Top 5 Biggest Cross-Promotional Matches of All Time
Photo Credit: IMPACT Westling
Although scarce, when two promotions chose to work together, the results can be epic. Whether creating double world champions, dream match-ups or titanic supercards – some of these have been integral to long-term storylines or significant moments in wrestling history. So from New Japan to the AWA to the WWE, these are some of the largest cross-over matches of all time.
5. Antonio Inoki vs Bob Backlund – NJPW Toukon Series 1979 (Tag 29)
Having been WWF champion for 648 days, it took the audience by shock when New Japan god Antonio Inoki pinned Bob Backlund to win the championship in Tokushima, Japan.
On November 30th 1979, beloved white-meat babyface took on Japanese icon Antonio Inoki in a bout for the WWF title. Starting pure and technical, it eventually turned more violent and ruthless. Inoki kicked out of Backlund’s finishing atomic drop before a momentary distraction allowed the stiff striker to hit a Saito suplex and get a 3-count after nearly half an hour of action. Thus, Inoki was crowned the new champion in a shocking twist.
A rematch the next week saw Bob win back the title. However, interference from Tiger Jeet Singh caused controversy, with WWF President Hisashi Shinma holding up the belt. Backlund won the vacated belt by defeating Bobby Duncum in a Texas death match. This meant Inoki looked strong by not having to officially drop back the title belt. WWE does not recognize Antonio Inoki’s reign, despite the monumental cross-over bout.
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