Steve Williams and Kenta Kobashi's Ultimate Risk Revealed!

Pro Wrestling Stories

The "Dangerous Backdrop" finishing move earned its fearsome reputation in a horrifying incident during a match between "Dr. Death" Steve Williams and rising star Kenta Kobashi on August 31, 1993. The move resulted in a life-threatening injury for Kobashi, and shockingly, Williams executed the move two more times in that same match.

Steve Williams vs. Kenta Kobashi: The Night of the Dangerous Backdrop Driver

During the 1990s, devoted hardcore wrestling fans, comprising newsletter subscribers and tape collectors, redirected their attention toward All-Japan Pro Wrestling.

AJPW lacked the flash and innovative booking of New Japan, but the promotion was on fire at supernova levels. Incredible five-star championship main events drove the popularity and numerous sellouts.

Prelude to a Bump

There's been extensive coverage and discussions about the Steve Williams and Kenta Kobashi match that occurred on night ten of the AJPW Summer Action Series II at the City Gymnasium in Toyohashi, Aichi, Japan, on August 31, 1993.

Expect more to be written in the years to come. A great match that concludes with an incomparable ending can deliver historical significance.

Towards the end of their match, the "Dangerous Backdrop" finishing move indeed lived up to its name in a profoundly unsettling manner. Kobashi was left facing the prospect of permanent paralysis and a life-threatening situation. Shockingly, Williams proceeded to execute the move two more times during the same match.

SWIPE UP TO READ THE  FULL POST