Iyo Sky, the former WWE Women’s World Champion and one of the most decorated female wrestlers in recent history, is gearing up to compete outside of WWE for a major Japanese wrestling promotion. This marks a significant return to the international ring for Sky, who has made history with WWE and now seeks to expand her global footprint beyond the company.
Iyo Sky’s Storied WWE Career and Recent Developments
Iyo Sky, known for her athleticism and innovative style, made waves in WWE by becoming the tenth WWE Women’s Triple Crown Champion and the seventh WWE Women’s Grand Slam Champion. She captured the Women’s World Championship on March 3, 2025, by defeating Rhea Ripley, establishing herself as a top talent on WWE’s main roster[1]. Her title reign featured memorable matches, including a historic WrestleMania 41 triple threat match rated five stars by Dave Meltzer, the first women’s match in WWE history to receive such acclaim[1].
After a 132-day reign, Sky lost the Women’s World Title to Naomi, who cashed in her Money in the Bank briefcase in July 2025. Sky’s attempts to regain the championship have so far been unsuccessful, including a close triple threat match at SummerSlam and a subsequent loss to Stephanie Vaquer at WrestlePalooza 2025[1][4].
Return to Japanese Wrestling: Dream Star Fighting Marigold Grand Destiny 2025
It was officially announced that Iyo Sky will compete at the upcoming Marigold Grand Destiny 2025 event held by Dream Star Fighting Marigold, a notable Japanese wrestling promotion. Scheduled for October, this match will be a highly-anticipated encounter, as Sky faces off against one of Japan’s premier stars, Mayu Iwatani, marking their first singles match confrontation in several years[5][7].
This return aligns with Sky’s previous Japanese appearances — she defeated Utami Hayashishita in July 2024 at a Marigold Summer Destiny event, a match hailed as a dream contest between two internationally recognized talents[1]. Her upcoming bout with Iwatani promises similarly high stakes, showcasing her evolution as a performer who can bridge American and Japanese wrestling audiences.
Backstage Perspectives on Iyo Sky’s Career Move
According to a WWE insider familiar with Sky’s status, “Iyo has always had a deep connection to Japanese wrestling culture, and this opportunity marks a natural progression in her career. The company respects her ambitions, and it’s clear she’s set to make a major impact outside WWE, with eyes on building an even bigger legacy globally.”
While there has been speculation about Sky’s WWE future, sources close to her indicate that this match outside WWE is an exciting expansion rather than an exit. The move reflects a growing trend of WWE stars expanding their horizons amid evolving contract landscapes in professional wrestling[7].
Context Within the 2025 WWE Landscape
2025 has been a turbulent year for WWE rosters, with notable releases and contract changes affecting many stars[2][3]. Iyo Sky’s transition to competing outside WWE aligns with this broader shift, as wrestlers seek new opportunities to showcase their talents both domestically and internationally.
This pivot also complements the disbandment of Damage CTRL earlier in 2025, a faction Iyo Sky helped lead[1][3]. As WWE’s women’s division changes, Sky’s versatility and international appeal provide her with unique career options not common to many WWE talents.
What to Expect at Marigold Grand Destiny 2025
Fans should anticipate a hard-hitting, technically sound match blending Sky’s high-flying style with Iwatani’s resilient Japanese strong-style approach. Both wrestlers are known for their in-ring psychology and passion, which elevates the matchmaking to a must-watch encounter.
Many industry experts view this match as a potential springboard for Sky, positioning her as a star who can thrive outside WWE’s scripted environment while maintaining mainstream attention.
Iyo Sky’s upcoming match in Japan not only signals a new chapter in her career but also exemplifies the increasingly fluid nature of professional wrestling careers in 2025. Whether in WWE or abroad, Sky is cementing her place as one of the premier female wrestlers of this era.
