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The native form of this personal name is Baba Shōhei. This article uses Western name order when mentioning individuals.

Key Information

Shohei Baba (馬場 正平, Baba Shōhei; January 23, 1938 – January 31, 1999), best known by his ring name Giant Baba (ジャイアント馬場, Jaianto Baba), was a Japanese professional wrestler, promoter, and professional baseball player. He is best known as a co-founder of All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW), a promotion he founded in 1972 along with Mitsuo Momota and Yoshihiro Momota, the sons of his mentor Rikidōzan. For the first 10 years of its existence, Baba was the top star of All Japan, while also serving as the booker, promoter, head trainer and president of the promotion from its inception in 1972 till his death in 1999. Baba was also responsible for recruiting much of the talent for All Japan, and was the public face of the promotion for much of his lifetime.

Considered one of the most beloved Japanese wrestlers ever, Baba was a national hero with a level of popularity in Japan comparable to that of Hulk Hogan in the United States. The 2006 Top 100 Historical Persons in Japan survey ranked Baba the 93rd greatest person in the history of Japan, as voted for by the general public.[2] Among his many accomplishments, Baba was a record seven-time winner of the Champion Carnival, a four-time PWF World Heavyweight Champion, three time NWA International Heavyweight Champion and a three-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion.

Early life

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Shohei Baba was born on January 23, 1938, in Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture, the last son of Kazuo and Mitsu Baba. For most of his early childhood, Baba was one of the smallest children in his class, however, around the fifth grade, he began to grow at a rapid rate, and by the time he was in the ninth grade he was already 175 cm tall.[3] It soon became apparent he was suffering from gigantism. Nevertheless, Baba excelled at baseball, becoming the top player at his local club. After graduating from elementary school, Baba enrolled in the department of mechanical engineering at Sanjo Business High School. Baba was forced to give up baseball when he joined high school as he was continuing to grow at an incredible rate (190 cm at the age of 16) and no cleats could be sourced in his size.[3] He soon joined the art club instead, but this didn't last long as the school ordered custom cleats and Baba was invited to join the baseball team. Baba continued to impress, recording 18 strikeouts during a practice game, which led to tabloids reporting on "Sanjo High School's giant pitcher" and Baba garnering the attention of Nippon Professional Baseball scouts. In 1954, Baba met with Hidetoshi Genkawa of the Yomiuri Giants who invited Baba to drop out of high school and join the team full time. Baba accepted and began pitching for the Giants in January 1955 at #59.

Professional baseball career

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Yomiuri Giants (1955–1959)

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Baba during his rookie year with the Yomiuri Giants

Although Baba joined the Yomiuri Giants in 1955, he did not play in the league at all in his first year with the team by recommendation of director Shigeru Mizuhara.[4] Baba was relegated to the second team for his first year, earning 12 wins and 1 loss in his rookie year and 13 wins and 2 losses in 1957. Both years, Baba won the Nippon Professional Baseball second team league's best pitcher award.[5] However, at that time, professional baseball in Japan did not hold official games between the second team, and this career seems to be a lie. Baba began suffering eyesight problems in 1957 and was forced to take time off for surgery when it was discovered he had developed a brain tumour. Baba underwent craniotomy at the University of Tokyo Hospital on December 23, 1957. The success rate of the surgery at that time was very low, and the doctor warned Baba he was likely to lose his eyesight completely, however, the operation was successful, and Baba was discharged after a week. He returned to the camp with a bandage on his head in January 1958. Baba played for two more seasons. However, after Hideo Fujimoto, a coach who formed a bond with Baba and regularly advocated for him to start, left the team, Baba was released from the Giants in 1959 after five seasons.[6][7]

Taiyo Whales (1960)

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Fujimoto would leave for the Taiyo Whales, and invited Baba to a training camp in an attempt to get him signed in 1960. Baba was invited for a tryout by Goro Taniguchi and eventually hired, requiring him to move to Kawasaki, however, just days after moving, Baba fell in the bathroom of his new apartment and crashed directly into the glass door of the shower, which required 17 stitches in his left elbow and led to Baba losing feeling in his hand for a while. Despite the injury not being serious, Baba retired from baseball shortly after and moved back to Niigata.

Professional wrestling career

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Japan Pro Wrestling Alliance (1960–1972)

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Baba training in 1962

Baba first met Rikidōzan while he was playing baseball, who told him he would do well as a professional wrestler. With his baseball career over, Baba decided to pursue professional wrestling. Meeting with Rikidōzan again in April 1960, Baba began training in the Japan Pro Wrestling Alliance (JWA) dojo along with Kanji "Antonio" Inoki, a Japanese emigrant whom Rikidōzan met during a trip to Brazil. Baba and Inoki debuted on the same show on September 30, 1960, with Baba beating Yonetaro Tanaka in his first match. In 1961, Rikidōzan arranged for Baba to wrestle and live in the United States for a few months. Baba became a popular villain in America, wrestling on the west coast as the fan favourite "'Big' Shohei Baba", and as the villainous "Baba the Giant" in New York. He wrestled the likes of The Destroyer and Buddy Rogers numerous times, as well as Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship in Madison Square Garden in February 1964.[8][9][10]

While Baba was in America his trainer Rikidōzan died and the JWA began to struggle, and as a result Baba returned to Japan full time in 1966. He formed a popular tag team known as "B-I Cannon" with Inoki, and the two won the NWA International Tag Team Championship from Tarzan Tyler and Bill Watts in 1968, going on to hold the titles four times in total.[11] Baba also held the NWA International Heavyweight Championship on three occasions,[12] and won the World Big League a record six times. As the JWA continued to struggle going into the 1970s, Baba and Inoki agreed to go their own separate ways. Inoki attempted a hostile takeover of the JWA in late 1971, for which he was fired, whereas Baba decided not to renew his contract in 1972. The JWA would disband the following year.

All Japan Pro Wrestling (1972–1999)

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PWF World Heavyweight Champion (1972–1985)

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Baba after winning the NWA World Heavyweight Championship for the first time, c. 1974

After leaving JWA, Baba and Inoki formed their own promotions. Rikidōzan's two sons followed Baba to his new promotion and helped co-found it. Baba's All Japan Pro Wrestling debuted in October 1972, backed by Nippon Television. AJPW established the PWF Heavyweight Championship and Giant Baba as its top star, with Baba winning the Championship in 1973 and holding it for 1920 days, making 38 successful defences before losing to Tor Kamata in 1978.[13] Baba won the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship from Jack Brisco ending Brisco's year and a half run as champion on December 2, 1974. A week later he dropped the title back to Brisco.[14] Baba would regain the PWF Heavyweight Championship in America from Abdullah The Butcher in 1979, making another 13 successful defences before dropping the title to Harley Race in 1982.[15] Baba would go on to hold the title four times for a total of 3,847 days, or just over ten years. Baba's runs with the title made him synonymous with it, and promoted him to a new level of stardom in Japan. Between his debut in 1960 and April 1984, Baba wrestled 3,000 consecutive matches and did not miss a single booking, only breaking the cycle after he suffered a minor neck injury.

While continuing to be the promotion's top star, Baba also put a focus on using foreign wrestlers, inviting the likes of Dory Funk, Bruiser Brody, Abdullah The Butcher and Stan Hansen to compete for All Japan from the very beginning. Baba also focused heavily on training the next generation of wrestlers, particularly Jumbo Tsuruta, who was his first student after forming AJPW, and Atsushi Onita, with whom Baba formed an almost parent-like bond.

Late career (1985–1998)

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After losing the PWF Heavyweight Championship for the final time in 1985, Baba stepped back from the main event and instead focused on running the company while competing in lower-level matches, pushing Genichiro Tenryu and Jumbo Tsuruta as his successors. He did not abandon his rivalry with Inoki, and in 1987 notably wrestled a "Different Style Fight" as those wrestled by Inoki against real life martial artists in worked affairs. Baba faced the over 7 ft Raja Lion, an alleged karate champion from Pakistan, rumored to be actually a large man Baba found working in a restaurant, as a spoof on Inoki's matches.[16]

Baba ran his company with a schedule of eight tours a year travelling nationwide, and maintained this the entire time he was in charge. Baba remained an extremely popular figure among fans, and continued teaming with young wrestlers and veterans in opening matches into the late 1990s, maintaining a full-time schedule until December 1998. Under Baba's rule, All Japan Pro Wrestling reached unprecedented heights of popularity in the 1990s, thanks to Baba's booking and the performances of Baba disciples Mitsuharu Misawa, Toshiaki Kawada, Akira Taue and Kenta Kobashi, dubbed the "Four Pillars of Heaven" by publications. With the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship as the focal point, All Japan sold out more than 250 consecutive shows in Tokyo throughout the early to mid-1990s, routinely drawing houses in the $1,000,000 range eight times a year at Budokan Hall. At the peak of the company, tickets for the next Budokan show would be sold at the live event and completely sell out that night. In 1998, Baba finally agreed to run the Tokyo Dome on May 1, and despite it being a few years since the company peaked, they still drew 58,300 paying fans. It became well known that as a promoter, Baba would rather use a handshake agreement than a signed contract, as he had a great reputation for keeping his word when it came to match finishes and payrolls. Because of this, many regarded Baba as the most honest promoter in the professional-wrestling business.

Throughout 1998, it was becoming clearer and clearer that Baba's health was deteriorating. Despite this, he worked a full-time schedule throughout the year, touring the country and competing on most shows. However, Baba was slowly losing a tremendous amount of weight, and looked much more pale and weak compared to his previous self. His final match, prior to being confined to a hospital bed, occurred on December 5, 1998, at Nippon Budokan in Tokyo, where he teamed with Rusher Kimura and Mitsuo Momota to take on Masanobu Fuchi, Haruka Eigen, and Tsuyoshi Kikuchi, bringing his career total to 5,769 matches.[17][18]

Personal life

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Little is known about Baba's life outside the ring. A reserved and private man, he did not drink or carouse with other wrestlers after shows. Baba was highly respected by foreign wrestlers, as he always made sure that they traveled first class and stayed in the best hotels, and paid for all of their beer and food. Although not a heavy or frequent drinker, Baba was known to have an incredible tolerance for alcohol and could consume it for hours without showing any effects. He was a heavy smoker who preferred cigars, but quit after his friend Gyutsu Matsuyama, another heavy smoker, was hospitalised with stomach cancer.

On September 16, 1971, he married Motoko Kawai (born January 2, 1940; often called "Mrs. Baba") in Hawaii, a place Baba enjoyed and regularly visited. Knowledge of their wedding was not widely publicized until almost ten years later, when they announced it at a press conference. A ceremony was held in 1983. Baba and his wife had no children fearing the child could also suffer from gigantism. Baba and his wife instead developed a close relationship with Baba's student Atsushi Onita who Baba considered like his own child; Baba and Motoko considered adopting Onita at one point. Onita has said "I learned the most important things as a human being from Mr. Baba".

Motoko died on April 14, 2018, from cirrhosis of the liver; she was 78 years old.[19]

Death

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In January 1999, Baba was taken in to a hospital and confined to a bed. He saw his last wrestling match on January 22, as Toshiaki Kawada defeated Mitsuharu Misawa for the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship. Nine days later on January 31, 1999, Baba died of liver failure from complications of colon cancer at approximately 16:04 local time in the Tokyo Medical University Hospital. He was 61 years old. Present at his deathbed were his wife, his older sister, his niece, All Japan ring announcer Ryu Nakada and senior referee Kyohei Wada.

Baba had known about his cancer diagnosis for at least a year prior to his death but kept it a secret, not wanting to cause worry about his condition. Baba's three closest employees, Jumbo Tsuruta, Mitsuharu Misawa and Joe Higuchi, did not know about it until after he died.

Baba's funeral was delayed due to the fact they could not find a casket large enough to fit his body. A memorial service was held publicly on April 17, 1999, at the Nippon Budokan the day after the 1999 Champion Carnival final. Over 28,000 people attended, including the entirety of the All Japan Pro Wrestling roster, as well as Baba's wife and family. His body was later cremated, and his tomb is located at Honmatsuji in Akashi City, Hyogo Prefecture.[20]

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Baba appears in the manga and anime series Tiger Mask where he is a colleague and friend of Tiger Mask, Naoto Date.

Championships and accomplishments

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Baba (right) and Jumbo Tsuruta as NWA International Tag Team Champions, c. 1984
Baba as PWF World Heavyweight Champion, 1982

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Giant Baba

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from Grokipedia
Shohei Baba (January 23, 1938 – January 31, 1999), better known by his ring name Giant Baba, was a Japanese professional wrestler, promoter, and former baseball player renowned for his towering stature of 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m) and his pivotal role in shaping modern puroresu. After a promising career as a right-handed pitcher for the Yomiuri Giants in Nippon Professional Baseball, where he earned the Eastern League Pitcher of the Year award in 1956 with a 12-1 record, Baba transitioned to professional wrestling in 1960 under the tutelage of Rikidōzan. Baba debuted on September 30, 1960, and quickly rose to prominence in the Japan Wrestling Association (JWA), becoming a main event star alongside and earning the nickname "Giant of the Orient" for his imposing presence and athletic prowess. In October 1972, amid the decline of the JWA, Baba founded (AJPW) shortly after Inoki established , transforming AJPW into a powerhouse promotion by emphasizing athletic and international-style wrestling and booking international stars like and . Throughout his career, Baba held multiple championships, including the PWF Heavyweight Championship, and was instrumental in popularizing through high-profile tours to the and innovative storytelling that blended athleticism with drama. His legacy endures as a co-founder of AJPW, which under his leadership became renowned for its high-quality, athletic matches, until his death from colon cancer on January 31, 1999, at age 61.

Early Life

Family and Childhood

Shohei Baba, later known as Giant Baba, was born on January 23, 1938, in Sanjō, , , into a modest of average stature. He was the youngest child of Kazuo and Mitsu Baba, with one older brother who stood about 5 feet 6 inches tall and two elder sisters; his parents were also notably shorter, reflecting the typical heights of the era in rural . The 's background was humble, shaped by the post-war economic challenges in Niigata, where daily life revolved around local work and community ties, though specific parental occupations remain undocumented in available records. Baba's early childhood was marked by a dramatic physical transformation due to . Initially one of the smaller children in his class, he experienced a rapid growth spurt starting around , reaching approximately 175 cm (5 feet 9 inches) by and continuing to tower over peers thereafter. By age 16 in high school, he had grown to 190 cm (6 feet 3 inches), necessitating custom-made uniforms and baseball equipment due to his exceptional size, which set him apart in social interactions and daily activities like finding suitable clothing or school desks. His stature influenced family dynamics, as Baba often assisted with household tasks that required reach, while his siblings and parents adapted to his increasing height, which by age 17 exceeded 6 feet 9 inches—nearly two feet taller than his parents. During these formative years in Sanjō, Baba developed an early interest in sports, particularly , through participating in local and watching community matches, which provided an outlet for his physical abilities and fostered his competitive spirit.

Education and Early Athletics

Shohei Baba attended Sanjo Jitsugyo High School in his native Sanjo, , where his extraordinary height—already approaching 6 feet 8 inches by his teenage years—drew early attention in local athletics. Despite challenges posed by his size, including the need for custom-fitted equipment, Baba focused on , joining the school's team as a right-handed and quickly establishing himself as a standout talent. His performances earned him local recognition as "Sanjo High School's giant ," highlighted by his ability to dominate games with a powerful and commanding presence on the mound, including a practice game where he recorded 18 strikeouts. Baba's high school career showcased his potential in organized sports, with scouts from professional teams taking notice of his raw athleticism and physical advantages. The , one of Japan's premier franchises, identified him as a promising prospect during his junior year, impressed by his strikeout totals and overall command despite his youth. In 1955, at age 17, Baba made the pivotal decision to leave school early and pursue a professional career, signing directly with the Giants as an amateur —a move supported by his family's encouragement of his athletic pursuits. This transition marked the end of Baba's formal education but the beginning of his structured involvement in elite-level baseball, where his height provided a unique edge in pitching while requiring adaptations like oversized gloves and uniforms from the team. His early success in high school tryouts and local tournaments solidified his commitment to the sport, setting the stage for a brief but notable professional tenure.

Professional Baseball Career

Yomiuri Giants Tenure (1955–1959)

Shohei Baba signed with the in 1955 at the age of 17, having dropped out of high school to pursue a career as a after being scouted by Hidetoshi Genkawa. Assigned to the team's farm system (ni-gun), Baba did not play in his first year. In 1956, his first full season, he compiled a 12-1 record, earning recognition as the top in the Central League's second team. Baba continued his strong performance in the minors in 1957, posting 13 wins and securing the best pitcher award again for his low ERA and command on the mound. Despite these accomplishments, his transition to the major league roster proved challenging due to health issues; he debuted as a reliever in 1957, appearing in three games with a 0-1 record and an impressive 1.29 ERA over 7 innings. One notable outing came on October 23, 1957, when he pitched in relief during a 1-0 loss to the in the season finale, demonstrating his potential despite the result. In late 1957, Baba underwent brain surgery to remove a tumor, which impacted his career. In 1958 and 1959, recovery from surgery and ongoing physical challenges restricted his play, with minimal major league appearances totaling only seven overall. His tenure coincided with a dominant era for the , who captured the pennant each year from 1955 to 1959 and won the 1955 against the Nankai Hawks, though they fell short in the subsequent four series. While Baba's major league contributions were minimal, his success helped bolster the organization's pitching depth during this period of sustained excellence.

Taiyo Whales Stint (1960)

Following his release from the after the 1959 season, Shohei Baba signed with the Taiyo Whales for the campaign, hoping to revive his pitching career. The Whales, under manager Osamu Mihara, captured the pennant that year with a 70-56-4 record and swept the 4-0 against the Daimai Orions. Baba's tenure proved extremely short, as he appeared in only a handful of games amid mounting physical strain from prior overuse injuries to his shoulder and elbow. The decisive blow came early in 1960 when Baba slipped while exiting the bathtub in his apartment, severely injuring his pitching arm. This accident compounded his existing ailments and rendered him unable to compete effectively, prompting his retirement from at age 22.

Transition to Wrestling

After concluding his brief career with the Taiyo Whales in 1960, Shohei Baba faced an uncertain future due to the arm injury sustained in the bathtub accident that ended his pitching prospects. Seeking a new athletic outlet amid the rising popularity of in , Baba recalled an earlier encounter with , the sport's pioneering figure who had urged him to consider wrestling given his extraordinary height of 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m). In April 1960, Baba relocated to and began intensive training at the Japan Wrestling Association (JWA) under 's direct guidance, despite lacking any prior experience in the discipline. His primary motivations included achieving financial stability in an industry that had exploded in popularity through 's nationally televised matches, capitalizing on his physical advantages for marketability, and emulating the bold, heroic persona that had made a . Baba's training regimen focused on fundamental techniques such as takedowns, holds, and endurance building, often alongside other recruits like future rival . He participated in several informal amateur-style bouts during this period to hone his skills, which helped build his confidence despite initial challenges adapting to the physical demands. By summer 1960, convinced of his potential in the profession, Baba committed to going pro, marking a pivotal shift that would define his legacy in Japanese sports entertainment.

Professional Wrestling Career

Japan Wrestling Association Period (1960–1972)

Shohei Baba, known professionally as Giant Baba, made his professional wrestling debut on September 30, 1960, at the Daito Ward Gymnasium in under the Japan Wrestling Association (JWA), defeating Yonetaro Tanaka in a quick match that highlighted his imposing 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m) frame carried over from his days. Trained rigorously by JWA founder Rikidozan, Baba quickly adapted to the promotion's strong-style approach, starting in preliminary bouts against local talent while learning the fundamentals of submissions and strikes. Under Rikidozan's guidance until his death in 1963, Baba participated in tag matches and multi-man events that built his endurance, often teaming with fellow rookies to face imported American heels, establishing him as a reliable babyface in JWA's national circuit. In 1961, Rikidozan arranged for Baba to embark on an extended tour of the , lasting until 1964, where he trained under figures like and the Great Tojo while competing across territories to refine his skills and persona. During this period, Baba faced prominent American wrestlers, including a loss to NWA World Heavyweight Champion Lou Thesz in on February 8, 1964, and an earlier undercard bout against at on November 13, 1961, which helped solidify his "Giant" moniker through his height advantage and power-based offense. He also challenged Buddy Rogers for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship in 1962 and wrestled in high-profile matches, gaining exposure that elevated his status upon returning to full-time in 1966 amid JWA's post-Rikidozan struggles. Back in JWA, Baba formed a pivotal partnership with fellow debutant , dubbing themselves the "B-I Cannon," and dominated the tag division in the late by capturing the NWA International Tag Team Championship four times, beginning with a victory over and Tarzan Tyler on October 31, 1967. Their reigns, including defenses against teams like the Funks in 1970, showcased Baba's role as the powerhouse while Inoki handled technical elements, drawing massive crowds and stabilizing JWA's bookings. Individually, Baba rose to main event prominence by winning the vacant NWA International Heavyweight Championship on November 24, 1965, in by defeating in a tournament final, a title he defended in grueling feuds against imports like The Destroyer, whose 1969 two-out-of-three-falls challenge in became a landmark for Baba's resilience and chopping strikes. By the late , these rivalries, including bouts with Bruiser Brody precursors and American touring stars, cemented Baba as JWA's top draw, headlining events with sold-out arenas and transitioning him from Rikidozan's shadow to the promotion's undisputed ace.

Founding and Early All Japan Pro Wrestling (1972–1980)

In 1972, amid the ongoing decline of the Japan Wrestling Association (JWA) following the 1963 death of its founder and subsequent mismanagement, Giant Baba departed the organization to establish (AJPW) on October 21. He partnered with and Yoshihiro Momota, the sons of , to form the new promotion, marking a shift from his role as a wrestler to that of a promoter and booker. AJPW held its inaugural event on the day of its founding at Machida City Gymnasium in , with Baba defeating in the main event. The promotion quickly secured broadcasting support from Nippon Television, which aired its shows and provided crucial financial stability during the early stages. By early 1973, AJPW launched its first major tournament, the , emphasizing a style characterized by technical wrestling and dramatic storytelling. To build legitimacy and attract top competition, Baba established the Pacific Wrestling Federation (PWF) in 1973 as a governing body for AJPW's championships, modeled after the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) structure. This affiliation allowed AJPW to recognize select NWA titles and bring in prominent international talent, such as Dory Funk Jr. and Terry Funk, who participated in high-profile tag team matches against Japanese teams. These crossovers helped elevate the promotion's prestige and draw larger crowds. As booker and president, Baba navigated initial financial challenges, including limited resources and competition from , by leveraging television exposure and loyal talent like The Destroyer, who offered to wrestle without pay if needed. These efforts enabled steady growth through the , with AJPW expanding its roster and event schedule while maintaining a focus on athletic, king-of-the-ring matches.

Major Championship Eras (1972–1985)

Giant Baba captured the inaugural PWF World Heavyweight Championship on February 27, 1973, in Tokyo, Japan, by completing a tournament-style series of ten matches against prominent international competitors, including Bruno Sammartino (twice), Terry Funk, Dory Funk Jr., and Billy Robinson, finishing with eight victories and two draws. This victory established the title as All Japan Pro Wrestling's premier singles championship, with Baba embodying the promotion's emphasis on competitive, hard-hitting bouts against global talent. His first reign lasted 1,920 days until June 1, 1978, when he lost to Tor Kamata in Akita, Japan, during which he made at least 38 successful defenses, primarily against foreign challengers who tested his endurance and technical prowess. Baba regained the championship on February 10, 1979, defeating in a two-out-of-three-falls match in Chicago, Illinois—following intermediate title changes after his loss to Kamata—to begin his second reign, which extended 1,357 days until October 26, 1982, when Race claimed the title in Obihiro, Japan. Throughout these years, Baba's defenses solidified his "unbreakable" reputation, as he rarely submitted or was pinned cleanly, often prevailing via countout or his signature lariat in matches against hard-edged opponents like the , whose brutal fork attacks and brawling style contrasted Baba's methodical approach. Baba recaptured the PWF title for the third time on February 11, 1983, from Race in , , only to lose it seven months later on September 8, 1983, to in Chiba, , in a bout remembered for Hansen's devastating lariat that finally toppled the giant after a fierce struggle. He reclaimed it once more on July 31, 1984, against Hansen in , marking his fourth reign and extending his dominance into 1985, during which the title intertwined with NWA International lineage to form the backbone of AJPW's division before evolving toward the Triple Crown format later in the decade. These reigns, spanning over 12 years cumulatively with just four losses, underscored Baba's role as the cornerstone of AJPW's championship scene, drawing massive crowds through high-stakes international tours. Amid his title pursuits, Baba engaged in key rivalries with emerging Japanese stars, notably , whose athleticism and power challenged Baba in tournament and league matches throughout the and early , helping pioneer AJPW's "strong style" blend of stiff strikes, suplexes, and that elevated domestic talent. Matches like their December 15, 1975, Open Championship League encounter in and the May 1, 1976, clash in showcased Tsuruta's rise, with Baba securing victories that built tension and groomed his protégé as a future ace while maintaining the promotion's focus on legitimate, intense competition. This dynamic not only preserved Baba's aura of invincibility but also transitioned AJPW toward a new generation, with Tsuruta's challenges emphasizing technical mastery and endurance over mere size.

Late Career and Retirement (1985–1999)

In the mid-1980s, Giant Baba transitioned to a part-time wrestling schedule as he approached his late 40s, influenced by the cumulative physical demands of his career and early concerns, allowing him to prioritize his role as promoter while appearing in select special attraction bouts for (AJPW). This shift enabled Baba to conserve energy for high-profile events, where he often served as a symbolic figurehead rather than a full-time competitor. Throughout the 1990s, Baba's in-ring appearances became infrequent but meaningful, frequently involving team-ups with younger AJPW stars to highlight emerging talent and pass the torch. Notable examples include his participation in the promotion's 25th Anniversary show at on May 1, 1998, teaming with and Kentaro Shiga in a six-man tag match victory over Giant Kimala, , and Jun Izumida. These bouts underscored Baba's mentorship, as he collaborated with wrestlers like to elevate the roster's profile during AJPW's peak popularity. Baba's final match took place on December 5, 1998, at during the Real World Tag League tour, where he teamed with and Rusher Kimura to defeat Haruka Eigen, , and in a six-man contest. Earlier that year, Baba had announced his intention to retire from active competition, framing his remaining appearances as an emotional farewell that emphasized his guiding influence on the promotion's future. This period of winding down aligned with a deliberate farewell effort, including appearances across multiple tours that celebrated his legacy and reinforced bonds with protégés. During these years, Baba's reduced role profoundly shaped AJPW's roster development, as he actively mentored and positioned talents such as , , , and in main events, fostering the deep, hard-hitting style that defined the promotion's success and consistent sold-out crowds at venues like Budokan Hall. His strategic booking ensured a seamless transition to the next generation, solidifying AJPW's status as a global wrestling powerhouse.

Personal Life

Marriage and Family

Shohei Baba, better known as Giant Baba, married Motoko Kawai on September 16, 1971, in a private ceremony held in , a destination he favored for its relaxing environment and frequent visits thereafter. The couple had first connected during Baba's professional baseball days with the in the mid-1950s, when Motoko was a teenager, though their relationship evolved within the broader sports and entertainment circles that later included wrestling. For over a decade, their marriage remained out of the public eye due to cultural and professional considerations in Japan's wrestling industry, only gaining official recognition in 1982 when Motoko was introduced as the second-highest executive at (AJPW), the promotion Baba founded. Motoko Baba became an integral figure in AJPW's operations, leveraging her business acumen to support her husband's vision and eventually assuming control as owner following his death in 1999, and serving as president from 2000 until 2002. Motoko Baba passed away on April 14, 2018, at the age of 78 due to liver cirrhosis. The Babas resided in Tokyo, where they maintained a low-profile family life amid Baba's demanding career, using the city's central location as a stable home base that allowed him to commute efficiently for promotions and events nationwide without uprooting their personal routine. This setup underscored Baba's commitment to work-life balance, enabling him to prioritize AJPW's growth while preserving privacy from the intense media scrutiny of his celebrity status. The couple had no biological children, a deliberate choice influenced by concerns over Baba's potentially being hereditary, which led them to forgo parenthood altogether. Instead, they cultivated deep, familial dynamics with select wrestlers under their promotion, such as and , whom they treated as surrogate family members—offering guidance, support, and a sense of belonging that mirrored parental roles. This adopted family structure provided emotional fulfillment and reinforced the close-knit, paternalistic environment within AJPW, helping the Babas navigate the challenges of fame while fostering loyalty among their "extended family" in the wrestling world.

Philanthropy and Other Ventures

In the wake of the 1995 Hanshin-Awaji Great Earthquake, Giant Baba demonstrated his commitment to by organizing an event in just two days after the , providing emotional support and a sense of normalcy to the devastated region through entertainment and community gathering. This initiative underscored Baba's role in leveraging his platform for relief efforts during one of Japan's most severe natural calamities in the . Baba's philanthropic activities extended to personal outreach, as he reportedly contacted and visited affected members to deliver essential supplies, reflecting his dedication to direct aid without seeking publicity. These actions highlighted his broader contributions to societal welfare beyond the .

Death and Legacy

Illness and Passing (1999)

In late 1998, Giant Baba was diagnosed with colon cancer after experiencing health issues that had begun to affect his late-career appearances. He underwent to remove the tumor from his colon at a hospital, a procedure that initially appeared successful enough for him to be discharged in December 1998, allowing him to resume limited activities. However, the cancer had metastasized to his liver, causing progressive complications including . Baba was readmitted to Tokyo Medical University Hospital on January 22, 1999, where his condition deteriorated rapidly over the following days. On January 31, 1999, at approximately 4:04 p.m. local time, Baba died at the age of 61 from due to metastasized colon cancer, surrounded by his Motoko and close members. In the preceding months, despite his declining , he participated in interviews reflecting on his career milestones, such as founding and his role in elevating the sport's global profile, expressing satisfaction with his legacy while urging the next generation to carry it forward.

Funeral and Tributes

Following his death from colon cancer that had metastasized to the liver on January 31, 1999, Giant Baba's body was cremated after a delay in locating a casket large enough for his 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m) frame. A private funeral service was held on February 5, 1999, attended by over 1,000 wrestlers, family members, and close fans, with the ceremony broadcast live on multiple Japanese television networks, underscoring his status as a national icon. All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) suspended all scheduled events for several weeks in mourning, a move echoed by rival promotions, leading to widespread media coverage of Baba's contributions to and evoking a period of national grief comparable to the loss of a cultural hero. A public memorial service took place on April 17, 1999, at , drawing a large crowd, including wrestlers from AJPW, , and other groups. The following month, AJPW hosted the Giant Baba Memorial Show on May 2, 1999, at , which sold out to 55,000 spectators and featured emotional tributes. delivered a speech honoring Baba's pioneering role in Japanese wrestling, while , Baba's longtime protégé, shared personal reflections on their shared history before Tsuruta's own illness. The event included appearances by international legends like and The Destroyer, who recounted collaborative matches and Baba's global influence. Motoko Baba, Giant Baba's wife and AJPW co-founder, led family tributes throughout the ceremonies, stating in a post-funeral that her husband "devoted his life to wrestling and the fans," vowing to preserve his legacy by continuing the promotion's operations.

Influence on Japanese Wrestling

Giant Baba revolutionized booking practices in Japanese , known as , by strategically integrating foreign talent into high-profile storylines, which created compelling "" angles that drew massive crowds and elevated the industry's appeal. One of his pioneering efforts involved cross-promotions with wrestlers from rival promotions, such as former stars, marking some of the earliest invasion narratives in Japanese wrestling history and fostering intense inter-promotional rivalries. This approach not only diversified matchups but also boosted attendance figures, as seen in events featuring international stars that packed venues and solidified (AJPW) as a global draw. Baba's mentorship played a crucial role in developing the next generation of puroresu talent, particularly stars like and , whom he personally scouted and groomed into main-event fixtures. Misawa, trained directly under Baba alongside influences like and (The Destroyer), rose to become AJPW's ace, embodying the promotion's rigorous standards. Similarly, Baba directed Kawada to form key tag teams and pushed him toward singles prominence, ensuring a seamless transition of star power that kept AJPW competitive. Through these efforts, Baba established AJPW as a formidable rival to Inoki's , with the two promotions dominating the Japanese landscape for decades and driving innovation across the industry. Under Baba's leadership, AJPW championed the "" style, a blend of strong style shoot-fighting elements and athletic endurance matches that prioritized technical prowess, dramatic , and physical intensity over spectacle. This approach, featuring grueling 60-minute bouts that tested wrestlers' limits, shifted global perceptions of Japanese wrestling from novelty to a benchmark for athletic excellence and realism. Baba's emphasis on such matches, often involving foreign invaders clashing with homegrown athletes, inspired international promotions and helped gain respect worldwide for its depth and commitment to in-ring quality. Following Baba's death in 1999, AJPW initially adhered to his foundational vision under the leadership of Motoko Baba, with Mitsuharu Misawa serving as booker while maintaining the core booking philosophy of talent development and international tours. However, irreconcilable differences with Motoko Baba over creative direction led to a pivotal mass exodus in June 2000, where Misawa and most of the roster departed to form Pro Wrestling Noah, effectively splitting AJPW's empire and ushering in a new era of competition that echoed Baba's rivalry-driven legacy. Motoko Baba continued as president until her death on May 14, 2018. This trajectory preserved elements of Baba's innovations into the 2000s, though it marked the decline of AJPW's unchallenged dominance.

Cultural Depictions

In Media and Entertainment

Giant Baba made several appearances in Japanese cinema, often portraying himself as a towering wrestler figure. In the 1970 film Yakuza Deka (also known as The Assassin), he cameo as a wrestler involved in the story's action sequences. Similarly, in the 1988 drama Kaisha Monogatari: Memories of You, Baba appeared as himself, leveraging his celebrity status to add authenticity to scenes depicting corporate and personal struggles. These roles highlighted his physical presence and fame beyond the ring, though he did not pursue as a primary career. On television, Baba frequently guest-starred on variety shows and quiz programs, capitalizing on his 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m) stature and signature chops for comedic effect. He became a mainstream celebrity through Nippon TV, appearing in commercials and light-hearted segments that parodied his height and wrestling persona, endearing him to non-wrestling audiences. These cameos, often alongside celebrities, underscored his cultural icon status in and 1980s . Baba has been featured as a playable character in numerous professional wrestling video games, particularly in the long-running Fire Pro Wrestling series by Spike Chunsoft. Titles such as Fire Pro Wrestling Returns (2005) and Fire Pro Wrestling 2 (2002) include him with accurate movesets, including his iconic chops and slams, allowing fans to recreate historic matches. He also appears in King of Colosseum Red (2002), where his giant frame and signature style are emphasized in gameplay mechanics. In , Baba served as an inspirational figure and direct cameo in wrestling-themed stories. He appears as himself in the classic manga and its anime adaptation, depicted as a colleague and mentor to protagonist Naoto Date, symbolizing the sport's heroic ideals. Additionally, he makes cameo appearances in , often in crowd scenes or as a nod to real-life legends during tournament arcs. In 1996, an animated film titled Apo Apo World: Giant Baba 90-bun 1-hon Shōbu was produced as a , featuring Baba in a stylized, promotional celebrating his career.

Awards and Honors

Giant Baba received numerous accolades throughout his career and posthumously, reflecting his profound influence on and . In 1996, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame, recognizing his pioneering contributions as both a wrestler and promoter in the global wrestling landscape. Two years after his death, Baba was posthumously honored with the Tokyo Sports Special Achievement Award in 1999, acknowledging his lifetime dedication to elevating . In 2008, Baba was inducted into the Hall of Fame in the international category, celebrating his role as a foundational figure in and his international impact. (AJPW), which he co-founded, established annual and special memorial events to honor his legacy, beginning with the Giant Baba Memorial Show on , 1999, at the , which drew over 55,000 fans and featured matches dedicated to his memory. Subsequent tributes, such as the Giant Baba Memorial Spectacular in 2001 and the 20th Anniversary Memorial Show in 2019, continued this tradition, often co-promoted with other organizations to showcase his enduring influence on the industry. The tradition continued with the 25th Anniversary Memorial Show on January 31, 2025, at Korakuen Hall, featuring Taiyo Kea's retirement match and inter-promotional tributes. Baba's early career in also garnered recognition from the , where he pitched from 1955 to 1959; the organization has acknowledged his athletic foundations through alumni tributes, highlighting his transition from the sport to wrestling stardom.

Championships and Accomplishments

Wrestling Titles

Giant Baba was a four-time PWF World Heavyweight Champion, establishing the title as All Japan Pro Wrestling's premier singles championship upon its creation in 1973. His inaugural reign began on February 27, 1973, in , , following a series of victories over international stars including , , and , marking him as the first champion; this reign lasted until October 13, 1975, when he lost to The in a controversial match. Baba's second reign started on February 10, 1979, defeating in , , and endured for 1,354 days—the longest single tenure—until October 26, 1982. He captured the title for a third time on February 11, 1983, defeating in St. Louis, Missouri, holding it for 209 days until dethroned him on September 8, 1983, in Chiba, . Baba won it back for his fourth and final reign on July 31, 1984, against in , holding it for 364 days until losing to on July 30, 1985, in . The PWF title, defended by Baba against notable opponents like and during his reigns, served as a key component in AJPW's lineage until its unification into the in 1989. Baba achieved remarkable success in tag team wrestling, securing the NWA International Tag Team Championship 12 times with various partners across three decades, primarily in the 1960s through 1970s. His earliest reign came on November 5, 1966, partnering with Michiaki Yoshimura to defeat Fritz von Goering and Mike Paidousis in ; they lost the titles shortly after to and . Baba teamed with Inoki for three reigns, starting with their first on October 31, 1967, defeating Tarzan Tyler and in , holding it for 103 days before dropping it to The Funks. Subsequent Inoki partnerships included wins over The Medics in 1968 and The Lawlers in 1970. In the 1970s, Baba paired with Kintaro Oki to defeat and on March 4, 1975, in , reigning for 116 days. His most prolific collaboration was with , yielding six reigns, such as their first on May 11, 1978, against and Goro Tsurumi in , and later defenses against teams like the Road Warriors; one notable reign lasted from October 19, 1979, until April 12, 1983. These reigns highlighted Baba's versatility, with defenses against international challengers like and . Baba was also a three-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion, a landmark achievement as the first Japanese wrestler to hold the title. His first reign began on December 2, 1974, defeating in an event in , lasting one week before losing it back to Brisco on December 9. The second came on September 4, 1980, defeating in , , in another short reign ending shortly after. His third and final NWA World title win was on February 9, 1981, against Race in , also brief. These reigns, though short, elevated Baba's global status and AJPW's prestige through NWA affiliation. The was unified on April 18, 1989, under Baba's leadership at AJPW, combining the PWF World , NWA United National, and NWA International titles into a single prestigious belt. Although Baba did not hold the unified title himself—Jumbo Tsuruta became the inaugural champion by defeating Stan Hansen in the unification match—he had previously championed two of the component belts (PWF World and NWA International ) and defended them extensively in the years leading up to the creation. Baba continued to influence its defenses through 1990 as promoter, with the title symbolizing AJPW's evolution during his active career phase.

Baseball Records

Baba's professional baseball career spanned five seasons from 1955 to 1960, during which he compiled notable performances primarily in the minor leagues. In 1956, his rookie year with the Yomiuri Giants' farm team, he posted a 12-1 record in the Eastern League, earning Pitcher of the Year honors. The following year, 1957, he won 13 games in the minors while appearing in three major league games with a 0-1 record and 1.29 ERA, including a complete game loss in a 1-0 shutout against the Hanshin Tigers. After leaving the Giants following the 1959 season, Baba signed with the Taiyo Whales but was severely limited by arm injuries, managing only five starts with no wins and a 5.68 before retiring from . His towering 6-foot-8 frame provided a natural advantage in pitching, allowing for a steep downward angle on his deliveries.

Promotional Achievements

Baba founded (AJPW) in October 1972 following a dispute with the Japanese Wrestling Association, establishing it as a new promotion with support from Nippon Television. Under his direction as booker and president, AJPW rapidly expanded from its initial tours and small venues, achieving financial stability by the mid-1970s through strategic television broadcasting deals and merchandise sales that capitalized on Baba's star power. By the 1980s, AJPW had grown into Japan's premier wrestling promotion, consistently drawing sellout crowds at Hall, where events regularly attracted over 14,000 fans and established the venue as the company's iconic home base. This era marked the promotion's peak in popularity, fueled by Baba's emphasis on high-quality matches and international appeal. A key innovation was the introduction of the Real World Tag League tournament, first held in but significantly boosted in when Baba and won the event, elevating the division and drawing widespread attention to AJPW's roster depth. The tournament became a cornerstone event, showcasing both domestic stars and international competitors. Baba strengthened AJPW's global standing through close affiliations with the (NWA), which allowed the promotion to host NWA-sanctioned titles and events. He also facilitated tours featuring top talent from promotions like the (AWA) and (WCW), including stars such as the Funker brothers and , which helped integrate international storylines and boosted crossover appeal.

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