Misawa/Kawada/Kikuchi vs. Jumbo/Fuchi/Taue (AJPW 8/18/1990)

Gets overshadowed by 5/26/1990 and 10/19/1990, but this makes for a fantastic middle chapter in a 1990 trilogy of amazing 6-mans. This is one of those matches where you can just tell everyone involved decided to go all out. Even the crowd is awesome. Predictably, the most interesting parts involve Jumbo and Misawa, who have some epic staredowns and fiery strike exchanges that really sell the idea of these two fighting for top dog in the promotion. Kawada hadn't quite worked out his character yet, but he's fun to watch here as he tries to be a workratey white meat babyface who doesn't shy away from slapping Jumbo when he gets the chance. Kikuchi is pretty reliable for car crash bumps and comedic moments where he bites off more than he can chew. From what I could gather, this was the first big match from after Taue turned to Jumbo's side, and there's a noticeable hesitation from him in attacking his former teammates whenever he's in the ring. Kind of telling that his biggest offensive moment prior the finish involves him being motioned by Fuchi to attack Kikuchi on the outside. All that gives a significance to the finish as the moment where Taue truly gained Jumbo and Fuchi's respect, and closed the door on teaming with Misawa.