This was a big match in the Blue Stars block with the winner being in control of her own fate going into the final day. Hazuki is just nasty in this match, jumping Iwatani at the start then viciously going after her arm. Iwatani stays in the match by hitting just enough big shots while still selling her arm, eventually catching Hazuki with a dragon suplex for the win. Short, but quick and action packed. ***3/4

5STAR Grand Prix 2018 Block A: Hazuki vs. Mayu Iwatani

Hazuki goes after Mayu like a relentless wolverine, and Mayu being the bump technician she is sold and bumped like a madman. Great flow in general, with nice counters and armwork (the way Mayu switched her wrist band from the healthy arm to the injured arm was a nice subtle touch). Mayu scores some savage head kicks, including a gnarly axe kick.

****1/4