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History Lesson

Why André the Giant was one of Montreal's greatest entertainers in and out of the ring

The city's role in André the Giant's path from French farm boy to the Eighth Wonder of the World, with a downtown brasserie pitstop.

J.P. Karwacki

J.P. Karwacki

March 7, 2025- Read time: 6 min
Why André the Giant was one of Montreal's greatest entertainers in and out of the ring

Before he became a global icon, before WrestleMania III and The Princess Bride, André the Giant was Jean Ferré—a towering enigma dominating Quebec’s wrestling scene. There was a strong Montreal connection in his larger-than life, and the city wasn’t just a stop on his path to stardom; it was a place that helped birth the legend he would be remembered by.

It was here that promoters first saw his potential, where he headlined sold-out arenas, and where he learned the power of mystique that would define his career. From his debut in the local Grand Prix Wrestling circuit to the moment he caught Vince McMahon Sr.’s attention, Montreal was the proving ground that transformed a French farm boy into The Eighth Wonder of the World.

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The Bulletin: Dancing high above Mile End, rush hour cocktails, and new projects galore [Issue #119]

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