Irresistible Force

The Life and Times of Gorilla Monsoon

De: Brian R. Solomon

Narrado por: Brian R. Solomon

This first-ever biography of wrestling legend Gorilla Monsoon features a detailed career timeline exploring his groundbreaking contributions to the sport.

A crucial figure in the development of what would eventually become the juggernaut known as WWE, Robert "Gino" Marella, better known as Gorilla Monsoon, has never had his whole story told—until now.

From his wrestling days as the rampaging monster who sold out Madison Square Garden and challenged world champion Bruno Sammartino dozens of times, to his pivotal role behind the scenes as part owner and would-be successor to Vince McMahon Sr., to his days as the beloved television commentator who narrated the memories of millions of young fans, Gorilla Monsoon is one of the most fascinating figures in pro wrestling history.

It's a story that starts with the aspirations of the son of Italian immigrants who becomes a national standout in collegiate wrestling and an Olympic hopeful, then takes an unlikely trajectory through the bizarre world of pro wrestling, eventually landing him in what was then known as the WWWF. He wound up owning one-quarter of the company before his 33rd birthday, and after a Hall of Fame career that saw him wrestle Muhammad Ali and box André the Giant, among many other things, he settled into a very high-profile position during the golden age of WrestleMania and Hulkamania, forming fondly remembered commentary teams with Bobby "The Brain" Heenan and Jesse "The Body" Ventura.

His name and his voice are etched deep in the memory of wrestling fans the world over. This is his incredible story.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2025 Brian R. Solomon (P)2025 Podium Audio

history of wrestling

one of best book about old time wrestling must read love this book wish there more

Fantastic in every way !!

An amazing account of a wrestling legend who did everything behind the scenes announcing so influential in every way.His career is absolutely amazing and this book documents it perfectly

A great biography, with incredible detail, about an even greater man..

I was born in 82 and have been watching pro wrestling literally my entire life as my father and grandfather were both fans. Growing up watching the WWF, you became pretty familiar with the commentary of Gorilla Monsoon. I was always a fan of his as a kid because he was always keeping Bobby Heenan in line and was a big supporter of my favorite wrestlers. I remember my dad telling me he used to be a really mean "bad guy" wrestler. I couldn't even picture that in my head. This book covers Gorilla's entire life. It's one of those special books you can't stop listening to and you don't want to to end. I recommend this book to anyone that is a fan of biographies.

The Gorilla Position

Tremendous listen and read on the life of one of the forefathers of the WWE then WWF. Even as a lifetime fan, you will find new stories and even things you didnt know about Gorilla Monsoon especially his relationship or lack of with Vince McMahon. God speed Gorilla.

what an Amazing, Incredible Man

Growing up in the Midwest in y he 60's and 70's, I didn't know of Geno/Gorilla Monson until the 80's when WWF was taking over the Wrestling Wotld. And I didn't know of his Wrestling legacy until now. I am so pleased that this book was written of someone I had admired as an announcer but now I know that he was the true Heart of the WWF/WWE. Thank you.