All Asia Tag Team Championship
A legendary belt bridging generations and defining the golden age of Japanese tag team wrestling, defended across multiple promotions and revived in 2021 by AJPW.
The All Asia Tag Team Championship is a historic professional wrestling tag team title that originated in the Japan Wrestling Association (JWA) in 1955, later adopted by All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW). Despite its name, it has never been affiliated with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) or its IWGP titles. For decades, it remained a prestigious belt in the Asian circuit, symbolizing dominance in tag team wrestling across multiple promotions, including defenses in Pro Wrestling Noah and Big Japan Pro Wrestling during interpromotional periods.
- Notable Defenders
- ['The Great Muta & Tajiri']
Lore & Background
Throughout its history, the championship has witnessed some of the most iconic rivalries in Japanese wrestling, primarily within All Japan Pro Wrestling. It was often used to showcase the next generation of superstars, allowing young talents to prove themselves against established veterans. The title's prestige remained high even as other belts were created, maintaining a special place in AJPW's hierarchy as a symbol of endurance and excellence for tag teams that could dominate across multiple promotions.
In Their Own Story
The arena lights dimmed, casting long shadows over the canvas where two legends stood ready. The crowd roared, not just for the match, but for the history hanging around their waists—the All Asia Tag Team Championship. With a grip on the ropes and eyes locked in determination, they knew this wasn't just about winning; it was about carrying the torch of decades past into a new era.
Reader's Guide
The original design featured a classic gold plate with distinct Asian motifs, which has undergone several aesthetic updates over the decades to reflect modern tastes while retaining its core identity. The championship has been held by some of the greatest duos in history, including the legendary Tiger Mask and Jushin Thunder Liger, as well as the powerhouse teams of the 2000s. It served as a crucial proving ground for future IWGP Tag Team Champions, with many teams using it to build momentum before capturing the top prize. Record-breaking reigns have included long stretches by dominant teams that held the belt for over a year, cementing their legacy in the annals of NJPW history. Despite periods of dormancy or de-emphasis, the title has consistently returned as a vital part of the promotion's roster, celebrating the rich tradition of tag team wrestling.
Did You Know?
- The All Asia Tag Team Championship was created by the JWA in 1955, making it one of the oldest tag team titles in Japan, and was later adopted by AJPW.
- It has been held by numerous future legends, and has been defended in promotions beyond AJPW, including Pro Wrestling Noah and Big Japan Pro Wrestling.
- The title was revived by AJPW in 2021 and has been actively defended since then, contrary to earlier reports of inactivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the All Asia Tag Team Championship?
This historic title originated in New Japan Pro Wrestling during the late 1970s as a regional championship representing dominance across the Asian circuit. It stands today as one of the oldest active tag team belts in Japanese professional wrestling history.
Why was this championship created?
The belt was conceived to symbolize supremacy for tag teams operating on both singles and tag divisions within Asia, quickly evolving into a prestigious honor beyond its initial regional scope. For decades, it served as a critical stepping stone for elite talent before they ascended to the IWGP Tag Team Championship.
Which famous teams have defended this title?
Legendary duos such as The Great Muta and Jushin Thunder Liger, along with Kensuke Sasaki and Togi Makabe, are among the most notable champions in its history. These defenses helped define the golden age of Japanese tag team wrestling.
Is the All Asia Tag Team Championship still active?
Yes, the championship remains an active title within New Japan Pro Wrestling's roster today. Its continuous lineage makes it a unique bridge connecting different generations of wrestlers over nearly five decades.
What is the significance of this belt in NJPW history?
It holds immense historical weight as one of the most prestigious belts ever awarded, often serving as a primary benchmark for tag team excellence before the IWGP titles became the dominant standard. Its legacy endures as a symbol of sustained dominance across the Asian wrestling landscape.