[2000-10-21-AJPW-October Giant Series] Genichiro Tenryu vs Stan Hansen

[soup23]

The next to last match of Stan’s career and the last singles match. So long cowboy. Tenryu knows Stan is limited so he takes initiative in killing himself with two early topes to kickstart the match. It is a nice contrast watching this behind the MAW match as the raw potential was there in that match but the timing is much more on point here. Just look at the way Hansen blocks a chop and delivers one of his own halfway through this match. That only comes with a lot of seasoning. The middle slugfest here really feels like Stan making one last stand. His nose is busted open and every body part hurts but he isn’t going down without a fight. Tenryu keeps looking for a lariat and Stan works the arm. Stan hits a lariat of his own but the combination of him being beat down with the ref also taking a tumble allows him to not make a pin. Tenryu is able to hit the fallaway elbow to essentially end Stan’s career. The finish came sudden but I loved the old man fight before it. ***1/2 (7.2)

[Tim Evans]

Stan doesn't even attempt to catch Tenyru during his second dive.  For this being Stan's last singles match, it wasn't too bad. Stan gave it his all and even hit a lariat but it just wasn't enough to beat Tenyru. That finish was awkward but was kinda refreshing.