Best Kobashi Podcasts (2024)

1
30 Years of Extreme: Paul Heyman & ECW's Legacy 1:02:06

19d ago1:02:06

1:02:06

30 Years of Extreme: The Legacy of ECW In this episode, Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper delve deep into the history of Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) and its profound impact on the wrestling world. Join us as we explore the origins of ECW in the early 90s, Paul Heyman's takeover, and the creative revolution that followed. They discuss Heyman's ea…

1
BONUS EPISODE: The Crossover Between Pro Wrestling and MMA 19:37

1M ago19:37

19:37

Join this episode as Fumi Saito chats with Justin Knipper about his recent chanko nabe lunch with shoot wrestling legend Shigeo "Yuko" Miyato. Delve into the fascinating discussion about the crossover between professional wrestling and mixed martial arts, and hear about the unique experiences of training sessions, the art of wrestling, and the cama…

1
The Iconic Clash: Muhammad Ali vs. Antonio Inoki 1:12:02

1M ago1:12:02

1:12:02

In this captivating episode, we delve into the historic bout between boxing legend Muhammad Ali and Japanese wrestling superstar Antonio Inoki. Taking place on June 26, 1976, this match was not just a spectacle but a groundbreaking event that bridged the worlds of professional boxing and wrestling. We explore the technological marvel of closed-circ…

1
Episode #08: (1957) NWA Champ Lou Thesz, Bobo Brazil, Hiro Matsuda, Weekly TV, More! 1:41:10

27d ago1:41:10

1:41:10

The Puro Wrestling Academy w/Dan Ginnetty returns with a special "summer school" session of the program, covering 1957 in Japan! We talk Hiro Matsuda's disdain for Rikidozan and his drive to "make it" in the business, Weekly TV begins, and NWA World Champion Lou Thesz comes to Japan to defend against Rikidozan. Plus, Bobo Brazil, Adrian Baillargeon…

1
The Triumph of Kenta Kobashi: From Rookie to Legend 1:12:49

2M ago1:12:49

1:12:49

Join us this week as we dive deep into the illustrious career of Kenta Kobashi, one of pro wrestling's greatest babyfaces. Hosted by Japan’s leading pro wrestling author, Fumi Saito, we explore Kobashi's journey from a 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:56 Early Struggles and Beginnings 00:21:25 Tradition and Discipline 00:24:47 Neon Orange Tights Origins…

1
Jumbo Tsuruta: The Unyielding Champion of All Japan Pro Wrestling 2:09:10

2M ago2:09:10

2:09:10

In this special episode of Write That Down, hosts Justin Nipper and Fumi Saito delve into the storied career of Japanese wrestling legend Jumbo Tsuruta. While originally scheduled to release the third part of their Rikki Choshi series, they instead present an extensive two-hour supercut focusing on Tsuruta's impressive journey. Listeners will explo…

1
Episode #07: (1956) World Tag Title Change! Two New Tours! Riki Travels Abroad! 1:50:10

2M ago1:50:10

1:50:10

This week on The Puro Wrestling Academy, Dan Ginnetty schools us on the entire year of 1956 in the world of Puroresu. Rikidozan & Kokichi Endo capture the NWA World Tag Team Titles from The Sharpe Brothers (Mike & Ben). Plans are made to bring in the soon to be (once again) NWA Champion Lou Thesz. Rikidozan travels to Southeast Asia to rekindle his…

1
Episode #06: (1955) Champions Crowned, Primo Carnera vs. Rikidozan, & King Kong Arrives! 1:51:27

3M ago1:51:27

1:51:27

The Puro Wrestling Academy w/Dan Ginnetty Returns! This week we finish covering the year of 1955 as Rikidozan & Azumafuji return from the States as the JWA presents two more tours in Japan. Includes Primo Carnera, Jess Ortega, King Kong Czaya, Bob Orton Sr., Bud Curtis, Dara Singh, Tiger Joginder, the first Japanese Wrestling Champions are crowned,…

1
An Insightful Journey with WWE Hall of Famer Madusa Micelli aka Alundra Blayze 1:15:30

3M ago1:15:30

1:15:30

In this riveting episode of Write That Down! join Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper for an enlightening conversation with Madusa Micelli, the trailblazing professional female wrestler. From her humble beginnings to her journey to Tokyo, Madusa unfolds an inspiring story marked by resilience, adaptability, and a lifelong passion for wrestling. Discover ho…

1
Pro Wrestling Journeys with Sean Waltman aka X-Pac 1:10:00

3M ago1:10:00

1:10:00

Welcome to a special episode featuring a heartfelt reunion with wrestling legend Sean Waltman (aka X-Pac aka 123 Kid aka Syxx) and co-host Mr. Fumi Saito, all the way from Tokyo. Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of Sean's wrestling career, from his early days training under Malenko in Florida to his transformative experiences in Minnesota…

1
Diving Into Debbie Malenko's Unique Wrestling Journey 1:10:36

3M ago1:10:36

1:10:36

In an engrossing episode, wrestler Debbie Malenko takes us through her extraordinary wrestling journey. From her debut at the Malenko Wrestling School to exploring the world of Japanese women's wrestling, Debbie shares her challenges, lessons, and triumphs. Discover how a young American wrestler navigates the intricate and demanding world of profes…

1
Episode #05: (1954/55) Rikidozan SHOOTS on Kimura, Mildred Burke Tour, Wrestling in a Pool! 1:50:58

3M ago1:50:58

1:50:58

Welcome back to The Puro Wrestling Academy w/Dan Ginnetty! This is a huge week in the history of Puroresu as we continue discussing 1954 and into 1955... This week we talk the infamous worked match turned SHOOT between Rikidozan vs. Masahiko Kimura, Mildred Burke and her ladies troupe, Wrestling in a Swimming Pool, Rikidozan slays the "3-Headed Sna…

1
The Intersection of Celebrities and Professional Wrestling 1:09:41

4M ago1:09:41

1:09:41

Jump into the riveting world of celebrities stepping into the pro wrestling thrilling arena in this illuminating episode of Write That Down! Hosted by Wrestling Historians, Justin Knipper and Mr. Fumi Saito, we dive deep into the transformative impact of celebrities' involvement in professional wrestling. From Bad Bunny to Mike Tyson, discover how …

1
Episode #04: (1954) JWA Tours, All Japan Launches, Kimura Jobs, Sharpes Dominate 1:45:24

4M ago1:45:24

1:45:24

This week, class is back in session with Dan Ginnetty as we look into 1954... We dive into TWO separate JWA Tours, Toshio Yamaguchi launches All Japan (Version 1), Kimura gets jobbed, The Sharpe Brothers reign supreme, Rikidozan thrives, Hans Schnabel & Lou Newman arrive as "Champions", more early TV wrestling results from Japan, matches taking pla…

1
Inside Perspectives & Untold Stories: Rossy Ogawa & Kenny Omega, Harold Sakata + more 52:27

4M ago52:27

52:27

We give you a rare inside-look at the world of wrestling from the eyes of a seasoned journalist who has been tracking and shaping the industry for over four decades. We delve into insightful discussions about the influence of Japanese wrestling, debunking numerous baseless rumors floating on social media and readjusting unfair narratives from the l…

1
Episode 104 - Bret Hart vs. Steve Austin - WrestleMania 13 - March 23, 1997 3:04:50

4M ago3:04:50

3:04:50

The Must See Matches All-Star Panel of Eamonn Bell, Sarah Parkin and Matty Edwards join Kieran and Mark for our final episode, the most nominated match on the list: the Bret Hart vs. Steve Austin No Holds Barred, Submission match from WrestleMania 13 on March 23, 1997. PLUS: our feelings on the project and show in general, (some of) your questions …

1
Episode #03: (1953 - 1954) First Tour, First TV, The JWA Is Born! 1:39:18

3M ago1:39:18

1:39:18

The Puro Wrestling Academy & Dan Ginnetty are back to continue to tell the story of PURORESU! This week we finish up Rikidozan's first tour of the United States in early 1953, and talk the "3-headed snake" of Rikidozan, Masahiko Kimura, & Toshio Yamaguchi who all attempt to run their own promotions in 1953 Japan! From there, we discuss Rikidozan vs…

1
The Profound Influence of Lucha Libre on Japanese Pro Wrestling 42:25

4M ago42:25

42:25

Welcome to this intriguing episode of "Write That Down" with Fumi Saito, where we delve deep into the profound influence of Lucha Libre on Japanese Pro Wrestling. From the 1930s till now, this episode provides an in-depth look at the fascinating history, traditions, and techniques adopted from Mexican wrestling. Hear captivating stories about pione…

1
The NWA in Japan 1:20:57

4M ago1:20:57

1:20:57

Dive into a fascinating exploration of the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) Championship’s rich history and significance in Japan in this riveting podcast episode. Revisit an epic timeline that stretches from the late 1950s to the early 2000s, featuring legendary wrestling icons like Lou Thesz, Ric Flair, Dory Funk Jr., Harley Race, and Jack Brisc…

1
BONUS - Drafting the 104! 1:32:42

4M ago1:32:42

1:32:42

A bonus amuse bouche before our final, most-nominated match next week: Eamonn Bell returns with his concept for drafting the 104 into supercards, with the twist that once a match has been picked, all other matches with all participating wrestlers are eliminated. Listen now for all the twists, turns, intrigue, drama, discussion and lunacy! PLUS: nov…

1
Episode #02: (1951 - 1952) Kimura Lock, Helio Gracie, More! 2:06:34

4M ago2:06:34

2:06:34

This week we pick up where we left off in 1951 and travel through the entire year of 1952. We introduce two new names to the fold in Toshio Yamaguchi & the legendary Masahiko Kimura. We discuss the first year in the wrestling business for Rikidozan and take a thorough look into his 1952 Record book. We do a deep dive into Rikidozan's opponents that…

1
Episode 103 - Kazuchika Okada vs. Katsuyori Shibata - Sakura Genesis - April 4, 2017 1:47:56

4M ago1:47:56

1:47:56

If there’s ever a match worth of lengthy discussion, it’s arguably Kazuchika Okada vs. Katsuyori Shibata from Sakura Genesis, April 4, 2017. Globetrotting Eamonn Bell returns to talk the build, action, story, fallout, legend and legacy. PLUS: brain swapping, Jimmy vs. Jey, Mania without Mania, engagement, Matt Tremont’s toilet, wild stats, the curs…

1
Rossy Ogawa's New Wrestling Venture: MARIGOLD 47:22

4M ago47:22

47:22

This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of Rossy Ogawa's newly announced wrestling company called MARIGOLD. Gain first-hand information about the company, its wrestlers, and upcoming events, while also exploring various speculations and rumors in this fascinating discourse on the current state of the wrestling industry. Discover the nuances of…

1
Episode #01: The Beginnings Of Puroresu! (1880s - 1951) 1:44:41

5M ago1:44:41

1:44:41

The time has arrived, as we begin our journey through the history of Japanese Professional Wrestling (Puroresu)! Host Dan Ginnetty and I (Ray Russell) go all the way back to the beginnings in the early 1880s with Sumo's Sorakichi Matsuda and work our way forward to the very first full-fledged tour of Pro Wrestling in Japan, circa 1951. We discuss s…

1
Episode 102 - Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Eddie Guerrero - Halloween Havoc - October 26, 1997 1:11:44

5M ago1:11:44

1:11:44

Dave Ryan & Lee Malone from the excellent Days of Thunder return to discuss THE Crusierweight classic and a fair shot for the best match WCW ever put on as Rey Misterio Jr. vs. Eddie Guerrero go Mask vs. Title at Halloween Havoc on October 26, 1997. PLUS: Goldberg and Gillberg, DSF, throwing people under the bus, WCW stats, Raw vs. Nitro ratings, L…

1
The Unmistakable Legend of Haku 43:42

5M ago43:42

43:42

Revisit the fascinating career of pro wrestling legend, Haku, in today's scintillating discussion. Tracing his origins from the tranquil island of Tonga to his presence in the sports entertainment industry, delve deep into Haku's incredible evolution as a fighter and a wrestler.This episode shines a spotlight on his early wrestling days in the Worl…

1
Episode ZERO!!! Setting the Stage w/Dan Ginnetty! 45:35

5M ago45:35

45:35

Welcome to the launching pad of The Puro Wrestling Academy Podcast with the Professor of Puroresu himself, Dan Ginnetty! In this episode we set the stage for the things to come. We look into Dan's background in studying Japanese Wrestling history, and also his former TV show where Dan produced American commentary over legendary Japanese matches for…

1
Episode 101 - Mitsuharu Misawa & Kenta Kobashi vs. Toshiaki Kawada & Akira Taue - June 9, 1995 58:58

5M ago58:58

58:58

Kieran & Mark enlist MOJ’s help one more time to cover the highest ranked tag match on the list: Mitsuharu Misawa & Kenta Kobashi vs. Toshiaki Kawada & Akira Taue from June 9, 1995.PLUS: potential unemployment, Nick Jackson, three Zacks, Bridge of Dreams, Japanese handhelds, THE YETI, cool T-shirts, DAN, Austin Powers, toy cars on the commentary de…

1
Episode 100 - Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart, WrestleMania X - March 20, 1994 59:05

5M ago59:05

59:05

It's brother versus brother, brother! Veteran wrestler RJ Singh joins Kieran and Mark to talk the build, action, details and legacy of Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart from WrestleMaina X on March 20, 1994.PLUS: a rolled up magazine to the eye, RJ’s fandom and journey into wrestling, the FWA, correcting a Cagematch error, watching wrestling matches via Twit…

1
WWE Hall of Fame Inductee Bull Nakano's Magnificent Wrestling Journey 1:00:06

5M ago1:00:06

1:00:06

In this illuminating episode, we embark on a deep dive into the sensational journey of Bull Nakano, the first female Japanese wrestler inducted into the prestigious WWE Hall of Fame. Well known for marking an undeniable imprint on women's wrestling globally, we explore Nakano's rise to stardom and her substantial contribution in shifting perception…

1
Episode 99 - CM Punk vs. John Cena, Money in the Bank - July 17, 2011 1:09:24

5M ago1:09:24

1:09:24

Do we have your attention now? Kieran and Mark are joined again by GRAPPL founder and co-host of BRETRO, Gareth Hodgson, to get into everything surrounding CM Punk vs. John Cena from Money in the Bank on July 17, 2011.PLUS: Taboo Tuesday: Text Message Edition, Nickelback, anonymous General Managers, Mason Ryan, dance contests, The Nexus, the highly…

1
Episode 98 - Mitsuharu Misawa vs. Kenta Kobashi - March 1, 2003 56:47

6M ago56:47

56:47

The excellent (and disgustingly young) Squill returns as two broken down old men talk about two broken down old men having the fight of their lives: Mitsuharu Misawa vs. Kenta Kobashi from March 1, 2003.PLUS: youth, the All-Japan/NOAH split, injuries, Jake Lee, Takeshi Rikio, Count Binface, Vermin Supreme, SEM, Grand Sword by the pool, NOAH video g…

1
Episode 97 - Christopher Daniels vs. AJ Styles vs. Samoa Joe, Unbreakable - September 11, 2005 1:08:32

6M ago1:08:32

1:08:32

You’ve got to be kidding us! Garrett Kidney returns to discuss the importance, build, action and legacy of THAT TNA three-way: Christopher Daniels vs. Samoa Joe vs. AJ Styles from Unbreakable on September 11, 2005.PLUS: Pratchett, bad reasons, Air Raid, bootleg VHS, Florida, Flo-Rida, autocorrect woes, Simon Diamond, Konnan being dogshit, Shark Boy…

1
THE IRON CLAW (2023): Movie Review & Analysis + Von Erichs in Japan 1:00:49

6M ago1:00:49

1:00:49

This week Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper offer up a thorough review of the film, 'Iron Claw - The Von Erich Family Story.' They highlight the movie's retelling of tragic tales plus the vital historical moments that may have been left out of the film, and the challenges of recreating events from wrestling history. Discover how the film captures signifi…

1
Episode 96 - Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega - Wrestle Kingdom 11, January 4, 2017 56:23

6M ago56:23

56:23

Pro-Wrestling Torch columnist and podcaster Rich Fann returns to help us finish a rivalry at the beginning as we talk the first Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega singles match, from Wrestle Kingdom 11, on January 4, 2017.PLUS: car mould, sealing kids in tubes, Wrestle Kingdom on the treadmill, voting patterns, Ezio Ospreay, Low-Ki 47, HORIPRO, baseba…

1
Episode 95 - Mitsuharu Misawa vs. Toshiaki Kawada - June 3, 1994 52:04

6M ago52:04

52:04

Mark & Kieran fire up the podcycle and sidecar for a two-hander to tackle "the perfect match": Mitsuharu Misawa vs. Toshiaki Kawada from June 3, 1994.PLUS: a bad week with no mint tea, “choppy-choppy your peepee”, When Worlds Collide, Kieran’s VHS collection, “how much does this guy weigh?”, Eddie Kingston, Champion Carnival, Joseph Montecillo, an …

1
Rossy Ogawa's New Dawn: Setting the record straight on #STARDOM, Ogawa's new promotion & more 59:13

6M ago59:13

59:13

Fumi Saito & Justin Knipper took an in-depth look into the life and career of Rossy Ogawa, a prominent figure in the world of Japanese professional wrestling, and his journey in Stardom. Delving into Rossy Ogawa's rich history from the '70s to today, they celebrated his prolific contribution to shaping budding talents into widely acclaimed wrestlin…

1
Episode 94 - Bryan Danielson vs. Nigel McGuinness - August 12, 2006 1:03:14

7M ago1:03:14

1:03:14

Kieran and Mark are joined by the COO of wXw, Tasslio Jung, to talk Bryan Danielson vs. Nigel McGuinness from ring of Honor Unified on August 12, 2006, as he provides his unique perspective on the match... PLUS: Ring Warriors, the Dungeon of Doom, Alessandro Del Piero, Tiger Mask, the day-to-day of a wrestling company COO, Ryanair, Desmond Wolfe, t…

1
Legacies & Controversies: Shedding light on Ibushi vs. Marufuji—What's next for Kazuchika Okada?—The legend of Killer Khan 1:05:25

7M ago1:05:25

1:05:25

On the latest episode, Fumi & Justin casted light on the much talked-about and rather controversial match between Kota Ibushi and Naomichi Marufuji at Pro Wrestling NOAH last month. In their discussion, Fumi & Justin discussed the pushing boundaries of the wrestling narrative. They debunked criticisms and emphasized the emotional & human aspects of…

1
Episode 93 - Kenta Kobashi & Tsuyoshi Kikuchi vs. The Can-Am Express - May 25, 1992 52:41

7M ago52:41

52:41

The Noted Raconteur, Sean Orleans returns for a magical night in Sendai: Kenta Kobashi & Tsuyoshi Kikuchi vs. The Can-Am Express of Doug Furnas & Dan Kroffat from May 25, 1992. PLUS: a fiesta, Makoto Hashi, the differences between the All-Japan and New-Japan Junior divisions, indoor gardening, world records, a 40in vertical leap, Ladder matches, th…

1
Episode 92 - Katsuyori Shibata vs. Tomohiro Ishii - August 4, 2013 52:19

7M ago52:19

52:19

Wrestling historian and author Patrick W. Reed returns to help us talk the history, context, details and legacy of Katsuyori Shibata and Tomohiro Ishii beating the piss out of each other on August 4, 2013.PLUS: Classic G1, the rise of Ishii, RevPro, Stone Pitbull factoids, descriptions of fabulous violence, opposing wrestling philosophies, Unchaine…

1
"PRO WRESTLING MASTER" Keiji Muto: Part Four—Exploring the Legacy of Keiji Muto & the Evolution of Pro Wrestling 1:02:35

7M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

Join our final and rather captivating discussion about Keiji Muto's phenomenal legacy in the world of professional wrestling. This episode dives into Muto's multifaceted career, dissecting the various aspects of his work, comparable to a saga like Star Wars or Lord of the Rings. We discuss Muto's significant gimmick match with Atsushi Onita, giving…

1
Episode 91 - Sasha Banks vs. Bayley - NXT Takeover Brooklyn - August 22, 2015 50:37

7M ago50:37

50:37

On loan from POST Wrestling, the incomparable Karen Peterson joins Kieran & Mark to discuss the highest-ranked women’s match in the project: Sarah Banks vs. Bayley from NXT Takeover Brooklyn on August 22, 2015.PLUS: paperwork in Japan, the Stephification of WWE women’s wrestling, “Divas”, main eventing in the semi-main event spot, Gail Kim vs. Amaz…

1
"PRO WRESTLING MASTER" Keiji Muto: Part Three—Shining Wizard 1:23:01

7M ago1:23:01

1:23:01

In this episode of 'Write That Down,' we trace the transformative journey of legendary wrestler Keiji Muto and his profound influence in shaping the landscape of professional wrestling. Joined by industry experts Justin Knipper and Fumi Saito, we explore significant events and eras of wrestling in Japan, moving from the 'Dark Age' in the new millen…

1
Episode 90 - Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega - Dominion 6.9 - June 9, 2018 51:47

7M ago51:47

51:47

It's the Summer of 69(-minute long matches) as Mark and Kieran tackle the epic, seven-star, Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega No Time Limit 2/3 Falls match from June 9, 2018.PLUS: it’s far too cold, match length, Kota Ibushi’s magic feather, How2KennyOmega, trousers, callbacks, balloons, Winnipeg shovel hands, “CHOTTOMATTECHOTTOMATTECHOTTOMATTE!!”, h…

1
"PRO WRESTLING MASTER" Keiji Muto: Part Two—The Great Muta's Great Legacy 1:02:19

7M ago1:02:19

1:02:19

Part Two of our series on all-things Keiji Muto is here. On today’s episode, we picked up from part one and covered: New Japan, the NWA title & WCW 1991–1996: -The Fujinami vs. Flair NWA title changes in Japan & USA -The Great Muta vs. Masahiro Chono for the NWA title, Jan. 4 1993 -Muta vs. Antonio Inoki during Inoki’s retirement tour, Wrestling Do…

1
Episode 89 - TLC II - WrestleMania X-7 - April 1, 2001 1:10:07

7M ago1:10:07

1:10:07

Author, podcaster, Mastermind contestant and mahjong master, George Twigg joins us to deconstruct The Hardy Boyz vs. The Dudley Boyz vs. Edge & Christian in TLC II from WrestleMania X-7 on April 1, 2001. PLUS: a live book review, Mark’s vast wrestling physical media collection, a quiz, ICW, the WWF booking of 1999, the milestones that led to the ma…

1
"PRO WRESTLING MASTER" Keiji Muto: Part One—Three Musketeers of New Japan 1:09:07

8M ago1:09:07

1:09:07

This episode of Write That Down! is about all-things Keiji Muto. The 58-year-old legend captured Pro Wrestling NOAH’s GHC title at their Destination iPPV held in Tokyo Budokan in February '21. In part one, Fumi and Justin discussed: -Pro Wrestling NOAH: Destination 2021: Muto wins GHC -Muto's NJPW debut in ’84 vs Masahiro Chono -His first excursion…

1
Episode 88 - Akira Hokuto vs. Shinobu Kandori - AJW Dream Slam I - April 2, 1993 1:17:56

8M ago1:17:56

1:17:56

One of our great joys in doing this show has been talking classic joshi with Sarah Parkin, so lets’s do it one last time for Akira Hokuto vs. Shinobu Kandori from AJW Dream Slam I on April 2, 1993.PLUS: books, heat, Eastenders booking, the history of LLPW and its battles with AJW, Kandori hates everybody and they hate her, Tom Magee vs. Bret Hart, …

1
Episode 87 - Kenny Omega & Hangman Page vs. The Young Bucks - AEW Revolution 2020 - February 29, 2020 1:05:04

8M ago1:05:04

1:05:04

Comic writer and artist, and big wrestling fan, Daniel Warren Johnson joins us to give a live perspective on Kenny Omega & Hangman Page vs. The Young Bucks from AEW Revolution 2020 on February 29, 2020.PLUS: the G1, Jushin Liger, what it’s like being a “new” wrestling fan in this day and age, finisher larceny, AEW’s positioning within the MSM proje…

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