Jumbo Tsuruta vs Tiger Mask II (AJPW - 3/9/1988)

Second. This was actually one of the matches in my nomination on-deck circle. TM is still a member of Jumbo's stable at this point, so this is about a young up-and-comer trying to prove himself against an established veteran rather than a heated grudge match. The opening minutes are an absolute clinic in getting the most out of basic holds as they utilize every trick in the book for working into and out of a headlock. Once the pace picks up, TM busts out some nice flying moves (in particular, the springboard somersault plancha is an insane highspot for someone his size). Jumbo may be the greatest stomper in wrestling history, and I don't know if he ever looked more dangerous than when he was laying the boots to TM here. I also loved him selling his leg after hitting a particularly brutal kneelift. TM having to shake off the damage from Jumbo's shinbreakers before throwing some kicks was another nice subtle touch. Some amazing nearfalls down the stretch, and it takes a third backdrop to finally put TM away. The best Tiger Mask-era Misawa match by some distance.