20 Best Wrestling Tag Team Matches Ever
2. Akira Taue & Toshiaki Kawada Vs. Kenta Kobashi & Mitsuharu Misawa (AJPW - June 9th, 1995)
Never mind “best tag team matches” - Misawa & Kobashi vs. the Holy Demon Army in June 1995 is one of the greatest wrestling matches of all-time, regardless of stipulation.
There were no high spots, weapons, or shenanigans here: just pure, uncomplicated competition, with each man playing a clearly defined role. Kobashi excelled as the underdog, selling his injured leg like it was about to fall off as the vicious Kawada laid into it throughout. Taue held-up his end of the bargain too, picking the limb apart with ruthless efficiency, coming across like a savage monster in the process.
Misawa was his usual excellent self, but you’ll struggle to find a better babyface performance than the one put forth by Kobashi in this match. His selling aside, there was an exquisite spot towards the end where Kobashi puts his own body on the line to protect Misawa, his friend, by covering him as Kawada & Taue laid into him. A heart-wrenching moment, and defeat was right around the corner.
The heels were victorious in a bout where each man did their job to perfect. When people rave about 1990s AJPW, this is exactly the kind of match they’re talking about. It’s long (45+ minutes), but it’s absolutely deserving of any fan’s attention, particular tag team enthusiasts.