Author: Today in Pro Wrestling History: On April 16th 1994, New Japan Pro Wrestling hosts the Super J Cup, a tournament originally conceived by Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger, as a showcase for promotions from Asia and North America.
The inaugural invitational was won by Wild Pegasus (Chris Benoit), who defeated The Great Sasuke in the finals.
Today in Pro Wrestling History: (April 16) – The Birth of the Super J Cup
Of note: Pegasus was awarded the now defunct WWWF Junior Heavyweight Championship belt as a trophy.
In subsequent years, wrestlers representing Lucha Libre AAA and ECW would also participate in the tournament. After 1995, the tournament took a five-year hiatus before returning in 2000.
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"Evan Ginzburg’s stories are a love letter to wrestling, filled with heart, humor, and history. A must-read for any true fan." — Keith Elliot Greenberg
Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Sets is the latest book from Pro Wrestling Stories Senior Editor Evan Ginzburg. 100 unforgettable stories—from sharing a flight on 9/11 with a WWE Hall of Famer to untold moments in wrestling history. A page-turner for fans of the ring and beyond. Grab your copy today! For signed editions, click here.
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