A major championship change occurred in the NJPW STRONG Women’s division at Resurgence on May 9, 2025, as AZM defeated Mercedes Moné to capture the NJPW STRONG Women’s Championship. The title match, which also involved Stardom’s Mina Shirakawa, was a hard-fought three-way encounter.
Mercedes Moné, who had held the title and defended it successfully on previous occasions, faced a formidable challenge from both the high-speed prodigy AZM and the cunning Shirakawa. The match showcased a dynamic clash of styles, with all three competitors having moments to shine.
Ultimately, it was Stardom’s AZM who capitalized on an opening to secure the pinfall or submission, ending Moné’s reign and claiming the prestigious championship for herself. This victory marks a significant achievement for AZM and a major shift in the landscape of the NJPW STRONG Women’s division.
The loss for Mercedes Moné raises questions about her next steps in NJPW and beyond, while AZM begins her reign as the new standard-bearer for women in NJPW STRONG. The inclusion of Mina Shirakawa also highlighted the ongoing connections between NJPW and Stardom.
