Posted February 19, 201015 yr comment_5447925 Stan Hansen vs. Kenta Kobashi 4-10-94 This is a Champion's Carnival match. WHAT WORKED: * Hansen being absolutely surly, and Kobashi being a daredevil against the huge Texan. * Kobashi bringing the fight to Hansen, retribution for years of being Hansen's punching bag. * The brawling on the outside was terrific, Kobashi was like a man possessed. * The bumps and stiffness, staples of AJPW in the '90s. Like the powerbomb on the floor with Vader like force. * Kobashi's spectacular selling, Hansen was no slouch either. WHAT DIDN'T WORK: * The ref and his terrible counts - All Japan had some of the worst refs ever. * Didn't live up to expectations of their 7/29/93 match, but it would be hard too. ****1/4 Mitsuharu Misawa vs. Toshiaki Kawada 4/11/94 For some reason, this is not a Champion's Carnival match. WHAT WORKED: * Its Misawa and Kawada. I know that this train of thought wouldn't be as valid in their later stages, but in '94, it is gospel. * Action packed contest until the time limit is reached. There is no wasted movement. * Closing sequence. I knew it was going to be a draw, but the heat and build is epic. Kawada holding on, while taking immense damage is a great character building match. * The dive block sequence was splendid. * Kawada utilizing the head exploding philosophy, but not going ape shit with it. * No moves are really given, I have always liked this. It is not just kick in the gut, then wham, like in the US. * Pacing was well executed. WHAT DIDN'T WORK: * Clipping. I hate it when matches like this are clipped. * Misawa's Hogan-esque comeback and spotty selling. * Again, expectations. Although this is an awesome match, and each of their bouts was a building experience leading to 6-3, I just want more. ****1/2
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