Irresistible Force

The Life and Times of Gorilla Monsoon

By: Brian R. Solomon

Narrated by: 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

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

Great book

I grew up listening to gorilla and the brain. This is one of the best books I have ever read/listened to. Cannot recommend enough if you're a wrestling fan.

Amazing Book

The research and pace is fantastic. Learned many new things about Gino and the history of the (W)WWF.

Gino Monsoon 4 Life

As a big Gorilla Monsoon fan, this book was perfect. What an amazing, generous, funny, and warm human being.
Thanks for all the memories, Gino Monsoon!

Gorilla 🦍 Monsoon

The Audiobook was a little too detailed in his amateur wrestling career and sports in college. But after that the book became a delightful insight into the man, the business and the WWF.