでしょう。今は選手たちが心配です。これまで13年間スターダムを応援ありがとうございました。これからはブシロードが作るスターダムとなります。 pic.twitter.com/vTj3giwl5z
— ロッシー小川 Rossy Ogawa (@rossyogawa) February 5, 2024
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:
Thank you for giving the talent a place to work and grow to become the best in the business and for the great matches you helped to put together. May you have continued success down whatever path you choose.
— twoteaspoons (@2teespoons4) February 5, 2024
Much love and respect for all you have created and given to us Ogawa-san. Stardom was a perfect thing during the perfect time. All my best to you and also to the players who helped you build one of the most exciting professional wrestling promotions in history.
— Gordon Snow (@GordonsBoring) February 5, 2024
Your hard work and dedication to this sport cannot be overstated. The impact that you have left on Japanese Pro Wrestling is immeasurable. Thank you, Ogawa-san!
— Frank Zappata (@frank_zappata) February 5, 2024
Thanks for everything Rossy, STARDOM will never be the same without you. We will continue to support you for the next project.
— Frédéric Omega (@FredFanJoshi) February 5, 2024
