9. Yuji Nagata and Tiger Mask

Like Suzuki and TAKA, the team of Nagata and Tiger Mask is unconventional because it is a team with a Jr heavyweight.

Since debuting in 1992, Nagata has proved why he is one of the best wrestlers in the world.

Holding the IWGP Jr tag belts, Tiger Mask will want to showcase that juniors are just as good and can hold up against much bigger men.

With nearly have a century of experience between them, they will be out to prove that they can still go.

If Tiger Mask can give some of his saltiness to Nagata, they have the potential to cause some upsets, even if they can’t win the whole thing.

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8. Hiroyoshi Tenzan and Satoshi Kojima

When it comes to iconic tag teams in New Japan, you can’t forget Hiroyoshi Tenzan and Satoshi Kojima, aka Tencozy!

Despite their age, the members of the Third Generation Club are back after two years to prove that they still have it.

Satoshi Kojima continues to prove that he can hang with the fresh talent as he travelled to America and wrestled some of the best in All Elite Wrestling.

Tenzan continues to stick to his roots and utilise his Mongolian Chops.

Together, they are still a force to be reckoned with and, although they might not win, they will show that they can still go at a top-level.

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7. Hiroshi Tanahashi and Toru Yano

If there was ever an odder team in New Japan, then it’s Hiroshi Tanahashi and Toru Yano.

After Jay White joined Bullet Club, an unofficial alliance was formed between Hontai and CHAOS. This team is pure evidence of that.

After losing the US title to KENTA, Tanahashi will be out to prove he still belongs in the title picture.

Yano will want to go unbeaten to protect his beloved KOPW trophy, but can the two work together?

Despite their differences, this chaotic pairing could be underestimated.

With Tanahashi’s heart and popularity with Yano’s willingness to break the rules, this team could be a match made in heaven.

• Tetsuya Naito
• new japan pro wrestling
• World Tag League
• NJPW

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