Continuing to share obscure Japanese Wrestling collectibles with the world, I present blog
#260 which squares off against Utsugiyo's Imperial Pro-Wrestling Federation figures.
by Japanese toymaker Utsugiyo in 2015.
Each figure stands about 4.5 - 5 inches (which is less than half the size of older Sofubi figures
released in Japan). The design of the figures are meant to resemble the traditional Bullmark
sofubi figures from the 60's and early 70's.
Design-wise, Utsugiyo states that the Champion Series two-pack features two protagonists:
Larry Blackhole and Bear the Ted.
Personally speaking, I think Larry is based on Thunderlips. The hat and handlebar mustache,
plus IGWP-inspired belt seem reminiscent of Hulk's likeness. Additionally, I feel Bear the
Ted is a tribute to Tiger Mask and Bruiser Brody (note Ted's furry boot coverings).
The Champion Series two-pack originally sold for 14,000 yen ($117 USD), which also came
with a colouring book and poster. The poster's design was meant to replicate the look of classic Puroresu posters from the 1960's (specifically, the JWA).
Just like Thunderlips in Rocky III, Blackhole also features a cape of his own.
Only 27 sets were created, and anyone who didn't pre-order by May 7th had to be entered into
a lottery in hopes of bagging the pair.
If you thought $117 for two miniature sofubi's was a tad much, be prepared to feast your eyes
on the following:
Utsugiyo released a special variant set that was only available over the weekend.
Unlike the original Champion Series set, this special two-pack included multiple
removable accessories. Teddy's vest chains and beard look reminiscent of Bruiser
Brody here.
Released in 2018, this special set was sold for a jaw dropping 49,999 yen ($367 USD
plus shipping!). Welcome to the expensive world soft vinyl 'designer art toys'.
The only known photo I could find of the packaged Black Friday version. I wonder if the
extra accessories are tucked away inside the packaging, or were removed at the last second?
We may never know.
At 1 to $400+, would you consider hunting down these designer art Wrestling figures?
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