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Horst Hoffman vs Giant Baba 12/18/75

Horst Hoffman week continues with another look back on his '75 tour of All Japan. This viewing features a match with headliner/owner Giant Baba. Critics of Baba's work would do well to judge it in the context of the totality of his career. While early footage tends to be sparse, for a period spanning decades he was a credible presence who drew money even in the face of language barriers. I'd peg Baba as a man of stand out size who had a solid grasp of the fundamentals. Even many years past his physical prime he consistently projected an aura in AJPW that carried him through as a box office draw and crowd favorite. Watch his steady mix of basic moves, comedy and charisma as he works a match with the stoic Hoffman that noticeably connects with the audience. RIP

Giant Baba LOW Official Card