Tag Team Titans: The Apollo 55 Story

For four years, from 2009 to 2013, the wrestling world was treated to the dynamic duo known as Apollo 55. Comprised of Finn Bálor and Ryusuke Taguchi, this tag team partnership brought a unique blend of athleticism, charisma, and pure entertainment value to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW).

Their first match together took place on April 5, 2009, marking the beginning of a remarkable run that would see them claim the coveted IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship. Over the course of their partnership, Apollo 55 consistently pushed the boundaries of what was possible in a tag team setting.

Bálor and Taguchi's contrasting styles created a synergy that was both unpredictable and captivating. The Irish-born Bálor brought his signature blend of power and agility to the table, while the Japanese veteran Taguchi offered his own brand of high-flying excitement. Together, they formed an unstoppable force that opponents struggled to contain.

Apollo 55's impressive title reign included multiple successful defenses, further solidifying their status as one of the premier tag teams in NJPW. Their matches were always a treat for fans, featuring innovative combinations and a palpable energy that was impossible to ignore.

Though their time together ultimately came to an end on April 7, 2013, Apollo 55 left behind a lasting legacy in the world of professional wrestling. Theirs is a story of two individuals who, when combined, created something truly special – a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring appeal of tag team wrestling at its finest.
Members: Finn Balor and Ryusuke Taguchi
Promotions: NJPW

Facts

Apollo 55: A Legacy in Pro-Wrestling Tag Teams

• Apollo 55's most notable achievement is winning the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship, a testament to their skill and teamwork.

• The team was formed in 2009 when Finn Balor (Fergal Devitt) and Ryusuke Taguchi (Ryusuke Taguchi) first stepped into the ring together on April 5th.

• Apollo 55's career spanned four years, with matches taking place across various promotions including New Japan Pro Wrestling, Pro Wrestling NOAH, DDT Pro Wrestling, and Active Advance Pro Wrestling.

• Finn Balor brought a technician's approach to the ring, combining high-flying moves with technical grappling skills. Ryusuke Taguchi, on the other hand, relied on his comedic timing and gimmicks to engage the crowd.

• Apollo 55's last match took place on April 7th, 2013, marking the end of their time as a tag team.

• During their active years, Apollo 55 worked with some of the most talented wrestlers in the industry, developing their skills and reputation through experience and competition.

• The duo was known for their quickness, agility, and ability to adapt to any situation within the ring. Their chemistry and trust in each other allowed them to execute complex moves seamlessly.

• Throughout their career, Apollo 55 faced a range of opponents, from up-and-coming talents to established stars, showcasing their versatility and willingness to take on all comers.

• Finn Balor would go on to have a successful singles career, while Ryusuke Taguchi continued to work in the ring, entertaining fans with his unique blend of wrestling and comedy.

• Apollo 55's legacy extends beyond their impressive title wins and match statistics – they helped shape the landscape of pro-wrestling tag teams, paving the way for future duos to follow in their footsteps.