Battle-Ready Barbie
Ahead of her meet and greet at the Club this month, pro wrestler Chi Chi shares why she left the stage to battle in the ring.
Japanese pro wrestler Chi Chi is no stranger to performing.
Long before she was scouted as a founding member of Evolution Joshi Pro-Wrestling, the petite powerhouse graced the stage as a ballerina for more than 20 years. When she stepped into the ring on March 31, 2023, against experienced wrestler Yuu, known for her judo-infused style and international wrestling success, she fell short in her first bout. But the experience fueled her desire to rise to the top. The “battle-ready Barbie” tells INTOUCH why she traded the grace of ballet for the grit of wrestling.
What drew you to wrestling?
I was drawn to the dynamic moves, the sound of bodies hitting the mat and the sight of wrestlers who never give up—no matter how much pain they’re in.
How does your ballet training translate to the ring?
The flexibility and grace I developed through dance really shine through in my wrestling style. For example, when I’m in a bridge or stretch hold, my flexibility allows my body to bend and stretch further than my opponents, making it visually striking—even though it hurts a lot!
How does your training differ between ballet and wrestling?
The big difference is the role your voice plays in the performance. In ballet, you express yourself without speaking, but in wrestling, you use your voice to connect with the audience, so you’re always vocal, even in practice. Wrestling training is also tougher—I rarely pushed myself to the point of being out of breath in ballet. As for similarities, both can have happy and not-so-happy endings (laughs). Also, both the ring and the stage are like living creatures—you only get one shot, and anything can happen.
What does being part of the sport mean to you?
I’m still a rookie, but I’m at the top of my group and responsible for teaching my juniors. It’s rare for a rookie to have that opportunity, so it’s a mental challenge, but I feel it’s helping me grow. It’s a lot of fun building up [Evolution Joshi Pro-Wrestling].
What is your ultimate goal or dream?
To become a Barbie doll. Mattel, the company that makes Barbie, creates dolls of famous people. I want to be successful, become famous and one day play with a Chi Chi Barbie.
What can Members expect from this month’s meet and greet?
I want this to be a chance for everyone to discover the fun of pro wrestling. I’d love for boys and girls alike to join us. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone!
Meet and Greet with Pro Wrestler Chi Chi
November 23 | 1–2:30pm
Words: C Bryan Jones
Top Image of Chi Chi: Evolution Joshi Pro-Wrestling
November 2024
