I still need to see that match.
Re Kobashi:
He's still fun to watch, despite not working smart matches like he did in the past. The fact that he puts himself through obscene amounts of punishment today after taking some of the more hellacious beatings in prowrestling history during the 90's is a testament to his dedication for the business. He's arguably the greatest champion in pro-wrestling today, too, with the IWGP title being passed around like a hot potato and All Japan being the #3 company.
I do believe he's running out of challengers for the GHC title, much like Samoa Joe is for the ROH title, simply due to the length of the reign. It'll be interesting to see who beats him for the title, just as long as it isn't Misawa.