5 Best Wrestling Matches of 2004

4. Kenta Kobashi vs. Yoshihiro Takayama – NOAH, April 25, 2004

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hL1DCrq1Ww

Yoshihiro Takayama is famous for being arguably the biggest damage sponge in Japan. He is known for being able to take an incredible amount of punishment, especially after his legendary fight with MMA star Don Frye. So when the massive (by Japanese standards) Takayama challenged then-world champion Kenta Kobashi, things looked bleak for the champion.

Takayama not only used his size to his advantage, but he also used a great strategy. He attacked both Kobashi’s lariat arm and his legs, making it impossible for Kobashi to use his lariat effectively. It was also extremely difficult for Kobashi to use any of his signature power moves and suplexes to full effect because had almost no leg strength.

But Kobashi was resourceful, if nothing else. He fought incredibly hard and the crowd went nuts as Kobashi fought upwards and tried to overcome the mountain that was Takayama. But since his main moves were useless, Kobashi had to use a move he hadn’t used in years owing to his many, many knee surgeries. People didn’t think he’d have the guts to do it, but he did. Kobashi hit his trademark moonsault from the top rope, which sent the crowd into an absolute frenzy.

I have never heard a Japanese crowd erupt that fast and that loud. That’s how much they loved Kobashi here, for he was the embodiment of Burning Spirit and determination, and overcame insurmountable odds to retain his precious championship.