Long Before Jeff Hardy, There Was Hayabusa

Today's WWE fans go wild every time the "Rainbow Haired Warrior" makes his way to the ring. But long before Jeff Hardy ever jumped off the top, there were many men that led the high flying way.

From Dynamite Kid to Flying Brian to Jushian Thunder Liger there have many men that have captured the hearts and imaginations of fans. But of all the names, there is one that comes to my mind that never quite got the attention the others recieved. His name is Hayabusa.

Hayabusa is one of Japan's most innovative and prolific high flyers. Learning his craft from the FMW Dojo and Rey Mysterio's uncle, Rey Mysterio Sr., Hayabusa has been able to couple the Lucha Libre and shoot base styles seamlessly.

He is so smooth in the ring that he can make opponents of all shapes and styles look like a million bucks. He's squared off with established stars like Mike Awesome, Jushin Thunder Liger, a tag bout against RVD and Sabu (in his only ECW appearance) and many more.

Ever heard of the the whisper in the wind? It was perfected by Hayabusa. But this is only one of the high flying moves Hayabusa put on the map.

Hayabusa was so good in the air, you might think that a shooting star press, 450 splash and springboard somersault senton was as common as a headlock.

While Jeff Hardy was released by the WWE, he was sitting at home painting and writing and recording music, which led Hayabusa to say "Been there, done that."

Not only has the Falcon recorded music, he released an album in '07, but he also designed the shirts for Dragon Gate's American tour.

But unlike Hardy, Hayabusa carried the hardcore based Frontier Martial Arts promotion. 

Although he was paralyzed back in 2001, the Falcon is said to be up and walking and has already teased a return. And if he were ever able to get healthy what a dream match Hardy versus Hayabusa would be.

If you have never had the pleasure of watching Hayabusa, check out the link at the start of this article and you wont be disapointed.

This week on Hit the Ropes Radio, it's Indy Week. We'll have a couple Michigan based promotions on, plus the second installment of Turnbuckle to Turnbuckle and our TNA Trivia and giveaway.