Our Vantage Point - Retro Wrestling Podcast

Gorilla Monsoon Canon - with Brian R. Solomon

·1 hr 17 min·5 clips

Joe Murata interviews Brian Solomon about the first true biography of wrestling legend Gorilla Monsoon.

Joe Murata introduces the episode as a special interview with author Brian R. Solomon about his new biography of Gorilla Monsoon, the first comprehensive work on the wrestling legend. Solomon explains his motivation for writing the book, citing the lack of prior coverage on Monsoon's significant role in wrestling history. He discusses Monsoon's early wrestling career, revealing he was Bruno Sammartino's most frequent title challenger, a fact he discovered through research. The conversation covers Monsoon's behind-the-scenes role, including his 25% ownership stake in the Capital Wrestling Corporation and his position as a television producer. Solomon details the complex relationship between Monsoon and Vince McMahon Jr., noting Monsoon called McMahon 'Vinny' and their dynamic was more competitive than familial. A significant portion focuses on Monsoon's commentary partnership with Bobby Heenan, including anecdotes like them calling a high school baseball game and performing on a cruise. Solomon addresses the rumor that Victor Quinones was Monsoon's illegitimate son, definitively debunking it based on family interviews. The discussion touches on Monsoon's relationships with other commentators like Jesse Ventura and Jim Ross. Solomon also explains Monsoon's continued voiceover work into the late 1990s despite health issues. The episode concludes with Solomon promoting his book tour and explaining how Bret Hart came to write the foreword.

As heard by us

A focused, revealing look at the loyalty and friction beneath Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse's commentary partnership.

Gorilla Monsoon Canon - with Brian R. Solomon keeps its attention on Gorilla's working relationship with Jesse, with Solomon's nearly 500-page biography serving as the way in.

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Why you'd press play

Want Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura chemistry with Joe Murata's wrestling-obsessive eye and Brian R. Solomon's biography in the room?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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