WWE ‘sign Stardom’s Kairi Hojo ahead of women’s tournament’

WWE have snapped up one of Japan’s most highly-rated wrestlers ahead of a long-mooted tournament for female performers, reports claim.

Kairi Hojo of Stardom has signed a three year deal with the US promotion, according to the Wrestling Observer, and will head to Florida next month to join up with NXT. 

The 28-year-old - along with fellow Stardom headliner Io Shirai - was linked with a similar move last November, with Stardom chief Rossy Ogawa quoted in Japanese media saying offers had been made by WWE.

Having debuted for Stardom in January 2012, Hojo has also performed for Lucha Underground and London-based outfit British Empire Wrestling.

A Cruiserweight Classic-style women’s event drawing upon talent from across the world has been rumoured for some months - before even the UK championship tournament was announced in December.

Welsh star Nixon Newell, Aussie Demi Bennett and Kiwi standout Evie are believed to be on board for the show, alongside confirmed recent NXT signings Ruby Riot (better knowm as Heidi Lovelace) and Kimberly Frankele (Kimber Lee).