UWF Newborn –“Osaka Super Bout”
December 22nd, 1988
Osaka-jō Hall
Osaka, Japan
Attendance: 16,000 (sold out)
The WOWOW broadcast goes live and starts with Bob Backlund giving a taped interview on camera. Backlund says that he was attracted to UWF because of the scientific style, which he enjoys. “It’s science, it’s knowledge, it’s conditioning and it is what I want to be involved in,” Backlund says that UWF is what wrestling should be all about. Next, the UWF theme plays over clips of previous matches over the past six months, recapping all the action. Then we get Tekken-esque title cards as each match for tonight’s card is announced by the voice of Ward Sexton (of Resident Evil and RINGS fame). The WOWOW commentary crew welcomes the viewing audience to the show and they hype up the historic evening. They highlight the main event, Akira Maeda facing off against Volk Han, the debut of Victor Zangiev and Salman Hashimikov against the Koslowski brothers, and the clash between Olympic gold medalists Aleksandr Karelin and David Gobejishvili. They also discuss the Brazilian Vale Tudo exhibition between Marco Ruas and Casemiro “Rei Zulu” Martins.
The crowd is treated to a nice light show before Nobuyuki Furuta, the ring announcer, stands in the ring and opens the proceedings by introducing all the competitors to the ring one by one. As usual, there are loud pops for Akira Maeda, Nobuhiko Takada, Satoru Sayama, and Yoshiaki Fujiwara. Bob Backlund gets a great reception as well. The Soviet newcomers get solid welcomes as well, and the Koslowski brothers seem to be gaining new fans with each passing month.
Akira Maeda grabs the microphone and thanks all the fans in the jam-packed arena for coming to close out the year. Maeda says tonight will be a culmination of a year’s worth of hard work to re-launch the UWF revolution and expand “real wrestling” across the globe while attracting new talent to Japan. Maeda thanks the Soviet Sports Committee for allowing their great athletes to compete and says he looks forward to facing his opponent, Volk Han, tonight. Takada speaks next and says he is eager to prove himself against Bob Backlund and promises a great show for the fans. Sayama and Fujiwara are also allowed to speak. Sayama says that he will continue to work hard to become the best wrestler in UWF and that he looks forward to the new year with his Shooto trainees. Backlund speaks last and says that he has a lot of respect for Takada and looks forward to facing him tonight. Backlund says that his respect for Takada won’t get in the way of him defeating him and proving he is the better wrestler.
Wayne Shamrock vs Erik Paulson
The two young American upstarts meet for the first time and both are right out of the blocks. Paulson immediately begins to shoot for a double-leg takedown, but Shamrock sprawls on the canvas and locks up with Paulson. Shamrock deals with his determined opponent as the quicker Paulson moves to find good positioning while Shamrock attempts to avoid danger. The crowd is quite pleased by the opening display of grappling and counterwork by both, and Paulson finally settles for side control as he attempts to stretch out Shamrock’s arm from the other side. Shamrock struggles to break free at first but eventually makes things more difficult for Paulson and a period of stalemate gets Yuji Shimada to stand both up. Shamrock delivers a bit of a warning shot to his opponent with a stiff palm strike, which is heard by the crowd, and their vocal approval follows afterward. Paulson realizes trading shots with Shamrock isn’t the best idea at the moment, and attempts to lock up with Shamrock for a clinch. Paulson tries to get some Muay Thai knee strikes going, but Shamrock does well to block and hooks Paulson’s leg, taking him back down to the canvas.
More grappling takes place on the mat, and this time Shamrock appears to get the better of Paulson as he successfully slows down his opponent’s emphasis on quicker transitions, keeping him in place as Shamrock looks for his openings. Paulson turtles up as Shamrock attempts to go for a rear-naked choke, and rolls over to the nearby ropes for a rope break. Shamrock builds some momentum from this and continues to apply pressure on Paulson as they engage in another striking exchange. Paulson tries to hold his own against the stronger Shamrock, but is sent back to the canvas by his opponent with a German suplex! Paulson manages to put up a fight here and sends Shamrock to the ropes with a kimura lock attempt, but Shamrock soon re-establishes his lead at 1-0 with a heel hook near the ropes, and Paulson grabs them again to break the hold. Paulson attempts to cut down Shamrock with a series of sharp kicks, but Shamrock manages to catch one of them for a single-leg takedown and eventually finds his way to a mounted guillotine choke. Paulson struggles to break free and chooses to tap after a respectable battle with his opponent. The crowd gives both men a firm round of applause for the engaging opening contest. Shamrock defeats Paulson via submission (mounted guillotine choke), 10:33
Masakatsu Funaki vs Minoru Suzuki
Sensing the need to follow up from the last match, Funaki and Suzuki bring a ton of energy from the opening bell. They manage to get the crowd going again with another great display of grappling on the canvas, with both using great counterwork to block each other’s attempts at finding an opening. After Shimada stands both up after they end up near the ropes, Suzuki decides to mix things up as they engage in a striking contest. Suzuki delivers a series of palm strikes and surprises Funaki with a sudden drop kick. Funaki bounces off the ropes as he stumbles and Suzuki catches him for an early overhead belly-to-belly suplex. Suzuki continues the early momentum as he gets the advantage while grappling with Funaki on the canvas, sending his opponent to the ropes twice and getting a 1-0 lead on points after Funaki escapes a kneebar attempt. Funaki brushes himself off and readjusts his strategy, aiming to slow down Suzuki a bit with some clever strikes. Suzuki is caught by a spinning backhand and stumbles to the ground as Shimada begins the first 10 count of the match. Suzuki gets himself up early but is immediately greeted again by another barrage of strikes from Funaki. It doesn’t take long for Funaki to score another knockdown, and Suzuki finds himself in a world of hurt as Yuji Shimada begins another ten count. Suzuki beats the count again, but Funaki has regained control of the match and begins to slow down Suzuki’s quick transitions on the canvas. Suzuki does his best to fight back and manages to land a rolling kick on Funaki, but Funaki refuses to give way and wins another grappling exchange with Suzuki. This time, Funaki manages to lock in a Gotch toe-hold and Suzuki is tangled up as Funaki has his legs caught in a knot while applying the hold. Suzuki is urged on by the crowd to struggle for the ropes but he can’t reach them before his body tells him to tap. Suzuki shakes Funaki’s hand afterward but is visibly frustrated as Funaki has been able to defeat him once again. While these two are similar in age, Funaki’s experience in the ring at this stage might just give him the edge. Funaki defeats Suzuki via submission (Gotch toe-hold), 10:21
Joe Malenko vs Osamu Kido
Joe Malenko, a talented grappler with close ties to Karl Gotch, is welcomed to UWF by a solid reception from the crowd, and Osamu Kido is greeted by a similar welcome as two Gotch-trained disciples square off in the first meeting between the two technicians since the original UWF in 1984-1985. Malenko was even billed as “Karl Gotch Jr” in the UWA in Mexico. Now he seeks to prove himself against an opponent he highly respects. Kido and Gotch engage in an early grappling contest that isn’t as quick as the Funaki-Suzuki scrambles in the match before, but there is an emphasis on finesse that the UWF crowd appreciates and they watch intently as Kido and Malenko feel each other out in the first few minutes. Malenko catches Kido with a wrist-lock takedown and quickly gets on top of his opponent as he works for a cross-armbreaker. Kido holds his own and prevents Malenko from locking in his arm before rolling into a defensive posture as Malenko finds himself on his back. They choose to continue the match on the canvas, and Malenko appears to be more dangerous at this stage but Kido slowly settles into the match and begins to utilize a defensive strategy as Malenko is more eager to apply offensive pressure. They trade rope breaks throughout the next few minutes, and both manage to score a point each as the match evolves into a more back-and-forth affair.
Malenko begins to look for Kido’s legs a bit more often and attempts a heel hook near the ropes as he reverses a double wrist-lock attempt from his opponent. Kido rolls near the ropes though, and Yuji Shimada stands the two back up for the first time after several minutes. Kido and Malenko spend very little time trying to engage in a striking contest, and Kido immediately clinches with Malenko to get him back to the canvas with a leg sweep. Malenko continues to give Kido some trouble with some clever reversals on the canvas, as his counterwork is calculated and aims to capitalize on Kido’s defensive approach. Malenko gets a Judo-esque sweeping takedown on Kido and attempts a north-south shoulder lock, which forces Kido to go for the ropes again. After the rope break, Malenko locks up Kido for a variant of the capture suplex or a single-leg hook suplex. He quickly gets Kido to go for the ropes again with a heel hook attempt.
With a 2-1 lead, Malenko becomes a bit bolder with his strategy and begins to focus on trying to get Kido in position for more throwing techniques. Kido senses an opening and reverses an attempt from Malenko, sweeping his leg down for a takedown which he then reverses into a kneebar. Malenko does well to prevent Kido from applying too much pressure and finds a way out. Sensing a need to get more creative with his opponent, Kido grapples with Malenko and finds the positioning needed for his patented Kido clutch. Instead of pinning his opponent though, Kido captures one of Malenko’s legs with his own and applies enough pressure as he turns the reverse side roll cradle into a type of leg-lock crank. The pretzel-like submission is enough to get Malenko to tell Shimada he’s had enough. The bell sounds and Kido gets up to celebrate his victory as the crowd chants Kido’s name for his first victory in the new UWF. Kido defeats Malenko via submission (reverse side roll leg-crank), 13:43
Andrei Kopylov vs Yoshiaki Fujiwara
UWF’s fans in Osaka-jō Hall get their first glimpse of the influx of Soviet talent as Andrei Kopylov makes his way to the ring wearing black knee-length tights. Nobuyuki Furuta announces him in the ring as a “Soviet heavyweight SAMBO champion” and the crowd gives a firm round of applause for the mysterious newcomer. Fujiwara, of course, comes out to a much louder reception as he looks to defeat a potentially dangerous opponent to close the year and cement his place in UWF as a top guy with Sayama, Maeda, and Takada. The bell sounds and the fans immediately get a taste of Kopylov’s unique style as he immediately begins to look for unique leg lock entries, forcing Fujiwara to utilize his expert defense to keep the Russian at bay. Fujiwara manages to ground the bold Kopylov and tentatively engages in a brief grappling exchange with his opponent, but Kopylov nearly snatches Fujiwara into a triangle choke and Fujiwara quickly chooses to back off as Kopylov stands up with the crowd murmuring at Kopylov’s display so far. Kopylov demonstrates his striking ability with several hard kicks and well-timed open-hand strikes, but Fujiwara fires back and gives Kopylov a stiff slap across the face as a welcome to the UWF. The crowd swells as Fujiwara gives a slight smirk on his face.
Fujiwara doesn’t seem too worried about grappling with Kopylov again, and the two find themselves on the canvas with both looking for leg lock attempts. Fujiwara shows off his defense as Kopylov struggles to get any leverage despite being able to draw in one of Fujiwara’s legs. Fujiwara rolls over and appears to get the better of Kopylov as he grasps one of the Russian’s legs for a kneebar attempt. Kopylov is quick to scramble for the ropes behind him and gets an early rope break as Fujiwara signals to the cheering crowd celebrating Fujiwara’s early point on the SAMBO champion. Kopylov has more tricks up his sleeve though, and throws a few open hand strikes as a decoy for a clever leg lock entry, which forces Fujiwara backward onto the canvas. Kopylov quickly gets a double-cross heel hook, and Fujiwara does his best to decrease the leverage Kopylov has on the hold, but the Soviet manages to send Fujiwara to the ropes for his first point.
Kopylov’s unique approach to submissions has given Fujiwara more than he could ask for, but the experienced veteran continues to use his defensive smarts to reverse some of Kopylov’s slicker grappling moves for his own. Kopylov and Fujiwara have a bit of a leglock battle as they try to look for opportunities to hook their opponent’s joints. They trade some more rope breaks to tie the match at 1-1 heading into the 10:00 mark. With both standing back up, Kopylov fires off some more palm strikes but Fujiwara blocks them and clinches with Kopylov as he attempts a double-underhook suplex on the Russian. Kopylov manages to escape and finds his way to Fujiwara’s back, lifting the firm crowd favorite for a backdrop driver variant as Kopylov drives Fujiwara’s head into the canvas. The move impresses the crowd and one might have assumed Fujiwara would need to shake off some cobwebs after that, but the veteran gets up and sticks his tongue out to Kopylov, who answers with a combo of palm strikes. Fujiwara catches Kopylov’s arm and locks up his wrist. The Russian doesn’t have much time to react as Fujiwara drags him in for several headbutts, which drops Kopylov to the canvas. Shimada begins a 10 count and Kopylov is a bit slow to get back up. Kopylov tries to pull himself up by the nearest ropes, but he is too late and Shimada finishes the count. Fujiwara celebrates his victory after Shimada signals for the bell. Kopylov has earned Fujiwara’s respect though, and the two shake hands before Fujiwara raises Kopylov’s arm for the crowd. Both get a firm round of applause and chants for Fujiwara’s name ring out from the Osaka crowd. Fujiwara defeats Kopylov via KO, 14:11
Satoru Sayama vs Kazuo Yamazaki
Sayama seeks to recover after his shock loss to Yorinaga Nakamura last month. Sayama faces another student of his, this time it’ll be Kazuo Yamazaki and he presents another formidable challenge for the Shooto founder. Yamazaki immediately dishes it out to his former teacher, showing off well-timed kicks as Sayama immediately has to play defense to prevent Yamazaki from doing too much damage. The crowd is treated to a great striking battle as Sayama and Yamazaki lay it on each other. It doesn’t appear anyone has the advantage until Sayama knocks down Yamazaki with a combination of jumping roundhouse kicks. The crowd continues to be very lively as Yamazaki beats the 10 count, and answers back with fierce palm strikes before clincing with Sayama to deliver several knee strikes. Sayama prevents himself from falling to the canvas and gets Yamazaki in a standing guillotine to get him to the mat and slow him down. They don’t spend much time here as Yamazaki chooses to continue a striking contest, and Sayama follows suit as they trade knockdowns until the match is tied at 4-4, closing into the 13:00 mark. The crowd seems to be behind Sayama, but Yamazaki’s underdog approach to this match is winning a few of them over, and appears to be emboldened as he takes Sayama into a clinch again, and delivers a few sharp knee strikes into Sayama’s skull. Sayama is a bit shell-shocked and struggles to hold on as he fires a few timid palm strikes back at Yamazaki. Yamazaki grabs Sayama’s leg as he attempts to get a Tiger Spin going, and Yamazaki smacks him with a sharp palm strike right between the eyes. Sayama collapses to the canvas and the crowd is shocked once again as another former student of Sayama has defeated their old teacher. Yamazaki celebrates his win as a few of his fans let their excitement become known. Sayama is treated by Ryogaku Wada and shakes Yamazaki’s hand after he finds his footing again. While Sayama could be pleased with his return to UWF so far, closing out the year with back-to-back losses is perhaps not what he envisioned. Yamazaki couldn’t be more pleased with himself and soaks in the moment a bit more. Yamazaki defeats Sayama via TKO, 15:07
Similar to the Onita vs Aoyagi match from October, the following “Vale Tudo” exhibition will be contested under Vale Tudo rules, which means closed fists to all parts of the body will be allowed, and the traditional UWF scoring system will not apply during the match. The only way either competitor can win is by knockout or submission. There will be a 15-minute time limit. Nobuyuki Furuta explains the rules to the crowd before introducing the competitors.
Vale Tudo exhibition: Marco Ruas vs Casemiro “Rei Zulu” Martins
With things underway, Marco Ruas and Casemiro Martins come out to a somewhat curious reception from the crowd. Casemiro, standing at 6’3 is a bit taller than his opponent and his muscular frame stands in contrast to the leaner Ruas, who is in excellent shape and clearly has a focus on extreme conditioning. Ruas and Martins square off after the bell sounds, and they choose to open the contest with a grappling exchange. Ruas quickly tries to hook Casemiro’s legs with his own and goes for a takedown, getting his opponent to the canvas with an excellent display of technique. Casemiro quickly goes into guard as Ruas attempts to hook one of his opponent’s legs, but deals with kicking motions instead. Ruas tries to change his approach, but Casemiro uses his strength and slows down Ruas by grabbing him with his arms. Casemiro seems to be bear-hugging his opponent on the canvas, and Ruas slowly tries to work his way out by using closed fists on Casemiro’s kidney sections. The punches don’t seem to deter Casemiro at first, but Ruas eventually fights his way out of the vice-like grip and gets back onto his feet. Casemiro stands back up with him and immediately begins to throw punches, getting the crowd into the match more as Ruas skillfully dodges. Ruas fires back with sharp low kicks, attempting to weaken his larger foe by aiming for his thighs and shins. Casemiro does a little dance for the crowd, demonstrating that Ruas’ strikes aren’t affecting him much. The fans enjoy the little showmanship from Casemiro, who hits Ruas with a thrust kick afterward.
Casemiro closes the distance on Ruas, who tries to throw a few punches to keep the distance, but “Rei Zulu” manages to clinch with Ruas and locks in another bear-hug before managing to send Ruas backward with an excellent belly-to-belly suplex! Ruas is sent back to the canvas, this time on his back. Casemiro tries to use his larger frame to keep Ruas pinned, but Ruas uses his legs to break up Casemiro’s positioning and attempts to get a triangle choke going, but can’t hook his legs in time as Casemiro re-adjusts himself and manages to force Ruas into a guard. There’s more of a focus on grappling again as Ruas shows off some great Lutra Livre techniques to get Casemiro moving. Marco Ruas is clever in his approach as he threatens to hook Casemiro’s legs several times over the next few minutes, but Casemiro’s strength allows him to escape each time. Perhaps smartly, Casemiro uses the ropes to his advantage and there is nothing illegal about this. Both fighters stand back up, and trade punches. Both manage to land a few of them, and Ruas hits a sharp one on Casemiro, and “Rei Zulu” stumbles backward as Ruas throws more kicks. Casemiro comes right back at Ruas and clinches with him again as Ruas attempts to break the hold. Ruas is sent through the air again, this time with a unique suplex variation from Casemiro and Ruas’ head appears to hit the canvas first. Somehow, this doesn’t knock Casemiro’s opponent out cold as he gets back up with Motoyuki Kitazawa signaling if Ruas is okay to continue. Ruas smiles and gives the thumbs up, as he immediately goes back into Casemiro’s reach and attempts a double-leg takedown. Casemiro is caught off balance and falls to the canvas as Ruas looks for another leg submission. Casemiro is saved the bell, however, and both competitors are applauded by the crowd who appreciated a very rare glimpse into the world of the Brazilian Vale Tudo by two competitors native to the country.
Casemiro does another dance for the appreciative crowd as he raises his hands into the air, and Ruas gets a warm reception as well after he raises his own. After some discussion amongst the judges, the match is declared a draw. The WOWOW commentators talk about how unique both fighters are and how it is a historic first for a Japanese organization to host a contest like this. Both Casemiro and Marco Ruas are given commemorative plaques by Billy Robinson and pose for pictures before leaving the ring. 15:00 draw
Nobuyuki Furuta breaks down the rules of the “Soviet wrestling exhibition,” explaining that this will be contested under special rules presided over by executives of the Soviet Sports Committee. All striking techniques will be prohibited. All grappling and throwing techniques deemed legal under Freestyle and Greco-Roman rules are allowed, and suplex maneuvers are also legal. The time limit will be a single 10-minute round, and points will be awarded based on a combination of factors both in Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, including pins and clean throws. A maximum of five points can be awarded over a single technique. A clean pin under Greco-Roman or Freestyle rules will also be awarded with five points. After the rules are explained, ceremonial music is played as Soviet officials dressed in uniform are greeted to the ring by Billy Robinson, who is dressed in his red jacket. Robinson awards one of the representatives a ceremonial plaque as Nobuyuki Furuta explains that UWF Newborn is presenting the Soviet Sports Committee a special commemorative gift to celebrate the unifying power of sport and the new partnership between athletes of the Soviet Union and UWF Newborn. The Soviet officials are then seated at ringside.
Soviet wrestling exhibition: Aleksandr Karelin vs David Gobejishvili
Both wrestlers are introduced and the crowd has notable excitement for both. With the broadcast camera following from backstage, Aleksandr Karelin, dressed in his Soviet tracksuit, comes out to “For Whom the Bell Tolls” by Metallica as the 6’3 mountain of a man makes his way into a very excited Osaka-jō Hall, and several fans who are seated at ringside reach out to touch the Olympic gold medalist as he is quickly rushed to ringside by his cornermen and arena security. David Gobejishvili comes out next to a similar reception. Motoyuki Kitazawa has the honor of refereeing this match and checks both men to see if they are ready before the bell rings. With both giving the signal, Kitazawa calls for the bell and the crowd swells as both Soviet wrestling gold medalists face off in a historic first. It becomes apparent that even the 6’7 Gobejishvili (in a blue singlet) is rivaled by the pure muscular frame of Karelin (in a red singlet). Karelin grapples with his Georgian opponent, using his favored Greco-Roman approach. Karelin measures up David, and they trade feints and cursory grappling attempts before Karelin locks up David with an upper-body Greco-Roman hold. Karelin appears to have David in a bind, as even the 6’7 Georgian has trouble breaking Karelin’s grip. David is finally able to wrestle out of Karelin’s grasp and shoots for Karelin’s legs, sensing that is where his opponent is the weakest due to stylistic differences. Karelin impresses the crowd with great sprawling ability and easily avoids David’s early takedown attempt as Karelin reasserts his strength on his opponent and applies another Greco-Roman hold to keep him standing.
Karelin attempts to muscle David to the mat on his stomach, but the Georgian resists and grabs one of Karelin’s legs. Despite Karelin’s strength so far, David gets his opponent off balance and scores a single-leg takedown as Karelin lands on his stomach. David scores a single point from this move and the match is now 1-0 in favor of the Georgian. Kitazawa resets the match as the two Soviet gold medalists face off in the center of the ring again. David tries to keep a lower profile this time and keeps low to try and beat Karelin’s preferred upper-body approach while shooting for his legs, where he isn’t used to defending. Karelin does well to pull back just in time to avoid another takedown and gets David on his knees as muscles his opponent down and takes control of his back. With David’s back exposed, Karelin grabs his waist and rolls him over on the canvas. Karelin gets a point for this maneuver and the match is now tied at 1-1. With another reset, the two are positioned back in the center of the ring and resume the contest. David immediately shoots for Karelin’s legs again and wraps both legs with his arms, Karelin does well to remain standing, using his lower-body strength to keep his footing while grappling David from the waist. The Georgian finally trips up Karelin as he uses his strength to lift his opponent, and Karelin is seated on the canvas while David ties up both of his legs. David attempts to retain control of these limbs while trying to force Karelin on his back, but Karelin, of course, is too strong and both have somewhat of a free-flowing grappling exchange on the canvas with both showing off their refined wrestling abilities. They both end up getting a point each as they exchange positioning on their stomachs. After the exchange, there is a reset and it is now 2-2 apiece.
With 5 minutes now gone, David looks to pick up the pace a bit and Karelin does well to keep him at bay as they try to trade for dominant positioning on their feet. Karelin’s strong grip makes David think once or twice as he tries to get his hands on him. David shoots for the legs again, but Karelin has a good feint and avoids another takedown attempt from the Georgian. They grapple some more, and as fatigue begins to set in, neither can get anything going. Karelin finally works his way for another upper-body Greco-Roman hold, but David fights fire with fire and applies a similar hold on Karelin as they grip each other like fighting bears. Showing off his experience, David somehow gets enough leverage on Karelin and twists his opponent around off his feet, and Karelin lands on his stomach again as David appears to get a clean three-point throw/takedown on Karelin and is awarded three points to take the match to 5-2 in the Georgian’s favor. The crowd applauds as Karelin gets back on his feet and rolls his elbows, perhaps trying to relax himself as the Freestyle gold medalist looks to be in the driver’s seat.
Both wrestlers take their time, and neither commits too much as they tentatively grapple again in the center of the ring. David especially relies on more of a defensive stance to protect his lead, and Karelin tries to figure out a way to attack his opponent and get the points needed to get back into the match. Karelin focuses on David’s upper body again and begins to muscle through David’s defense, working his way to David’s waist as he attempts to get some leverage on his taller opponent. Despite attempting to keep a smaller profile again, Karelin manages to find David’s back and begins to apply pressure through his grip as he wraps both arms around David. David puts up a decent struggle as he attempts to break his opponent’s grip with his hands, but Karelin finally spins him around and gets him on the canvas. David does well to stay on a knee as he avoids being exposed completely on the canvas. Karelin, sensing the time ticking down, puts all of his remaining strength into the next move as he retains control of David’s back through the waist. In an impressive display of pure strength, Karelin lifts David in a gutwrench and throws all 240+ pounds of the Georgian backward. Perhaps out of fatigue, Karelin doesn’t get the “grand amplitude” needed to score all five points as dictated by Greco-Roman scoring rules, but it is enough to get him the three points to tie the match.
Time expires after Karelin finishes off the maneuver and both wrestlers are applauded by the crowd for the fine display of both styles of Olympic wrestling. They return to their respective corners and await the official result. The final score of 5-5 is confirmed by the Soviet judges, although perhaps some in the crowd felt Karelin should have gotten a higher score as some chants for his name break out. The WOWOW commentators seem convinced he should have won as well, but both David Gobejishvili and Aleksandr Karelin embrace each other and shake hands as the ring announcer declares the match a draw. Afterward, both Karelin and Gobejishvili are awarded ceremonial plaques by Billy Robinson, and all three pose for a few pictures in the center of the ring along with representatives of the Soviet Sports Committee. 10:00 draw (score: 5-5)
Dennis Koslowski/Duane Koslowski vs Salman Hashimikov/Victor Zangiev
Hashimikov and Zangiev, the burly Soviet wrestlers dressed in blue singlets, make their way into Osaka-jō Hall. They make their way to the ring as fans look on with curiosity. The Koslowski brothers, perhaps being a better-known commodity, come out to a louder reception as the Americans are dressed in red singlets. There is an audible interest in this match from the audience as the wrestlers are introduced by Furuta in the ring. The WOWOW commentators build up the decorated amateur history of Hashimikov and how both Zangiev and Hashimikov were unfortunate to miss the Olympics in 1980 and 1984. They also discuss how all four could have met if it wasn’t for circumstances outside of their control. After both teams choose their first competitor, the bell rings and the highly anticipated tag match is underway with Duane Koslowski and Salman Hashimikov squaring off.
Both of them grapple with each other, testing each other’s strength with upper-body holds. Hashimikov immediately makes the danger he poses in the ring clear by lifting Duane Koslowski for a well-executed belly-to-belly suplex. Hashimikov immediately looks for a key-lock as Duane figures out how to defend himself from the barrel-chested Chechen. Duane struggles as Hashimikov begins to lock in the hold and apply more pressure. Duane is finally able to slip to hide side and break the hold, but this doesn’t allow him to escape Hashimikov’s grasp who immediately drags up Duane by his side for a side suplex variant. The crowd gets amped up by Hashimikov’s display of strength and Duane has to defend from his back again as Hashimikov re-establishes side-control. Hashimikov once again goes for a simple but effective key-lock hold, and this time Duane goes for the ropes with his leg to break the hold, giving him a chance to get back on his feet for a clean break.
Duane and Hashimikov lock up again, and Duane this time manages to hold his ground as he shoots for a double-leg takedown after a brief struggle in the center of the ring. Hashimikov is thrown off balance by Duane’s speed and technique and tries to deter Duane as the American looks for a leg hook. Duane tries to get a kneebar attempt dialed in, but Hashimikov’s large legs present enough of a problem to slow Duane down, and the two end up scrambling on the canvas as they test each other’s grappling abilities before standing back up. Duane tags in his brother, and Hashimikov tags in Zangiev.
Zangiev, just like his partner, is chomping at the bit and immediately engages with Dennis Koslowski. Zangiev shows off great technique as he easily fights through Dennis’ grip and finds his back. Dennis quickly shows off fine skills as well and gets Zangiev with a spinning rear-leg takedown. Zangiev turtles up as Dennis attempts to take his back on his canvas, and the two scramble before Zangiev escapes and gets back on his feet. The crowd signals their approval of the great display of wrestling so far. Dennis and Zangiev lock up again, and this time Zangiev gets his American opponent with a drop arm-throw takedown. Zangiev attempts to get a quick kimura lock as Dennis is on his side, but the American quickly reaches for the ropes to cause a break. Neither wastes too much time as they resume grappling, and Dennis spins through Zangiev’s grip again for another rear-leg takedown. The American Greco-Roman specialist quickly takes Zangiev’s back for a rear-naked choke attempt, but the Soviet Freestylist fights through it and works his way back to his feet. There’s another grappling scramble on the canvas before Zangiev can hit Dennis with a low-angle Fireman’s carry that he quickly turns into an inverted Fujiwara armbar. Dennis goes for the ropes to break the submission attempt and chooses to tag in Duane after getting back up.
Duane and Zangiev have a bit of a back-and-forth, with both showcasing their technical ability and mastery of various suplex variations. Zangiev hits a beautiful overhead suplex on Duane, and this causes the American to take his time to get back up, as the referee begins the first ten count of the match. Knowing that both he and his brother are now down one point each, Duane takes it to Zangiev and clinches with him to set up a powerful German suplex. Duane quickly moves to snag a kneebar on the Russian, and Zangiev reaches for his second rope break so far in the match and the Americans finally get on the board. Zangiev chooses to tag back in Hashimikov and the Chechen immediately locks up with Duane. The pace of the match picks up even more as Hashimikov and Duane Koslowski push each other to their respective limits. Hashimikov begins to slow down Duane as he uses his strength to hit a belly-to-back suplex on Duane and pins him to the mat as he attempts to lock in a rear-naked choke. Duane has no choice but to go for the ropes again for another break and decides to tag Dennis back in to catch a breather. Dennis, perhaps realizing Hashimikov is a little stronger than he is, chooses to go for finesse instead of power as he attempts to keep Hashimikov on the ground and attempts various submissions as Hashimikov relies on counterwork to avoid being eliminated. Dennis gets the better of Hashimikov here and sends the Chechen to the ropes for the first time after attempting an Achilles hold. Hashimikov goes for the tag, and Zangiev faces off with Dennis Koslowski once again. Both end up on the canvas as they grapple with each other, and Dennis gets a simple leg scissors on Zangiev’s neck, perhaps inadvertently. Zangiev uses a flashy and creative way of escaping this, as he twists his body around and shows off his athleticism for the crowd.
All four competitors continue a very good technical contest as very little striking shows up here, choosing to go for grappling, suplexes, and other throwing techniques instead. Duane gets one back on Zangiev after hitting a gutwrench suplex on the Russian, and Zangiev faces a ten count after appearing a bit dazed on the canvas. Both teams are now down to their last point respectively, with all four facing elimination. The crowd begins to chant for Duane as he manages to clinch with a Zangiev and throws him with another sweet Judo takedown before going for a cross-armbreaker. Zangiev is desperate to escape and goes for the ropes, without realizing he is down to his last break attempt as well. Zangiev exhausts his final rope break, and his last point, and is now eliminated from the match. Hashimikov will now have to face both Koslowski brothers on his own!
For the Chechen however, this isn’t a problem as he impresses the crowd with his strength and powerful suplexes on both Dennis and Duane Koslowski. Dennis falls victim first, as Salman Hashimikov lifts him on his back for a Water Wheel drop! Dennis hits the canvas hard and doesn’t respond to the referee as Motoyuki Kitazawa tries to get a signal from him. A knockdown is declared and Dennis is now eliminated after his last point is deducted. Duane and Hashimikov now face each other to determine the winning team. There’s another back-and-forth exchange and neither wrestler refuses to give up, with Hashimikov and Duane both looking quite strong as they trade belly-to-belly suplexes. The 30-minute time limit begins to approach, forcing more urgency between the two wrestlers. There’s another scramble on the canvas as Duane tries to end the match with his submission techniques, but Hashimikov somehow gets him on his shoulder and stands up, hoisting the American on his back for another Water Wheel drop to a very impressed crowd. Duane lands on his back and Hashimikov gets a cross-armbreaker locked in near the center of the ring, giving Duane no choice but to tap! Hashimikov and Zangiev are the winners and the two Russians celebrate as Nobuyuki Furuta makes the result official. The Koslowskis and Zangiev/Hashimikov have a brief staredown, but they eventually shake hands and choose sportsmanship over any political rivalries that may exist. The crowd applauds both teams. The WOWOW commentary team discusses the strengths of both teams while highlighting how impressive Zangiev and Hashimikov looked tonight with both teams pushing each other to the time limit. Victor Zangiev and Salman Hashimikov defeat Duane and Dennis Koslowski (cross-armbreaker), 28:31
Volk Han vs Akira Maeda
Volk Han makes his way to the ring to a concert version of Jean-Michel Jarre’s “Second Rendez-vous” as the Dagestani “Command SAMBO” specialist is dressed in light blue full-length tights with kickpads. Akira Maeda comes out next to the usual sound of Camel’s ‘Captured” and the Osaka crowd welcomes their hometown hero with a full-throated chant of his name to the song’s cadence. Nobuyuki Furuta introduces both competitors in the ring, announcing Volk Han as a “Command SAMBO master” from the Soviet Union. The curious crowd gives a light but warm welcome to the newcomer. There’s another thunderous ovation for Akira Maeda as he is introduced in the ring, and we are underway as the bell sounds to start the bout.
The lanky 6’3 Dagestani opens the proceedings with quick, cat-like reflexes as he delivers several quick palm strikes. Maeda appears to be caught off guard a bit but doesn’t seem to be affected either. Maeda tests Han with several sharp low kicks while Han continues to feel his opponent out with palm strikes. Volk Han mixes in some occasional kicks to throw Maeda off, but largely focuses on the early test of keeping Maeda within reach. They clinch up near the ropes, and the referee breaks them up as Volk Han is pushed into them. Afterward, the Dagestani grappler applies more pressure on Maeda as he throws more strikes. Maeda has one of his wrists grabbed by Han, who establishes wrist control for a flashy flying armbar that pops the crowd with the brilliant display of technique. Maeda is caught off guard by the move as Han tries to lock in a cross-armbreaker after the takedown, and the Osaka hero uses an early rope break to get the Command SAMBO specialist off his tail.
After the two stand back up, Han catches Maeda with an open-hand strike as the two continue to test each other’s reach. Maeda mixes in more kicking combos as he throws in the occasional mid-kick and high kick, which puts Volk Han on his backfoot. As Volk Han looks for an angle to attack, Maeda leaves one of his wrists open again, allowing Han to gain wrist control again, and this time he uses it for a low-angle kani-basami (leg takedown) entry. Maeda quickly tries to adjust his legs as Han attempts to snatch a leg hook, and the two struggle with each other to gain the dominant positioning before rolling near one of the ropes, forcing a clean break from the Motoyuki Kitazawa, the referee for this match. The crowd seems impressed by Volk Han so far, who has been utilizing an interesting strategy against the fan favorite.
Maeda, despite being caught by his wrist twice, doesn’t seem to be too afraid to grapple with Han as the two clinch in the middle of the ring. Han tries to create separation by using a few strikes, but Maeda locks in his opponent for a snap sideways suplex and moves diligently for a cross-armbreaker attempt. Volk Han rolls through this and moves to gain control of Maeda’s legs again as he looks for a slick kneebar. Maeda tries to roll over, but Volk Han gets the submission attempt locked, and Maeda has to go for the ropes again, giving Volk Han a 1-0 lead on points. The Osaka crowd seems to be anxious as the Soviet SAMBO champion seems to have Maeda where he wants him. Maeda picks up the pace and throws some sharp kicks at Han, but Maeda’s opponent catches one of these kicks and sweeps Maeda off his other foot. They end up on the canvas again and grapple to gain superiority for a leg-lock attempt. Han manages to get in a cross-heel hold near the ropes, and it is close enough to cause the referee to call for a clean break.
Volk Han fights through a brief palm strike combo from Maeda, and gains control of Maeda’s wrist again, forcing him in a downward motion while kicking his leg as a distraction. With Maeda in a guillotine hold, Volk Han goes for a snap suplex that almost looks like a snap DDT. Maeda’s head is driven into the canvas to the gasps of the crowd, and Han attempts to establish side control on Maeda, forcing his opponent to go for the ropes. Maeda seems to be a bit dazzled by his creative foe and is forced back by a thrust kick from Han. Han grapples with his opponent again and attempts to set up another suplex attempt, but Maeda finally gets the better of his opponent here and lands a very nice belly-to-belly suplex. Maeda wrestles for side control on Han before opting to go for his opponent’s legs, while the Dagestani struggles to break free from Maeda’s grasp as he looks for a submission hook. The two are entangled as they look for different leg hooks. Maeda Is forced to grab the ropes again as Han starts building a solid position himself scoring-wise.
As Kitazawa stands both of them on their feet again, the Osaka crowd urges Maeda on by chanting his name. Volk Han pressures Maeda again and gets into close contact as he feints and manages to find another creative leg entry for a rolling kneebar attempt. Maeda finds himself in a bad place in the middle of the ring as he has to scramble for dear life for another rope break by hooking his free leg on the nearest rope. Maeda seems to be in a danger zone here. As the two competitors resume the match, Maeda attempts to gain some control of the match and goes after Han with a sharp series of mid-kicks. Han fires back with some kicks of his own, but Maeda obviously has better technique here. Maeda manages to click with Han and gets him to the canvas with a leg sweep. Maeda attempts to get a shoulder lock on Volk Han as the Dagestani struggles to break loose from Maeda’s grip. Maeda isn’t able to quite get all of it and the two do some more grappling on the canvas as Maeda tries to slow down his opponent from the Soviet Union. Maeda eventually finds Han’s back and he tries to get a Katahajime locked in, but Han manages to roll over and the two are near the ropes, prompting another clean break. Maeda goes on the attack again and looks for a roundhouse kick which Han ducks. Maeda gets a little too comfortable and gets caught by a surprise axe kick from Han. Maeda’s head is knocked by the downward motion of Han’s foot and stumbles to the canvas the referee begins the first 10 count of the match. The crowd urges Maeda to stand up quickly, and he does as Volk Han takes a 2-0 lead in the match on points.
The match continues with Volk Han continuing to put pressure on Maeda and causing him trouble any chance he gets while Maeda lands a few more strikes, and manages to cause the Dagestani to stumble with a well-timed high kick. Volk Han keeps his footing though, and avoids a knockdown. They find themselves on the canvas again, where Han defends himself as Maeda attempts to get a collar choke. Han finds himself near the ropes and opts to use a rope break to relieve the pressure. Maeda lands several kicks targeting Han’s legs, with the crowd urging Maeda on. Maeda attempts a high kick, but Han catches it and pushes Maeda back onto the canvas floor. Han gets a full mount and appears to favor a cross-armbreaker before he opts to get back on his feet. Maeda and Han grapple a bit again and go back to the canvas where Maeda gains control of Han’s back. Han defends himself well as Maeda tries to go for a rear-naked choke, forcing him to back off. Han gets back on his feet, and Maeda comes charging at him with a rolling high kick, but Han steps back as Maeda goes flying through the air. Han, getting a bit cocky, signals Maeda to get back up. They trade some more strikes, and Han attempts a jumping axe kick but misses as Maeda returns the favor by stepping out of harm’s way. Han hits Maeda pretty hard with an open-hand strike, getting the crowd to pop at the audible connection.
The Dagestani appears to be a bit gassed almost 20 minutes into the match, and Maeda manages to time a jumping roundhouse quite well to knock Han off his feet. The referee calls for a 10 count as the crowd chants along, and Han gets back up by the count of eight. Han, perhaps sensing a need to finish the match now, grabs Maeda and pulls him backward for a huge uranage suplex. Maeda lands on his back as Volk Han immediately knots up Maeda’s legs for a knee-crusher, but Maeda somehow recognizes an opportunity for a simple toe-hold in the pretzeled entanglement and hooks the submission to the point where he forces Volk Han to type! The crowd roars in approval as the bell sounds and Maeda is your winner! The crowd chants “MA-E-D! MA-E-DA! MA-E-DA!” as the Osaka hero raises his arms in the air. Volk Han pounds the mat in frustration before Maeda helps him up. The two embrace for a brief period, with Maeda raising Volk Han’s arm in acknowledgment of how much the Soviet SAMBO specialist pushed him. They shake hands before Volk Han leaves the ring, probably with some new fans despite the loss. The WOWOW commentary team recaps the match and is very impressed with Volk Han, noting that Maeda perhaps survived by the skin of his teeth. Maeda defeats Han via submission (toe-hold), 20:09
Nobuhiko Takada vs Bob Backlund
The capacity crowd in Osaka-jō Hall is eagerly anticipating the main event and Bob Backlund is welcomed by the relatively knowledgable crowd as chants of “Back-lund! Back-lund!” break out. The American wrestling star makes his way to the ring in a red and white striped jacket and his traditional blue wrestling gear. The commentary crew hype up Backlund as a multi-time champion in America and someone widely known both in America and Japan. Takada comes out next and gets one of the loudest ovations of the evening. Both wrestlers are announced in the ring to loud ovations by Nobuyuki Furuta, with Bob Backlund having a focused yet confident look on his face. Takada stares down one of the toughest challenges of his wrestling career. They both shake hands and the bell sounds to start the main event of the evening.
Backlund strolls around the ring, measuring up Takada as he looks for an angle of attack. Backlund goes down to the canvas for a low-angle leg takedown, but Takada steps out of the way. They both continue to tease a grappling exchange before Takada delivers a sharp low kick to Backlund. Backlund grabs his thigh and stares down Takada, perhaps realizing Takada’s kicks are no joke. Takada continues to throw a mix of kicks as Backlund blocks them with his arms. Backlund catches one of Takada’s high kicks and pushes him to the canvas. Backlund taunts Takada with a little display of showmanship as he does a little jig. Takada gets up on his feet and the crowd is enjoying the build-up as Backlund signals to Takada to lock up with him. They finally grab each other’s hands before Takada swiftly goes for a rear-leg takedown and gets Takada to the canvas before Backlund’s opponent quickly scrambles to get back on his feet. They lock up again, and this time Takada tries to take Backlund’s back, but the American easily reverses and gets Takada to the canvas, and takes Takada’s back as a receipt. Takada doesn’t have much trouble getting out either, and the two go back to grappling on their feet. Takada goes for a single-leg takedown and gets Backlund on the canvas he looks for a submission attempt from side control. Backlund works his back to his feet and both stare each other down again as the strategic start to this match continues. Backlund is finally able to get Takada into a good spot as he goes for a rolling schoolboy-esque takedown that he turns into a Banana split. Takada resists the pressure and struggles with Backlund as he tries to reverse the hold. Backlund keeps him pinned though, and continues to look for the leverage he needs. Backlund changes things up and looks for a shoulder lock from side control. Takada finds himself rolling the ropes and grabs one of them for a rope break.
The two stand back up to more applause from the crowd. Takada gets dragged back down to the canvas by Backlund, who trips up Takada with a single-leg takedown. Backlund tries to lock in a kneebar, but Takada does well to defend himself. He rolls to his side and transitions to a dominant position as he looks for a cross-armbreaker. Backlund is his usual vocal self and finds a way to escape back to his feet. At the moment, it appears Backlund is getting the better of Takada with the current pace of the match as he manages to trip up Takada again and gets control of his back on the canvas. Backlund gets a headlock on Takada and appears to crank it as he attempts to get a submission locked in. Most of the crowd is behind Takada, but there are a few cheers for Backlund as well. Backlund rolls over with Takada still in his grips and transitions to a rear chin lock/camel clutch, with Takada firmly in his grips as he makes a joyful facial expression for the cameras. Takada pulls himself to the ropes for another rope break and Backlund gets a 1-0 lead on points as Masami Soranaka gets both wrestlers back on their feet.
Takada tries to change up the pace of the match by delivering a flurry of kicks before mixing things up with well-timed palm strikes. Backlund fires back and smacks Takada square in the face with one of his open-hand strikes. Takada appears a bit pissed off now and hits Backlund several times in the thigh area he targeted previously. Backlund appears stunned as he grabs his leg, allowing Takada to clinch with Backlund for a front facelock suplex. Takada tries for a cross-armbreaker near the ropes and manages to convince Backlund enough to go for his first break to avoid any further trouble. Backlund gets up and Takada continues his approach with more sharp low kicks. Takada goes for a single-leg takedown and tries to lock in a kneebar attempt in the center of the ring. Takada tries to keep himself seated as he attempts to ease the pressure. He manages to scoot to the ropes for another rope break attempt, allowing Takada to tie the score at 1-1. Takada keeps the pressure on as he barely allows Backlund a clean break, delivering sharp knees to Backlund’s abdomen. Backlund fights through this and surprises Takada by taking his back for a delayed backdrop suplex! Takada hits the canvas hard and is slow to get up, prompting the first ten count of the match. Takada responds by the count of three, but Backlund has a 2-1 advantage and celebrates this by immediately taking Takada’s arm for a Fujiwara armbar, returning the favor by barely allowing Takada to get back up. Backlund applies a ton of pressure as the crowd urges Takada to get to the ropes, which he does. Takada gets back up to his feet but is immediately met by a sharp forearm, which knocks Backlund’s opponent back to the canvas for another ten count! Takada takes his time to get up and responds by the count of eight. Takada, sensing a need to change the trajectory of the match, fires with a furious combo of palms trikes. As Backlund stumbles backward, Takada hits him with a jumping roundhouse and drags him back up for a huge side suplex! The crowd swells as they roar for Takada, and the crowd favorite continues his assault on Backlund by kicking him in the abdomen with a flashy combo. Backlund stumbles to the canvas and the referee begins another 10 count. The North Dakota native responds by the count of 7 and the match is now 3-2 on points, still in favor of Backlund.
Takada comes right back at Backlund, kicking him in the midsection as he takes him down for an armbar attempt. Backlund rolls through once again and gets Takada on his back. Backlund and Takada scramble around on the canvas in a good grappling exchange. Takada takes control of Backlund’s legs as he attempts a single-leg Boston crab, and Backlund screams “no!” as Soranaka asks if he is ready to tap. Backlund pulls himself to the nearest ropes the match is now even on points at 3-3 after Backlund uses another rope break. Backlund and Takada get back up and exchange a ton of strikes as Takada delivers a series of kicks only to get another forearm from Backlund. Takada, perhaps fueled by adrenaline, doesn’t appear to be too bothered. Takada turns around and kicks Backlund, who is still on the canvas, square in the arm. Takada drags Backlund back up to his feet and tosses him over his shoulder with a Judo throw before going for a cross-armbreaker. Backlund screams “no!” again after Soranaka sees if he is ready to tap. Backlund lets out a few of his trademark “woahs!” as he struggles to break loose from Takada’s grip, and bridges out of the submission attempt before Takada switches positions and goes for Backlund’s leg in a kneebar attempt. Backlund does his best to decrease Takada’s leverage on his leg and the two engage in another grappling exchange on the canvas, with Backlund showing off some of his amateur wrestling skills with some fancy transitions and counterwork. Takada struggles with Backlund’s strength when it comes to grappling and gets locked into a full Boston crab near the ropes, but the referee chooses to award Takada a clean break as Backlund tries to apply the submission move too close to the ropes. The crowd cheers for Takada more and more. At this stage, it appears both Backlund and Takada have bloody noses, adding some color and intensity to the match.
As Backlund gets on his feet, Takada lifts him for a Fireman’s carry, sending Backlund back to the canvas. Takada delivers more kicks to Backlund, and Backlund stumbles backward, prompting another ten count from the referee. The match is now 4-3 in favor of Takada on points. Backlund tries to find his footing in time and responds by the count of 7. Takada grapples with Backlund and tries to set him up for a side suplex, but Backlund responds with a beautiful overhead takedown/Judo throw and locks up Takada with another Fujiwara armbar. Takada finds himself in a tough spot in the center of the ring and slowly squirms his way to the nearest rope, using his leg to break Backlund’s hold. Backlund gets up and hits Takada with another lunging forearm, and pulls in the dazed Takada for a double-underhook suplex. Takada is sent flying backward as Backlund immediately goes for Takada’s legs and applies a full Boston crab. Takada immediately scrambles to the ropes, and the match is now tied 4-4 with the break. With the reset, Backlund smacks Takada with a huge open-hand strike and goes for a rear-naked choke, eventually turning it into a kneeling chicken-wing crossface. Takada tries to work his way to his feet, but Takada keeps him grounded, forcing the crowd favorite to go for the ropes again. Takada is now down to his final rope break!
Backlund waits for Takada to get up and immediately lifts him through the air with a huge variation of the Death Valley Driver/Fireman’s carry takeover slam. Takada falls flat on the mat and finds his leg seized by Backlund who attempts a kneebar. Takada desperately tries to kick himself free and does enough to slip from Backlund’s grip. Takada stands up and kicks Backlund some more before clinching with the increasingly fatigued Backlund for a belly-to-belly suplex! Takada tries several submission attempts, including a single-leg Boston crab and Achilles hold, before settling on a double wrist-lock in the center of the ring! Backlund appears reluctant to tap as Takada increasingly twists and tortures Backlund’s arm behind his back. Backlund yells “no no no!” as Soranaka points the shoot signal at him, and the crowd swells as the match reaches its climax. There’s some uncertainty for a brief moment before the referee calls for the bell. In a moment of confusion, it seems Backlund may have given up.
The American gets up quite angrily though, and looks a bit shocked at the decision. Several UWF wrestlers, including Shigeo Miyato and Yoji Anjo, enter the ring and appear to create a barrier between Backlund and Takada. Backlund is livid and goes over to Billy Robinson, seated at ringside, to demand an explanation with blood pouring from his nose. The crowd is largely cheering for Takada as all this is going on, and Takada celebrates to soak it all in. Takada defeats Backlund via submission (double wrist-lock), 26:06
Backlund continues to argue with Robinson, and the ringside microphones pick up a part of the conversation. Backlund claims he didn’t tap and that the referee called the match prematurely. Billy Robinson says “Sorry Bob, we have to protect the athlete, you know that.” Billy Robinson makes a gesture with his arm, signaling that the referee is concerned about Backlund’s health. Backlund continues to berate Robinson and says “Tell Akira Maeda he just made a new enemy.” Backlund stares down Takada as he leaves the ring, clearly angry.
The WOWOW commentary team recaps what just happened and goes over the other matches tonight. A graphic pops up announcing the next UWF event in January, which will take place at the Nippon Budokan on January 26th! It is announced that the main event will feature Akira Maeda and Nobuhiko Takada facing off against each other in UWF Newborn for the first time. Nobuhiko Takada is shown giving an interview backstage, where he claims he didn’t know if Backlund gave up or not, but he gives the referee credit for calling the match because he felt Backlund’s arm was about to snap. Takada says he gained a lot of respect for Backlund and believes he will calm down and recognize he impressed a lot of people tonight. The WOWOW commentary team signs off and we get rolling credits to close the show set to “We Will Rock You” by Queen.
(OOC: I will be traveling in a few days so I wanted to get this up early. Hope you guys enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it! It came out longer than I originally envisioned, but I found myself enjoying writing about some of these guys. If the GIFs and/or images are overpowering, let me know.)
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