12. Giant Baba

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Trained by the legendary Rikidozan, Shohei “Giant” Baba was a true groundbreaker. His huge size (6 ft 10) made him stand out and break the stereotype of the smaller Asian athlete. Baba became the first Japanese wrestler to win the coveted NWA World Heavyweight Title and his status as a national hero was well deserved.

As successful as Baba was as a wrestler, he was actually a far better promoter.Baba created All Japan Pro Wrestling which became the most successful promotion in Japan.All Japan was the place for foreign talent and it can’t be argued that Baba created more stars in Japan (Japanese or foreign) than anyone else.With other promoters from the past being acknowledged in the WWE Hall, it isn’t impossible for Giant Baba to find his way in.However, with Antonio Inoki in, the WWE Hall has already acknowledged a legendary figure in Japanese wrestling.There is no real reason to think they will induct two.

 

Should Giant Baba be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 82%
Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 9%
Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 6.8%
No opinion. - 0%
No way! - 2.3%

The Bullet Points

  • Other Aliases: Shohei Baba (Real Name)
  • Billed From: Sanjo, Japan
  • Key Championships Held: AJPW All Asia Heavyweight
    NWA International Heavyweight (3)
    NWA International Tag Team (12) (1w/Michiaki Kochimura, 4w/Antonio Inoki, 1w/Seiji Sakaguchi, 6w/Jumbo Tsuruta)
    NWA World Heavyweight (3)
    NWA World Tag Team (Detroit) w/Jumbo Tsuruta
    PWF Heavyweight (4)
    Champion’s Carnival Win (7) (1973, 1974, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1981 & 1982)
    World Strongest Tag Team League (2) (1978 & 1980) w/Jumbo Tsuruta
  • Why they will get in: With other promoters getting in the Hall, the penultimate Japanese promoter could have a shot.
  • Why they won't get in: The working relationship between WWE and All Japan doesn’t really exist.
  • Five Greatest Matches/Moments: 1. Formed All Japan Pro Wrestling (1970)
    2. Won the initial All Japan Champion’s Carnival (1973)
    3. Won the first PWF Heavyweight Championship in the classic ten match series (all in one night!) with wins over Bruno Sammartino, Terry Funk, Abdullah The Buthcer, Pat O’Connor, Wilbur Snyder, Bobo Brazil, Don Leo Jonathan & The Destroyer (2/27/73)
    4. Defeated Jack Brisco to win the NWA World Heavyweight Title and became the first Japanese wrestler to do so (12/2/74)
    5. In an emotional match, teamed with Andre the Giant to defeat Demolition at the WWF/AJPW summit (4/13/90)

Should Giant Baba be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 82%
Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 9%
Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 6.8%
No opinion. - 0%
No way! - 2.3%

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Last modified on Friday, 26 April 2024 18:51
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