The Golden Phoenix Rises: 5 Shocking Moments From Saya Kamitani Vs. Tam Nakano's Career-Defining Feud
The rivalry between Saya Kamitani and Tam Nakano is not just a chapter in the history of World Wonder Ring Stardom; it is arguably the defining saga of the promotion’s modern era, a deeply personal and professional conflict that culminated in one of the most emotional and high-stakes matches in joshi wrestling history.
As of late December 2025, the dust has finally settled on this epic feud, following a heartbreaking Career vs. Career match where the stakes were the highest possible: the World of Stardom Championship and a STARDOM career. The final confrontation saw Kamitani solidify her status as the new "Golden Phoenix" of the promotion, while Nakano—a beloved veteran—was forced to step away, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be intertwined with her final, greatest rival.
The Architects of Destiny: Saya Kamitani & Tam Nakano Profile
This legendary feud was built on the contrasting yet equally passionate careers of two of STARDOM’s most decorated stars. Their final match was a culmination of a story arc that began with mentorship and ended with a tragic, necessary separation.
Saya Kamitani: The Golden Phoenix
- Ring Name: Saya Kamitani
- Born: November 28, 1996 (Age 29 as of late 2025)
- Hometown: Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
- Height: 5 ft 6 in (168 cm)
- Debut: August 10, 2019
- Primary Faction: Formerly Queen's Quest, currently the villainous H.A.T.E.
- Signature Moves: Phoenix Splash, Star Crusher, Firebird Splash
- Key Championships: World of Stardom Championship (2-time), Wonder of Stardom Championship (Longest Reigning Champion)
Kamitani’s career is defined by her incredible athleticism and her meteoric rise, earning her the moniker "The Golden Phoenix." Her second reign as World of Stardom Champion, secured against Nakano, cemented her position at the top. Her recent shift to the dark side, joining the controversial H.A.T.E. faction, added a bitter layer to the final stages of her feud with the pure-hearted Nakano.
Tam Nakano: The White Knight
- Ring Name: Tam Nakano (Retired from STARDOM)
- Real Name: Yuria Tauchi
- Born: March 22, 1988 (Age 37 as of late 2025)
- Hometown: Kyoto, Japan
- Height: 5 ft 2 in (157 cm)
- Debut: July 17, 2016 (Professional Wrestling)
- Primary Faction: Cosmic Angels (Leader)
- Signature Moves: Violet Screwdriver, Twilight Dream, Tiger Suplex
- Key Championships: World of Stardom Championship, Wonder of Stardom Championship, Goddesses of Stardom Championship
Nakano is a former idol who brought a unique blend of martial arts (having trained in kung fu) and emotional intensity to the ring. As the leader of the popular Cosmic Angels, she was the emotional core of STARDOM for years. Her first World of Stardom Championship win was a career highlight, and her final rivalry with Kamitani became the ultimate test of her legacy, ending in her forced retirement from the promotion.
The Final Chapter: Dream Queendom 2024 to All Star Grand Queendom 2025
The rivalry between Kamitani and Nakano has deep roots, tracing back to their earlier days and their shared history competing for the Wonder of Stardom Championship. However, the final, explosive chapter began at the end of 2024 and dominated the STARDOM landscape for the first half of 2025.
1. The Dream Queendom Upset (December 29, 2024)
The first major clash of the final saga took place at STARDOM Dream Queendom 2024 in Ryogoku Sumo Hall. Tam Nakano was the reigning World of Stardom Champion, having finally achieved the pinnacle of the promotion. Saya Kamitani, having recently returned from injury and showing a new, more aggressive edge, challenged for the title.
In a shock to many, Kamitani defeated Nakano to capture the World of Stardom Championship for the second time. This victory wasn't just a title change; it was Kamitani officially dethroning the emotional anchor of the company and taking her place as the champion of the new generation. The loss deeply affected Nakano, sowing the seeds of desperation that would fuel her next, fateful challenge.
2. The "Loser Leaves Stardom" Challenge (February 24, 2025)
Following her title loss, Tam Nakano’s focus became singular: reclaim the World of Stardom Championship and restore her honor. In a non-title match in Tochigi on February 24, 2025, Nakano managed to score a victory over Kamitani. This win gave her the leverage she needed.
Immediately after the bell, Nakano delivered a fiery, emotional challenge: a "Loser Leaves Stardom" match. The stakes were unprecedented—not only would the winner walk away with the World of Stardom Championship, but the loser would be forced to retire from the promotion. Kamitani, now fully embracing her role as the cold, dominant champion, accepted the challenge, setting the stage for a historic confrontation.
3. The All Star Grand Queendom Showdown (April 27, 2025)
The final, career-defining match took place at STARDOM All Star Grand Queendom 2025 at Yokohama Arena. The atmosphere was electric and heavy with emotion. This was not just a wrestling match; it was a battle for the soul of Tam Nakano and the coronation of Saya Kamitani.
The match was a brutal, back-and-forth war, with both women utilizing their most dangerous maneuvers. Nakano unleashed her signature Violet Screwdriver, while Kamitani countered with devastating variations of her Phoenix Splash. In the end, it was Kamitani who delivered the final, decisive blow, hitting the Twilight Dream to secure the pinfall victory.
The result meant Saya Kamitani retained the World of Stardom Championship, and Tam Nakano—the revered leader of Cosmic Angels—was forced to retire from World Wonder Ring Stardom.
A Legacy Forged in Gold and Tears
The immediate aftermath of the Career vs. Career match was one of the most poignant moments in joshi wrestling history. Tam Nakano’s farewell speech was tearful, acknowledging the end of her STARDOM journey and passing the torch to the new generation, specifically Saya Kamitani. The sheer weight of the loss, and the finality of the stipulation, elevated the entire feud to legendary status.
The Rise of the New Final Boss
For Saya Kamitani, the victory over Tam Nakano solidified her transition from a promising star to an undeniable main event force. By defeating the woman who had previously been the emotional core of the company, and forcing her into retirement, Kamitani emerged as a formidable, almost villainous "final boss" figure. Her subsequent alignment with H.A.T.E. only amplified this new persona, suggesting a darker, more dominant era for the World of Stardom Championship.
An Eternal Feud and Match of the Year Contender
The incredible storytelling, the high stakes, and the quality of the wrestling throughout the saga have led many to label the final match as a strong contender for the 2025 Match of the Year. The rivalry was praised for its seven-year narrative build, culminating in a dramatic, emotionally charged climax that perfectly encapsulated the mentor/student dynamic turned bitter rivalry.
The legacy of Saya Kamitani vs. Tam Nakano is one of sacrifice and succession. It is the story of a veteran, Tam Nakano, giving her all to test the new champion, Saya Kamitani, and in doing so, ensuring the future of STARDOM is in the hands of a truly tested and proven talent. Even in retirement, Nakano’s influence and the memories of her battles will continue to shape the careers of the Cosmic Angels and every wrestler who steps into the ring with the Golden Phoenix. The feud not only ended a career but also launched a new era in joshi puroresu.
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