Honda GC190 QHAF engine won't start

I bought this motor a few years ago on an Excell pressure washer.  The motor has been lying on it's side since then.   I have flushed the fuel lines and replaced the gas with non-ethanol, replaced the carb due to corrosion, installed a new plug properly gapped, the spark looks strong, pulled the valve cover and the valves are free and the valve train seems to work properly, the cam looks fine, I pulled the flywheel and the keyway is at TDC when the piston is tdc.  The cylinder is not full of oil from lying on it's side.  The engine will not attempt to start when spraying gas into the spark plug opening.  The engine backfires through the carb when attempting to start.  Every second or third pull on the starter rope the compression seems extremely high, almost impossible to pull.  No sign of a low oil sensor on the engine.  Am I correct to assume that as long as the piston and the keyway line up that the timing belt is installed properly or not a tooth off?  What else can the problem be?  Thanx in advance for any suggestions.