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What's the story?
On the latest edition of Wrestling Observer Radio, author Liam O'Rourke spoke to Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez about his new book about Brian Pillman, 'Crazy Like a Fox: The Definitive Chronicle of Brian Pillman 20 Years Later', released in November 2017, 20 years after the passing of Pillman.
In case you didn’t know…
Having wrestled for Stampede Wrestling, WCW, ECW as well as the erstwhile WWF, Pillman is remembered mostly for his time in WCW for his 'Loose Cannon' gimmick, where he blurred the line between reality and kayfabe with his 'worked shoots' style of promos. He was also one half of the tag team 'Hollywood Blondes' alongside Stone Cold (then known as 'Stunning' Steve Austin).
In the WWE, he is mostly remembered for his infamous 'Pillman's got a gun' segment with Stone Cold Steve Austin which garnered a lot of controversy.
Sadly, Pillman passed away at the age of 35 due to an undiagnosed heart condition.
The heart of the matter
The author O'Rourke has discussed his book at length in the latest edition of the WOR podcast. At one point, Meltzer goes on to praise the book saying that it is the best biography of a wrestler he has ever read.
The book talks about the life and times of Pillman including his stints in football, his later career with the WCW, WWE and so on. Interesting stories about how Pillman 'faked' a release with WCW by manipulating Eric Bischoff, to obtain an actual legal release, in order to join the WWE, are all chronicled in the book.
What's next?
Liam O'Rourke's book released in November 2017. It will definitely be an interesting read for any pro wrestling fan.
Author's take
Brian Pillman was one of the best of his times, carving a niche for himself even in his short career. He is one of the wrestlers whose true potential we never got to witness. We can only imagine the heights he would have achieved if he were around today.
