Andre The Giant Height
André René Roussimoff popularly known as André the Giant Height was a French professional wrestler and actor. Andre The Giant Height had a net worth of about $5 million at the time of his death. His net worth after adjusting for time value of money stands at $10 million today.
He had a rare medical condition known as gigantism. He was over seven feet tall. The giant is famously known for defeating arch-rival Hulk Hogan to claim the WWF Championship in 1988. The colossus was sometimes referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”.
The giant shifted his attention on All Japan Pro-Wrestling until his demise in 1993. He got inducted posthumously into the WWF Hall of Fame.
Early Life
André René Roussimoff was born on May 19th, 1946 in Coulommiers, Seine-et-Marne, France. He was brought up by Bulgarian and Polish immigrants together with his siblings. He is the third of five children. He weighed an incredible 13 pounds at birth. At a very young age of 12, Roussimoff stood at an incredible 6’3.
He went to Ussy-sur-Marne where his love for mathematics became evident. He worked on his father’s farm after finishing secondary education. Not satisfied with menial labour, he left for Paris at the age of 18.
Career
Andre The Giant Height was taken through the rigours of professional wrestling by a local promoter immediately he arrived in Paris. Roussimoff met a Canadian promoter in 1966 who became his manager and adviser. He fought under the name “Monster Roussimoff” in 1970 when he made his Japanese debut with International Wrestling Enterprise.
The giant became a a popular figure in Canada where he caught the attention of Vince McMahon who advised him to rework his image. McMahon made very remarkable improvements in his career. This reposition advised by McMahon made Andre a global sensation. The giant never looked back after making his debut in 1973. He became a formidable force in the WWF championship.
The 1990s saw a much toned down appearances in the ring. Roussimoff ended his career in World Championship Wrestling as well as All Japan Pro Wrestling. He was the highest paid wrestler in the 70s with an annual salary of approximately $400,000.
Relationship
Andre had a child with Jean Christensen in the early 70s. Robin remains the only child of Roussimoff.
Passing
The Giant passed in his early 40s in 1993. He died of congestive heart failure in a hotel room in Paris. The giant had visited Paris to attend his father’s funeral.
