10 Superstars' Best Matches Oustide Of WWE

Some of WWE's finest talent have built their legacies in NJPW, ROH and the indies.

steen generico
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WWE no longer shut out the greater wrestling world as they have done in years past. Tournaments now feature outside talent. The NXT roster boasts talent from a wide range of backgrounds, with a plethora of different styles. The commentary team on Raw and SmackDown even acknowledge the outside work of Finn Bálor, AJ Styles and other New Japan exports.

So many Superstars have lasting legacies outside of the WWE. They had matches in front of a few hundred people, matches in front of tens of thousands. This list of matches shows the real reason these guys made it to WWE. Their work made them simply undeniable.

If you've ever thought about learning the origins of your favourite WWE superstars, this list is a good place to start. It may make you question some of WWE's booking decisions, but the main reason for this list is simply to celebrate wrestling in all its forms. These men might have left these companies behind, but by following them, you'll get in on the ground level for the stars of tomorrow.

If you fancy, leave a comment about other hidden gems in the histories of WWE Superstars.

10. Finn Balor Vs Kota Ibushi Vs Low Ki - NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 7

Finn Bálor's legacy in New Japan will always be heavily linked with starting one of the most popular factions in wrestling, The Bullet Club. It shouldn't be forgotten though that he put in some outstanding performances in NJPW, especially when the lights were shining brightest.

Wrestle Kingdom 7 marks the first time Okada and Tanahashi headlined the Tokyo Dome, but it certainly wasn't the only match worth talking about. Finn Bálor, Kota Ibushi and Low Ki competed in a rare triple threat for Bálor's IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship. Bálor's crispness, Ibushi's athleticism and Low Ki's reckless abandon all came together beautifully, with the Irishman leaving with his title.

As great as Finn was in this match, Low Ki needs to get some sort of award for 'Most Intense Match Ever Wrestled in a Full Suit.'

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University of Edinburgh student, freelance writer and all-round banter merchant.