Before becoming a pro wrestling legend in both Japan and the U.S., Shohei "Giant" Baba was a member of the Yomiuri Giants! The nearly 6 foot 10 inch pitcher (later billed at 7'2" as a wrestler) joined the Giants in
1955, but pitched in only three games, all during the 1957 season. His subsequent release by the Giants was pro wrestling's gain. In the 1960s and '70s, Baba became a wrestling superstar on two continents. His stateside battles with
Buddy Rogers and Bruno Sammartino in the early 1960s are legendary. In 1974, Baba became NWA World Heavyweight Champion, defeating Jack Brisco. Unfortunately, shortly thereafter, he was the first NWA champion to be defeated by
Nature Boy Ric Flair. This two card JCM 36 Yamakatsu uncut panel also features HOFer Hiroshi Oshita (#2369459) of the Nishitetsu Lions. The Baba card (#7712349) is seldom seen and is quite sought-after by both Japanese and American
collectors.
Size: Each card is 1 13/16" x 3". The uncut pair is 3 5/8" x 3".
Condition: Ex/Mt with small piece of paper attached the back. (The uncut pair was originally issued attached to a prize sheet. The prize sheet residue on the back is therefore not a defect and is considered to be a normal consequence of
issue.)
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