IYO SKY Celebrates WWE Win as the Greatest Moment of Her Life
Former WWE Women’s World Champion IYO SKY Reflects on Historic WrestleMania Victory
Historic Triumph at WrestleMania 41
Former WWE Women’s World Champion IYO SKY recently described her successful title defense at WrestleMania 41 as the pinnacle of her career. SKY faced off against formidable opponents Rhea Ripley and Bianca Belair in a thrilling Triple Threat match, which took place on the second night of the event. Her victory not only secured her position as a top-tier wrestler but also marked her as the first Japanese woman to win a match at WrestleMania. This accomplishment highlights her exceptional journey from wrestling in small venues in Japan’s independent circuit to the global stage of WWE.
IYO SKY’s Journey from Japan to WWE Stardom
Born Masami Odate in Kamakura, Japan, SKY’s path to WWE stardom was paved with determination and resilience. She began her career with her sister under the ring names Io and Mio Shirai, making a name for themselves across Japan’s independent promotions like Ibuki, JWP Joshi Puroresu, and Sendai Girls’ Pro Wrestling. Her exceptional talent caught attention during 2008–09, setting the stage for a major career leap.
In 2018, SKY made the bold decision to leave her home country to join WWE NXT. She adeptly navigated the challenges of the transition, mastering not only wrestling techniques but also the intricacies of television production, which included engaging with the audience and performing in English.
A Reign Full of Milestones
SKY’s dedication paid off when she captured her first WWE Women’s Championship in August 2023, following a strategic cash-in of her Money in the Bank contract against Belair. Her reign lasted an impressive 245 days with the Raw Women’s Title before she claimed the Women’s World Championship from Ripley in March.
Highlighting her successful transition and exceptional caliber, SKY credits her WrestleMania victory to the high level of competition provided by both Ripley and Belair, which pushed her performance to new heights. “Not just the result but also being with the best wrestlers in Bianca and Rhea. I was able to take on the best stage, the best performers, the best match, and make the most of history,” SKY told The Japan Times.
Upcoming Match at WWE Crown Jewel
The excitement continues as SKY is set to team up with Rhea Ripley at the upcoming Crown Jewel event. They will face Asuka and Kairi Sane, a match that brings together multiple generations of Japanese wrestling brilliance. This encounter carries special significance for SKY, as she and Asuka have previously teamed up during their early careers, long before they envisioned sharing WWE’s global platform.
