Wow, it’s hard to believe that we’ve already reached the semi-finals, and in just two weeks, there’ll be no ‘World of Street Woman Fighter’ episodes releasing. It feels like just yesterday when the previews, teasers, and posters were dropped and the excitement exploded. Sure, the drama and backlash started even before the show did. Not to mention the rumors about who’d be the first team to go. However, with international dance crews, famous choreographers, and amazing soundtracks, everyone was locked in.
Despite all the criticism, here we are, standing near the finale. Anticipation for who’s going to win is only getting stronger. So, let’s take a look back at the semi-finals and the last eliminated crew —trust me, you’d be surprised!
Global Artist Performance Mission
Every season includes the legendary Artist Mission, which usually features K-pop idols. For instance, last season’s artist was MAMAMOO’s member Hwasa. However, this time, the show completely took a new turn. Mnet’s dance show aligned with the international scale and truly went worldwide by selecting a global artist and American rapper Saweetie.
So, each team had to select one member to represent Saweetie in the performance, and they —Leejung, Aaliyah, Minami, and Kaidi — had to breathe life into their characters with passion and charisma. I think only two teams managed to fully embody the role and suit the song: AG Squad and MOTIV. Kaidi pulled off a powerful performance, while Aaliyah didn’t just act—she ate that role up. I loved her energy, her sassiness, her stage presence, and even her style.
On the other hand, I was disappointed with BUMSUP. A lot. Leejung is YG’s girl, known for her bold and kickass vibe. I thought she’d be the perfect fit for the role. Yet, the whole team strayed from the main theme of the song. In the last season, team BEBE did change the theme, but their choreography was incredible and won hearts. BUMSUP’s performance, including that duo dance of Lip J and Monika, felt forced and a total buzzkill.
Honestly, the battle was only between MOTIV and AG Squad, and in the end, Saweetie chose AG Squad.
Dance Film Mission
This mission felt somewhat chaotic to me. They had already announced the winner —OJO Gang —and then they unexpectedly added a new section and expanded the mission into a full final project. According to the rules, each crew had to choreograph a part of the video, and there’d also be a ‘Hidden Section’, where the winning team would be chosen by the judges.
So, remember the theme was “Women”.
The most surprising team for me was MOTIV. They always find a way to blow us away, and this time was no different. Especially their leader, Marlee — I mean, where does she get such creative ideas? Their hidden section was not only clear but beautiful, and it made total sense that they were chosen as winners. No arguments here!
When it comes to AG Squad, I really liked how they danced powerfully with emotion. And that angle between Vanessa and Aaliyah alone deserved a round of applause. OJO Gang, though, there’s something I don’t particularly agree with. It kinda feels like they are always trying too hard to make Kyoka the center —maybe because she’s the most famous member, especially given the buzz she created in South Korea. But their performance, including their hidden section, lacked some punch.
Once again, I was let down by BUMSUP’s performance. Perhaps, the only part I was satisfied with was their hidden section. I’m not talking about the chaotic water dance scene or the ending trophy part. I’m referring to the part where Lip J is faced with accusing fingers —this creative part was well-executed. But as one of the judges mentioned, their section included way too many elements.
Last Elimination Round
Criticism came before the semi-finals, with fans arguing and rumors flying about who they fear would be eliminated. But, one of the biggest shocks of the show was definitely seeing BUMSUP standing in the elimination round, against MOTIV. Since their performance videos always generate a high number of likes and views, no one expected the group to battle in the elimination round.
For this elimination round, we had JYP, Lia Kim, Mike Song, KITE, and Poppin’ C on the judges’ panel. The battle was hosted by the cute MC Sung Hanbin. And, I think we all watched the intense battles, knowing that MOTIV would come out as winners. Some might have seen two powerhouse teams clashing, while many saw a strong contender overcoming a weak crew.
And, the winner was MOTIV.
Final Thoughts Before the Grand Finale
I tuned in to the show, rooting for BUMSUP —come on, many members are some of the original icons of the K-pop scene, real OGs. But, I have to admit, from an objective perspective, that compared to the other international crews, they were a weak team. Maybe they were juggling hectic schedules or were too used to the K-pop circuit, but as much as it pains me to say, BUMSUP genuinely deserved to be eliminated.
However, on that note, it’s just my prediction, but I feel like AG Squad might be this season’s winners. After 8 episodes, I’ve come to like them, and they are indeed very, very strong contenders. There’s something about their chemistry, teamwork, presence, and energy that just feels like they’re heading for the win. So, don’t be too surprised if my prediction does come true.
But what about you? Who do you think will take the crown? Comment below!
Written by Diksha Gangadeen
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