The three most successful Japanese Top League sides

Being the highest level of rugby competition in Japan, the Top League title has been claimed by 4 different teams since it kicked off in 2003, with one team winning it 5 times.

We look at the top 3 teams that have knocked through the most knockout stages to claim the title as the leaders of the league.

3. Sungoliath

Suntory Sungoliath got their first Top League victory in the 2007/08 season against Wild Knights, a match that was followed by two consecutive victories in 2011/12 and 2012/13, recording 3 title wins so far for the men in yellow.

2. Panasonic Wild Knights

Formerly known as Sanyo Wild Knights for sponsorship reasons, the team has claimed 4 titles, with their recent win being in the 2015/16 against Brave Lupus.

In 2014, the team's strength was tested when Head Coach Norifumi Nakajima, who lead the team to their 2010/11 and 2013/14 victories, left the club with former Wallabies Head Coach Robbie Dean taking over and continuing the winning spirit, leading the team to two consecutive title wins in 2014/15 and 2015/16 seasons.

1. Brave Lupus

Brave Lupus have won the title a record of 5 times, becoming the team with the most title wins, matching in brave form to their first match victory in 2004/05.

A shocking loss to Sungoliath in 2007 saw Brave Lupus' first defeat after 3 back-to-back title wins in 2004, 2005 and 2006.

They noted their mistakes and got back on the field the following season, winning two more victories, one after the other in 2008 and 2009.

The 2016 Top League title is currently being contested, with Jubilo leading the table with 4 wins in 4 matches.