How did Bruiser Brody Die? The tragic story behind WWE Superstar Bruiser Brody’s death
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Bruiser Brody
Bruiser Brody (Frank Goodish) is considered to be the original rebel in the world of pro wrestling. His massive 6’8” build could only be complimented by his larger-than-life personality. His unbridled fury had the ability to shut down the whole country of Japan!
Brody was so popular in Japan that whenever he wrestled in the country, the whole nation would literally come to a standstill. They considered Brody to be the toughest man ever in the whole world.
On July 16, 1988, Brody was in the locker room before his match in Bayamon (Puerto Rico). A fellow wrestler, Jose Huertas Gonzalez called Brody into the shower area to discuss business despite the fact that Gonzalez and Brody used to hate each other. Brody was infamous for often beating up Gonzalez during their matches, instead of wrestling according to the script.
One day, a scuffle broke out between the two, and two loud screams were heard by the entire locker room thereafter. Wrestler Tony Atlas ran to the shower and saw Brody holding his stomach and Gonzalez with a knife. Gonzalez swung the knife again as Atlas pulled Brody. The sheer power of the swing cut off Brody’s ponytail.
By that time, the entire locker room gathered and Brody also realized the severity of his wounds. He told several wrestlers to take care of his family and to tell his wife that he loved her. The medics took an hour to reach Brody, due to heavy traffic and large crowds in and around the arena.
Due to Brody’s massive size, the paramedics weren’t even able to lift him. Jake Atlas helped the medic but Brody eventually succumbed to his stab wounds. In 1989, Gonzalez was acquitted of the murder, after the prosecution witness failed to show up. These witnesses claimed that they received their summons after the trial had ended!
Bruiser Brody’s wrestling career
Brody was not just a massive star in Japan, crowds used to flock to the arenas everywhere in the world where Brody was performing. The wrestling scene was quite different back in the day when Brody used to perform. Today the industry is dominated by World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).
During those times, there were independent state and regional wrestling promotions everywhere. The rules were not as strict as they are today. This allowed Brody to use his raw, brute power to destroy his opponents. Not only inside the ring, but Brody was also a rebel, outside the ring too.
Bruiser Brody would often confront promoters over pay, storylines, constant travelling and most importantly – the lack of respect. Brody felt disrespected when he wasn’t allowed to win the World’s Heavyweight Wrestling title. The promoters used to believe that although his menacing style and rage generated a lot of ticket sales, it wouldn’t suit the Championship.
Also Read: How did Chyna Die? The tragic story behind WWE Superstar Chyna’s death
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Sanchit Chandalia
(1378 Articles Published)