Sukeban: Everything You Need To Know About The Upstart Japanese Women’s Wrestling League
Sukeban has launched, but what is it exactly?
Over the past several months, there have been rumors of about an upstart Japanese women's wrestling promotion coming to the US. Japanese wrestling legend Bull Nakano was linked to Sukeban, but details were scarce.
On September 1, a minute long video was posted to social media under the Sukeban World accounts. It was cross between anime and real life with punk music blaring in the background. Fans were quickly shown the women of the factions. At the end, it announced that the first show would be September 21 in New York City.
Within two hours of that video going up, the show sold out. It's unclear how many tickets were available. Regardless, it's impressive for a brand new promotion and its very first show.
Sukeban grew out of opposition to American and British occupation of Japan during World War II. The all-male gangs were "banchō". Since women weren't allowed, they formed the sukeban, which translates to "delinquent girl" or "girl boss".
Sukeban wore long skirts in defiance of mini skirts and being sexualized. They also wore short blouses and Converse shoes. In the 70s, some of the women also began dying their hair bold colors.
The women used their skirts to conceal weapons such as swords, chains, and razors. They were involved in petty crime. The subculture permeated various areas of Japan. The largest group had more than 20,000 members, larger than some Yakuza groups.
There are four factions: Cherry Bomb Girls, The Vandals, Dangerous Liaisons, and Harajuku Stars.
The Harajuku Stars are comprised of Babyface, Saki Bimi, Maya Mamushi, and Ichigo Sayaka. They are described as using a "devastating blend of experience, technical ability, and chic style to turn the fiercest opponents into playthings."
Dangerous Liaisons are described as both lethal and glamorous. Their versatility enables the "supercilious crew to annihilate foes via technical precision, high-speed attacks, and hardcore brawling." Lady Antoinette, Queen of Hearts, Countess Saori, and Commander Nakajima round out this faction.
Crush Yuu, Supersonic, and Riko Blondie are collectively known as Cherry Bomb Girls. Described as "explosive and heroic", the Girls mix "blinding speed and raw strength."
Rounding out the factions are The Vandals. Bingo is the "resident evil clown". Atomic Banshee is the "small but widely feared" chairwoman. As a nerd, Otaku-chan "has the opportunity to exact revenge for countless innocent victims of swirlies and wedgies." A rugged biker with an unorthodox fighting style, Midnight Player, rounds out the group.
The wildcard in Sukeban is Stray Cat. She doesn't belong to any faction and is the youngest member on the roster. After dark is when she becomes her feline alter ego.
Sukeban's first show will stream exclusively on the brand's TikTok. There are five matches. Cherry Bomb Girls vs. The Vandals will kick off the show. There will be a special attraction three-way match between Saki Bimi, Queen Takase vs. X.
Midnight Player will take on Stray Cat and Harajuku Stars will face Dangerous Liaisons. The main event will be a title eliminator with Countess Saori taking on Ichigo Sayaka.
The show begins streaming at 8 PM ET.
