Baba draws with the "Human Power Plant", Bruno Sammartino
(December 1972)
On the evening of October 22nd, the first round of the All-Japan Pro-Giant Series took place at Nihon University Auditorium in Ryogoku, Tokyo, where the fateful showdown between Baba and Sammartino took place. Moreover, the head of professional wrestling (the Momota family) had put the world heavyweight championship belt on the line for this match, a prize that could be said to be in keeping with the great footsteps of the late Rikidozan.
With the match tied at 1-1, Sammartino attempted a powerful bearhug from behind, but Baba surprised him by kicking the corner post, resulting in a rare no-decision decision for both wrestlers, with the championship belt still up for grabs.
(Audience: 6,100)
Picture blurbs
Referee Higuchi judged that both Baba and Sammartino's shoulders where on the ground. Both Baba and Sammartino vehemently protested the decision, but Higuchi wasn't going to change it. Baba repeatedly got out of tight spots (from bear hugs) with his deadly head punch, and ear chops.
These two unstoppable warriors threw away all shame and prestige in a show of rough fighting. After Baba lands an illegal kick to the back of Sammartino's head, and then the two hustle, fighting over a table to use as a weapon.
Baba pulled out his "family heirloom" move, the 16 mon kick, which he hadn't done for quite a while. He also did his off the top rope move, "Human Torpedo"
Baba introduced a submission move, which appeared to be a modified Cobra twist.
Notes
Human Power Plant: A phrase created with Japanese teenagers in mind, conveys the message that each individual should take action on their own, rather than relying on others
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