Top 6 Most Successful IWGP Jr Tag Team Champions

4. Roppongi 3K (SHO & YOH)

Currently in their fifth reign as IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Champions, YOH and SHO have had varied success during their time with the titles. However, it is impossible not to notice their dedication and love for Jr tag wrestling. This has been evident since they graduated from the dojo and made their debut as Roppongi 3K.

After returning from excursion in 2017, the duo made their presence known. In their first match back at King of Pro Wrestling, they beat Funky Future (Ricochet & Ryusuke Taguchi) for their inaugural title reign. They also quickly made history by becoming the first team to win the Super Jr. Tag League as champions.

The one criticism of the duo is their inability to defend their titles successfully. It wasn’t until the third reign that the duo managed to defend the titles and even after that, they could never reach more than two. Their fourth reign was their most successful as they successfully defended the titles twice. Unfortunately, they had to relinquish the belts after YOH was injured.

By training in the dojo and going on their excursion together, their in-ring chemistry is second to none despite their different styles and personalities. With so many reigns and being the only team to win the Super Jr. Tag League three times, their impact on the division is undeniable. After a roller coaster journey, the two are hoping that this reign can really showcase the duo’s chemistry in the ring and ability to elevate the division to new heights.

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3. Apollo 55 (Prince Devitt & Ryusuke Taguchi)

Apollo 55 is definitely one of the most iconic New Japan tag teams in history. From Prince Devitt and Ryusuke Taguchi’s in-ring offence, personalities and ring gear, they definitely stood out from all other teams. Yet, despite all the flash, they were a phenomenal wrestling team which is why they have made it this high on the list.

The group was formed in January 2009 and within a few months, the team secured their first title reign beating Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin. This was their most successful reign at 290 days. They took challenges from all teams from Dick Togo and Gedo, Unione (Milano Collection AT & TAICHI), and Averno and Ultimo Guerrero during this time.

Even though the team only held the title four times, they have the second-highest number of combined defences at 13. Throughout this time, they used their charisma and talents to bring a new level to the tag division. With a combined 673 days holding the titles, they made each reign count.

With their larger-than-life concept and personalities, they were not only talented but won the hearts of fans. When Devitt turned heel and the team split, it was heart-breaking. Even though the team only lasted 4 years, they cemented their legacy in the junior tag division and the hearts of fans.

• new japan pro wrestling
• Finn Balor
• NJPW
• The Young Bucks

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