Reimagined as The Queen of Villains: How ‘Crush Gals Unshown on Netflix Achieved Musical Success

Enthusiasm like a male idol concert

Streaming on September 19, Netflix’s original series “The Queen of Villains” quickly became a huge hit. The series depicts the life of Dump Matsumoto (63), who ruled as the most feared heel in the All Japan Women’s Pro-Wrestling (AJW) during the 1980s and sparked a boom. The protagonist, Dump, is played by comedian Yuriyan Retriever (33).

Also gaining renewed attention in the series is the ultra-popular tag team “Crush Gals,” who had fierce rivalries with Dump in the ring. In the series, Erika Karata (27) plays Chigusa Nagayo (59), while Ayame Goriki (32) portrays Lioness Asuka (61).

“Crush was incredibly popular, transcending the boundaries of pro wrestling at the time. They debuted as singers with ‘The Holy Bible of Flames’ in August 1984. The song was a big hit, written by Yukinojo Mori and composed by Tsugumi Goto, showcasing a star-studded lineup.

With backing from Fuji Television, AJW had previously succeeded in promoting wrestlers like Macho Munehisa and Jackie Sato, who were known as “Beauty Pair,” as dual-threats of wrestler and singer before Crush came along.”

After the disbandment of “Beauty Pair,” there were no idol-like wrestlers left, leading to the promotion of Crush, which turned out to be a huge success. It became the norm for wrestlers to sing before their matches, and the venues were often filled with enthusiastic middle and high school girl fans, resembling a male idol concert atmosphere,” said a music industry insider familiar with that era.