Miku Aono Talks DREAM STAR GP, First Year in Marigold, Nanae Takahashi, More | Interview

Scott EdwardsAugust 1, 2025, 9:30 am

Miku Aono is the present and future of Marigold, ready to take another major step in her career.

Marigold’s “Brilliant Future” decided to leave her former organization, Actwres girl’Z, to join Marigold right before the company’s start in 2024. The decision has proven to be the right one for Aono, who became the first United National Champion at Summer Destiny 2024 by defeating both MIRAI and Bozilla on the same night. She held the championship for 174 days, securing three successful title defenses in her reign.

Her next accomplishment came on May 24th at Marigold’s first anniversary show, Shine Forever, where she was Nanae Takahashi’s final opponent — defeating her in the main event of that show and further proving that she is one of Marigold’s top stars.

Now, with the 2025 DREAM STAR Grand Prix — Marigold’s second annual round-robin tournament — beginning this Saturday, Aono has bigger goals in mind. “Brilliant Future” will look to win the tournament and has the Marigold World Championship on her mind.

Ahead of the DREAM STAR GP’s official start this Saturday, Fightful’s Scott Edwards had the opportunity to interview Miku Aono. Aono discussed a number of topics, including her growth throughout the first year of Marigold, the upcoming DREAM STAR GP, being Takahashi’s final opponent, Mayu Iwatani’s arrival, and so much more.

Here’s what Aono had to say!

Edwards: It’s been just over a year since Marigold was created. When I last interviewed you, you were in pursuit of the United National Championship, and the promotion was still so new. Now, you were the final opponent of Nanae Takahashi, at the center of Marigold, and heading into the DREAM STAR GP as one of the top contenders. What has this first year in Marigold meant to you? How proud are you of what you’ve managed to accomplish?

Miku: “This past year I’ve spent with Marigold was truly intense, passionate, and I ran through it with all my might. Being able to experience firsthand the process of building Marigold as an organization, from its launch, is a truly important time in my professional wrestling career.

“Becoming the first United National Champion and being a part of major milestones, such as Nanae Takahashi’s retirement match. I feel that being given such great opportunities and responsibilities is proof that the path I have walked so far is gradually taking shape, and I’m very proud of it.”

Edwards: Looking back on your decision to join Marigold over a year ago, you’ve proven it to be the right decision. You were seen as the ace of Actwres girl’Z, but you challenged yourself along with five others to join Marigold and start this incredible chapter. Can you believe your career has gone the way it has? What would it mean to you to become the ace of Marigold?

Miku: “There have been so many changes and evolutions that even I’m surprised by it all. In my previous organization, I was sometimes called the ace, but I still thought of myself as a nobody. That’s why jumping into Marigold from scratch was such a big decision for me. I came to Marigold with the determination to change my life, so my goal is to become the ace and stand at the center of Marigold, and I believe that this is the path that leads to my dream.”

Edwards: You were the first United National Champion. What did that championship run teach you about yourself and your place amongst Marigold’s strong roster?

Miku: “Winning the inaugural United National Championship meant a lot to me. Not only was it a tangible achievement, but more than that, it gave me the opportunity to really think deeply about what kind of role I wanted to play in Marigold.

“Marigold is filled with wrestlers, each with their own strengths and personalities, so it’s not easy to advance through the ranks, and I ended up facing many of my own shortcomings and challenges that I hadn’t even seen before.

“In particular, my battles with MIRAI, with whom I drew three times in the tournament, and Bozilla in the finals were special experiences for me, and taught me the weight of the belt, the responsibility, and the meaning of determination.”

Edwards: Since the very first show, Marigold Fields Forever, you were someone who showed the world that you’d be a star. You closed out the first show, Marigold Fields Forever, and then main evented the first anniversary earlier this year at Shine Forever. What does that mean to you looking back?

Miku: “The inaugural show was where it all began for me. I still vividly remember the tension and excitement I felt when I stepped into the ring that day. That first day, when I fought for my very existence in Marigold, a place that still had no shape, remains a special moment in my professional wrestling career.

“Then, at the one year anniversary event, I had the honor of facing Nanae Takahashi in a special retirement match. Including the fact that it was the main event, it was a truly honorable moment that will remain deeply etched in my heart. I stepped into the ring resolved to embrace all of the feelings and passion that Nanae has accumulated over the past 28 years of professional wrestling.

“The inaugural show and the one-year anniversary show are both important milestones for me. A determined start, and an opportunity to show what I’d built up over the past year. Each and every one of those experiences supports me to where I am today.”

Edwards: Speaking of Shine Forever, legend Nanae Takahashi selected you as her final opponent ever. Miku Aono will forever be the woman who ended Nanae Takahashi’s career! You two fought in an incredibly physical match, one that you managed to win by pinning Takahashi. First off, what did it mean to you to be selected by Takahashi to be her final opponent? And over the year you got to spend with her inside and outside of the ring, what did you learn from Takahashi?

Miku: “Nanae had decided to retire from the very beginning of the company’s launch, but at the time, I never dreamed that I would be her opponent in her retirement match. However, during our time together at Marigold, Nanae meant an enormous amount to me.

“Of course, I was greatly impressed by her battles in the ring, but she also taught me a lot about how she embodied passion at all times, such as the way she approached professional wrestling outside the ring.

“I will continue to move forward, living up to the great resolve I accepted as Nanae Takahashi’s final opponent, and having beaten her. Nanae Takahashi will always be in my heart.”

Edwards: Marigold has seen many wrestlers debut since the start of the company and has become key parts of Young Marigold. You’ve had the chance to team with them as well as face them in time. Do you have any thoughts on Young Marigold as you’ve watched them grow? Any specific ones that have stood out to you? Any that you’d like to face one-on-one in the ring?

Miku: “The growth of these young fighters is very encouraging!

“I think they inspire each other, which in turn develops a desire to never lose and a desire to improve, and they work hard together. We are also inspired by these young fighters and are hopeful for the future of Marigold.

“One fighter who has particularly impressed me is Victoria Yuzuki. Since the beginning, I’ve thought she was an incredible fighter despite her short career, and I’m amazed at how quickly she’s grown in the past year. Her athletic ability and sense are outstanding, so I’m both excited and intimidated to see what kind of fighter she will become.

“I’d like to face Shinno in a singles match.

“She’s a fighter who uses kicks like me, so I’d like to have a good, drawn-out exchange of kicks. I also think Shinno’s fighting spirit is amazing, so I’m looking forward to the day when we can go head-to-head.”

Edwards: Mayu Iwatani joined Marigold in May, right before the company’s first anniversary. “The Icon” told the world she’d be a savior for Marigold, and has been a big part of the company since. It’s clear that an eventual face-off between you two is one of the biggest first-time ever matches Marigold fans can see. What were your initial thoughts when Iwatani joined the company and shared her remarks? How do you feel about a potential singles match with her now that you’ve crossed paths in the ring, as partners and opponents?

Miku: “When Mayu Iwatani joined the company, I was really happy, but to be honest, I also had some confusion and mixed emotions. Having worked hard with Marigold for the past year, I also felt frustrated at how big a presence she was, stealing all the attention and buzz.

“But the more I get to know Mayu, having seen her matches up close, competing against her, and fighting with her in tag teams, the more I realize how amazing she is.

“Of course, I would like to have a singles match with her.

“I don’t know when that day will come, but when it does, I want to make it a match that exceeds the expectations of all the fans, and I want to be in top condition myself when I fight.”

Edwards: You had the chance to make your own match for your homecoming show in July and you decided on yourself and Mayu Iwatani vs. Chika Goto and Utami Hayashishita. What about each of these three wrestlers compelled you to choose them to take part in such a special match for yourself? And how was the experience returning home after all you’ve achieved since the last time you were there to wrestle

Miku: “Rossy Ogawa decided on the card for this homecoming show, but I’m truly grateful that he was able to put together such a special card for this important homecoming show.

“My partner, Mayu Iwatani, has an overwhelming presence. That was our first time teaming up, but strangely, I felt a sense of security and trust. Thanks to Mayu Iwatani, I think the people of Kawagoe were able to see the big changes and evolution I’ve seen since last year’s homecoming tournament.

“My opponent, Chika Goto, is a fighter I’ve watched grow up close for a long time. She’s getting stronger and stronger, and I was able to go head-to-head with her with all my might.

“And Utami Hayashishita is the Marigold World Champion. A power showdown with Utami gets me excited and fired up more than anything.

“I believe it was because these four people were able to compete that I was able to show fans the current Marigold and the current Miku Aono. And just being able to return to Kawagoe, where I was born and raised, is very meaningful to me. In the year since my last triumphant return, I’ve had a lot of different experiences. I’m very happy to be able to show what I’ve become in the city where I grew up. These homecoming shows are my motivation and driving force.”

Edwards: Throughout 2025, Marigold has been in an intense rivalry with Marvelous that has no end in sight. You were able to take part in the rivalry as part of the incredible 5 vs. 5 elimination match. What is your opinion of the rivalry as someone who has been able to represent Marigold in the war? Would you like to continue taking part of it in the future? And if so, is there a matchup you’d like to have specifically?

Miku: “I believe the matches with Marvelous are more than just a match between the wrestlers.

“It’s also a battle between Rossy Ogawa and Chigusa Nagayo, and I feel it is an incredibly deep and meaningful one. That’s why both sides are determined to come out on top, and I think it will be a never-ending rivalry.

“Through these battles, the bonds and unity of Marigold have certainly grown stronger. I myself feel a greater sense of responsibility and pride in fighting as a representative of Marigold with each passing match. That’s why I want to continue participating in this rivalry.

“We have another 5-on-5 knockout match against Marvelous on August 8th. I won’t miss this golden opportunity to get revenge from last time.

“Another match I would like to see happen is a singles match with Riko Kawahata. I faced Riko in the last match, but it ended in a disappointing draw, and I’m also interested to see her recently shaved eyebrows and other changes.

“The Marigold TwinStar belts also went to Marvelous, so I’m thinking about bringing them back. I was Riko’s opponent in her debut match, so I’m looking forward to facing the current Riko Kawahata.”

Edwards: To follow the match, you shared the ring with Riko Kawahata for the first time in a long time. The 10 minutes you wrestled each other were as physical and personal as any throughout that match. How’d you feel after getting to share the ring again with someone you have history with like Kawahata?

Miku: “10 minutes felt really short. I had always thought that my match with Riko would come someday, but I never imagined that it would involve representing both our organizations. It wasn’t just the joy of meeting again, but also the clash of wills and pride. But I still feel like I haven’t done enough. I want to go deeper and more intense.”

Edwards: In your time out of the ring, you do a weekly show that you post on social media. Many times it’s full with comedic moments, and fans have really started to look forward to them on a week to week basis. What led you to want to create something like this? Have you enjoyed the process?

Miku: “It all started with me wanting more people to know about women’s professional wrestling and Marigold, and also because I wanted to work as an actor. I hope to be able to deliver a program that only we, as professional wrestlers and actors, can create.

“We’re filming by trial and error, but it’s a lot of fun getting to try techniques that we don’t normally use and brainstorming ideas together!

“I’m very happy that it seems like so many fans are watching it too!!”

Edwards: The DREAM STAR GP is almost here. You will take part in the STAR League once again. Last year, you managed to earn 9 points and were a win away from potentially making the finals. How did your first tournament prepare you for this year? Why do you feel you’re the one who can win this year’s DREAM STAR GP?

Miku: “Last year’s DREAM STAR GP was a major turning point for me. I still remember my first singles matches against Nanae Takahashi and Sareee.

“Both matches were so impactful that they made me realize I had to become even stronger. I was so close to the finals, but it was frustrating to realize how big the next step was.

“That experience made me even more determined to win this year!! I now believe that last year’s disappointment was a necessary experience to shape who I am this year.

“I’m the only Marigold member to have attended every show!! I’ve competed in every show since our inception. That’s why I have to shine with Marigold, and I believe that winning here, for the sake of all those who support me, is my mission now.”

Edwards: As part of the STAR League, you’ll get the opportunity to face MIRAI one-on-one for the first time since you defeated her as part of the United National Title tournament. The rivalry that developed between you two was one that helped define Marigold’s first year. What did the rivalry with MIRAI last year do for you and your confidence? Are you looking forward to getting to share the ring with her once again, knowing how determined she will be to finally get a win over you?

Miku: “My rivalry with MIRAI has undoubtedly had a profound influence on my journey with Marigold. Victory in that United National Championship Tournament was a major turning point for me.

“It’s no exaggeration to say that I am who I am today thanks to MIRAI.

“It’s been a really long time since we’ve faced each other in a singles match again. I think this will be an opportunity to show everyone how much we’ve both evolved in that time. I want to surpass MIRAI again with the person I am now. That’s why I can’t wait to face MIRAI again.”

Edwards: On the flip side of that, you’ll also get the chance to face Mai Sakurai once again on the final night of the DREAM STAR. Sakurai is the woman who defeated you for the United National Championship and has had your number in Marigold. She very well could be the match that decides if you make the final or not. While there’s a long way to go, what’s your mindset regarding the long-awaited rematch after she had your number at First Dream this year?

Miku: “Mai Sakurai is the wrestler I’m most conscious of and want to beat at this DREAM STAR event. I still can’t forget the disappointment I felt that day when she took the United National Championship.

“I believe that beating Mai Sakurai would mean overcoming the past and proving my own evolution.

“This time, I’ll really surpass Mai Sakurai and advance to the DREAM STAR GP finals.”

Edwards: Utami Hayashishita is the Marigold World Champion. Anytime you two have shared the ring in tag team action, it’s been instant magic — but a singles match between you two has not happened yet. If you win the DREAM STAR GP, you’ll have the chance to finally face her and try to take the Marigold World Championship from her as well. Looking ahead, what’s your view of Utami Hayashishita and her world championship reign? Do you feel you need to be the one to take the championship from her once you two finally square off?

Miku: “For me, matches with Utami Hayashishita are always stimulating and exciting, and she’s an opponent I can go all out against.

“Since the day we launched, I’ve always felt like Utami was one step ahead of me, and I’ve always been aware of that. That’s why I’ve been looking forward to facing her in a singles match and challenging for the World Championship.

Finally, that opportunity has come into sight.

“Whether I can seize this opportunity will ultimately depend on DREAM STAR GP. I know that beating Utami Hayashishita in her current form won’t be easy. But I’ve gained a lot of experience over the past year and I’m confident.

“I believe that beating the strongest Utami Hayashishita and becoming World Champion will make Marigold even more exciting in the future.”

Edwards: You can accomplish something no one has before with a DREAM STAR GP victory and eventual title challenge. What would it mean to you to be the first in the promotion’s history to win the United National Championship, DREAM STAR GP, and Marigold World Championship?

Miku: “The words ‘great achievement’ get me fired up. I have the chance to be the first to attempt a feat that no one else has achieved. It’s an honor, but at the same time, I feel it’s an incredibly heavy responsibility.

“But that’s exactly why I want to achieve it. As the face of the organization, and to demonstrate my determination to lead the way, I want to win the DREAM STAR GP and capture the Marigold World Championship that Utami Hayashishita holds.

“It is I who will carve out the future for this organization.”

Edwards: You’ve had some incredible matches over the last year with opponents inside and outside of Marigold. Matches with Nanae Takahashi, MIRAI, Mai Sakurai, Sareee, and others have been among the most memorable. Is there an opponent that you have not had the chance to face yet that you’d like to in the near future? If there is, why?

Miku: “There are many fighters I have yet to face who inspire me. Whether inside or outside the organization, there are many moments when I think I would like to fight this person.

“I have a brimming curiosity, so there are too many to narrow it down. Right now, I’m just going to give each match in front of me my all, and I hope to meet even more exciting opponents in the future.

“I think the fact that I’ve been able to think this way is proof that I’ve grown both mentally and physically over the past year.”

Edwards: Is there anything you’d like to tell your fans around the world as you prepare yourself to compete in the DREAM STAR GP and chase the Marigold World Championship as we’ve discussed here today?

Miku: “I have a future I want to make come true.

“I’m aiming to win the DREAM STAR GP and then reach the Marigold World Championship. That means reaching the pinnacle of this organization.

“It’s not an easy path, and it’s a place you can’t reach unless you’re determined. But I’m ready to do just that now. And I want everyone all over the world to see that.

“I want to be someone who can reach fans not just in Japan, but all over the world. I’m fighting to carve out a path for the future.

“Even if we don’t speak the same language, my fighting spirit will surely reach people.

“From DREAM STAR GP to the World Championship match beyond, I want to leave the name Aono Miku in the hearts of people all over the world.”

Scott and Fightful would like to thank Miku Aono and Marigold for helping this interview come together and making it a reality.

We also want to thank Chiyoko for yet again providing important assistance in this interview. Chiyoko helped translate the questions from English to Japanese for Aono to answer.

You can follow Chiyoko on Twitter here: @chiyoko_asakura

Miku Aono and Marigold will kick off the DREAM STAR Grand Prix this Saturday with a double-header event. Aono is set to face Misa Matsui in her opening match before reigniting her feud with MIRAI in the evening show. Both shows will be live on WRESTLE UNIVERSE.

Here’s the full lineup for each show:

Day Show