Thekla Says She Finally Found Her Wrestling Home in AEW, Explains Her Anger for STARDOM President Taro Okada

During a recent interview with Clutch Points, AEW Women’s World Champion Thekla discussed her upcoming title defense against Starlight Kid this weekend at Forbidden Door, her relationship with STARDOM President Taro Okada, finding her wrestling home in AEW, and more. Below are some highlights:

Thekla on How STARDOM Shaped Her Career

“Stardom very much shaped my career. That’s where I learned the ropes, more or less. Became more of‌ a technical wrestler, and just learned to be able to deal with very harsh schedules. Did everything from TV to interviews to being on the road for days, the tour bus life, and then also tried out new things, but also, at some point, you know, do my own thing as the Idol Killer, which was probably the most fun I had had in my career until that point.”

On her Rivalry With STARDOM President Taro Okada

“All of those memories are very fun and happy memories, ‌except for getting fired, of course. That was a little bit of a sad memory, but I also cherish the moments I get to have now because every time I see him [Taro Okada], he evokes feelings of aggression in me. So, as I said, happy memories from this weekend when I flew to Japan for 14 hours and beat the living hell out of him again. I’m thankful for that. I’m very happy, balanced, zen, you know [after beating Taro Okada].”

Her Time in STARDOM and Finally Finding Her Home in AEW

“It has been only great. I love working with all the people there. I love being around so many legends and people who have done great and big things for the wrestling industry. The locker room is‌ fun. There are a bunch of nasty girls, obviously, as in every locker room. But most people are ****ing phenomenal, so I couldn’t be happier. Actually, I think I may have finally found my wrestling home in AEW.”

On Defending Her Title Against Starlight Kid

“I think she does because she’s a‌ very good wrestler, an outstanding wrestler. I’ve seen her have very challenging matches in Japan that she, that she managed to win. So I would like to play her down, but I do know the challenge she brings. But at the same time, I have a strong belief and self-confidence that I can overcome her as well. She’s beaten me before. Yes, we have crossed paths many times. It’s important in a way that I can, after this Sunday, I can cross her off my list of ***hes that I’ve beaten and gone through and humiliated.”

As previously reported, Thekla made a shocking appearance at last weekend’s STARDOM The Conversion event, where she attacked President Okada before Starlight Kid made the save. The two wrestlers will face off for the AEW Women’s World Title on Sunday (June 28) at Forbidden Door 2026.

AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2026 is being held at the SAP Center in San Jose, California. It will be broadcast live on pay-per-view.