Giant Baba

Shohei Baba (馬場 正平, Baba Shōhei, January 23, 1938 – January 31, 1999) was a Japanese professional wrestler and co-founder of All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW), best known by his ring name Giant Baba. Along with Antonio Inoki, he became one of the most famous Japanese wrestlers of his era, with a popularity in Japan comparable to Hulk Hogan's in the United States. He was a three times NWA World Heavyweight Champion.

Professional baseball career

Before entering professional wrestling he had been a professional baseball pitcher for the Yomiuri Giants, and was signed at the age of 17. Baba, who was issued jersey number 59, was a member of the organization for at least five years. It appears however, he spent most of his time in the minor leagues. He appeared in only three games with the Giants, and recorded a record of 0-1.

It was around this time when national wrestling hero and owner of the Japanese Wrestling Association (JWA) Mitsuhiro Momota - better known as Rikidōzan - began to feel the time was right for him to start grooming a successor in order to keep business strong.