When we talk of legendary figures in the world of professional wrestling, André the Giant is a name that quickly tops the list. But behind this colossal figure was the equally impactful figure of his father, Boris Roussimouff.
This post will explore the life and influence of Boris Roussimouff, the man behind the legend.
Who Was Boris Roussimoff?
Boris Roussimoff was born on March 15, 1907 in Ribaritsa, a small village in Bulgaria. Little is known about his early life, but we do know that he eventually made his way to France, where he settled down and started a family.
Boris was a hardworking man who provided for his wife and children through manual labor jobs. He was also a gentle giant, standing at an impressive height of 6 feet 8 inches (2.03 meters). This genetic trait would later be passed down to his son André, who reached an astonishing 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 meters) in adulthood.
Family Connection: Father Of André the Giant
Boris Roussimoff’s claim to fame is undoubtedly his role as the father of André the Giant. Born André René Roussimoff on May 19, 1946 in Grenoble, France, André would go on to become one of the most recognizable figures in professional wrestling and popular culture. From an early age, it was clear that André had inherited his father’s extraordinary height.
By the time he was 12 years old, André already stood at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters) tall and weighed 240 pounds (110 kg). Boris supported his son’s athletic pursuits and encouraged him to embrace his unique size.
Early Years
Not much is known about Boris Roussimoff’s childhood in Bulgaria. He likely grew up in a rural village and faced the challenges of poverty and limited opportunities. Despite these hardships, Boris developed a strong work ethic and a determination to build a better life for himself.
At some point, Boris made the decision to leave Bulgaria and seek his fortune elsewhere. He eventually settled in France, where he found work as a manual laborer. It was there that he met his wife, Mariann, and started a family.
Life In France
Boris Roussimoff built a simple but happy life for himself in France. He worked hard to provide for his family, taking on jobs in construction and farming. Boris was a dedicated husband and father who always put his family first. Despite the challenges of raising a son with gigantism, Boris and Mariann did their best to give André a normal childhood. They encouraged him to pursue his interests and supported his athletic endeavors. Boris was a constant source of love and guidance for his children.
Boris Roussimoff’s Professional Career
While Boris Roussimoff never achieved the same level of fame as his son, he did have a successful career in his own right. He worked for many years as a manual laborer, using his strength and size to his advantage. Boris was known for his hard work and reliability on the job. He was well-respected by his colleagues and employers, who valued his dedication and positive attitude. Although he may not have had a glamorous career, Boris took pride in his work and in his ability to provide for his family.
Influence On André The Giant’s Life
Boris Roussimoff played a significant role in shaping André the Giant’s life and career. From an early age, Boris recognized his son’s unique size and encouraged him to embrace it. He supported André’s athletic pursuits and was a constant source of love and guidance.
André often spoke fondly of his father and credited him with instilling important values like hard work, determination, and kindness. Boris’s influence can be seen in André’s humble and generous nature, despite his larger-than-life persona.
Family Legacy
The Roussimoff family legacy extends beyond just André the Giant. Boris and Mariann raised a close-knit and loving family, and their children went on to have successful lives of their own. André’s brother, Jacques Roussimoff, also pursued a career in wrestling under the name “The Butcher.” While he never achieved the same level of fame as André, Jacques had a respectable career in his own right.
Today, the Roussimoff family continues to honor the memory of Boris and André. They have shared stories and photos from their family history, giving fans a glimpse into the private lives of these legendary figures.
Boris Roussimoff’s Cause Of Death
Boris Roussimoff passed away on January 15, 1993 at the age of 85. The exact cause of his death is not publicly known, but it is believed to have been from natural causes related to his advanced age. Tragically, André the Giant died just 12 days after his father’s passing. André had traveled to France to attend his father’s funeral and passed away in his sleep at a hotel in Paris. The official cause of death was congestive heart failure.
Remembering Boris Roussimoff
Although Boris Roussimoff may not be a household name like his son André, his legacy lives on through the impact he had on his family and community. Boris was a hardworking and loving father who supported his children and instilled important values in them.
Through sharing his story, we can gain a greater appreciation for the man behind the legend of André the Giant. Boris Roussimoff’s life is a testament to the power of family, hard work, and embracing one’s unique qualities. He may be gone, but his memory lives on through the countless lives he touched.
Conclusion
The story of Boris Roussimoff is one of quiet strength, determination, and the unbreakable bond of family. While he may have lived in the shadow of his famous son, Boris’s impact on André’s life and legacy cannot be overstated. Through hard work, love, and support, Boris helped shape André into the legendary figure we remember today. Although he may be gone, Boris Roussimoff’s memory lives on as a shining example of fatherhood and the power of family.
