10 Next Big Things In Wrestling You Need To Know

8. Utami Hayashishita (Stardom)

Jordan Omogbehin Stokely Hathaway
Stardom

Japan's World Wonder Ring Stardom have had several of their top stars pilfered by biggest promotions in recent years, with former cornerstones Kairi Hojo (Sane, to WWE fans) and Io Shirai the most notable departures. They have soldiered on, however, building new stars in their wake, with 20-year-old Uyami Hayashishita one of several to be elevated towards company ace Mayu Iwatani's level.

Hayashishita is the least experienced wrestler on her list. She has less than a year under her belt, having debuted on 12 August, 2018, though she performs with an aptitude far beyond her years. To watch her is to witness one of the decade's most impressive rookies. Blessed with good size, her impactful judo-based offence, strong selling, heart, and facials are already at a high level, and though she's far from complete as a performer, Utami hasn't looked out of place in Japan's most popular joshi promotion.

Hayashishita's is one of those names you'll see constantly linked to WWE two or three years from now. Staying in Japan would be a wise idea for now, though, particularly as the Tokyo Sport Rookie of the Year has already held two Stardom championships.

Key Match: vs. Mayu Iwatani (Stardom 5STAR Grand Prix - 24 September 2019)

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.