Wrestlemania weekend is upon us and I thought I'd share a few vintage Japanese puroresu "pro wrestling" cards of Antonio Inoki. Arguably the most famous Japanese pro wrestler out there, Inoki was able to bring pro wrestling to the mainstream in Japan...much like Vince McMahon did in the United States. This 17-card set of Popy cards from 1981 famously features Hulk Hogan's rookie card as well as an early Andre the Giant card. They came inserted in blister packs along with vinyl figures, but nowadays they are extremely hard to find. Does anyone else collect these?
There are a lot of wrestling collectors amongst the bloggers, many of whom I'm sure would love to get their hands on some of these.
ReplyDeleteThis set overall is tough to put together. Even harder now during the card craze.
DeleteNever seen or heard of these cards before. Very cool. But wait... you're telling me Inoki is more famous than Asuka? Regardless... she's definitely easier to look at.
ReplyDeleteInoki is old-school famous, no doubt. This is one set I wish I would have put together 3-4 years ago.
DeleteI don't collect them but do admire them. Very cool set！
ReplyDeleteThese are pretty unique and cool. Definitely hard to find.
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