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Brody: The Triumph and and Tragedy of Wrestling's Rebel

Posted: Sep 2nd 2007 By: CMBurnham

Larry Matysik has done just about everything in the crazy world of professional wrestling.

He helped legendary promoter Sam Muchnick run the St. Louis Wrestling Club for 13 years and brought "Wrestling at the Chase" into thousands of homes on KPLR (Channel 11).

Two years ago, Matysik turned author with "Wrestling at the Chase." His new topic is a serious look at the career, life and horrible death of "Bruiser Brody," Frank Goodish.

Matysik and Barbara Goodish, Brody's widow, have combined to write "Brody: The Triumph and Tragedy of Wrestling's Rebel." While many recent books about professional wrestlers and the business are one-sided rehashings of tales and careers, this story is unique and to the point.

The first chapter sets the tone with a detailed account of how Brody was stabbed to death by wrestler Jos? Gonzales before a match in the dressing room at Juan Loubriel Stadium in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, on July 16, 1988. Investigators still don't know the motive for the killing; theories include Brody's stand-up personality and a possible feud with a promoter.

The remainder of the book deals with Brody's personality and character as a wrestler in a tough business and as a family man.

In a profession in which performers often are treated and viewed by promoters as objects, Brody was an outspoken, vocal wrestler who stood up for what he thought he deserved. Matysik tracks Brody's career, offering insight into the business side of wrestling and Brody's persona inside and outside of the ring.

Brody was one of the top draws for the St. Louis Wrestling Club during the late 1970s and '80s. His reputation as a hard worker and performer helped him become a star in St. Louis under Muchnick. Matysik did his homework here, talking to numerous people who were in the dressing room and on the card the night Brody was murdered.

Tags: Bruiser Brody