Rene Goulet Then and Now

Rene Goulet Then

Rene Goulet, born on July 12, 1932, in Quebec City, is a notable figure whose athletic career spanned several sports, including hockey, bodybuilding, and boxing, before he found his calling in professional wrestling. 

Goulet began his athletic journey as a defenseman in hockey, a sport where he faced considerable danger. 

His commitment to the game was evident when he suffered a severe injury; an opponent’s skate accidentally cut into his throat, a traumatic incident that almost cost him his life. 

This close brush with death underscored the inherent risks of the sport and led Goulet to reassess his future in athletics.

Despite the near-fatal accident, Goulet’s athleticism did not wane. He continued to explore other physical pursuits, including bodybuilding and boxing. 

His dedication to these disciplines reflected his drive to excel and remain competitive. 

However, it was a warning from a fellow boxer who pivoted his career towards wrestling. 

The boxer cautioned Goulet that continuing in boxing might lead to being “punch drunk” by the age of 25, highlighting the long-term risks associated with the sport. 

This advice prompted Goulet to shift his focus, leading him to the world of professional wrestling, where he would eventually make a significant impact.

Related Article: Angelo Mosca Then and Now

In wrestling, Goulet’s diverse athletic background served him well, allowing him to leverage his strength, agility, and resilience. 

His transition from hockey to wrestling, with the detours through bodybuilding and boxing, illustrates a career marked by adaptability and a willingness to confront new challenges, ultimately establishing himself as a respected wrestler.

Related Article: Randy Savage Then and Now

Rene Goulet Wrestling Career

Rene Goulet embarked on his professional wrestling career in Quebec City, Quebec, in 1957, with his inaugural match against Gérard Dugas.

He adopted the ring name “Rene Goulet” when he began working in the Minneapolis territory managed by Verne Gagne and Wally Karbo. 

The name change was strategic, leveraging his good looks and the popularity of the singer Robert Goulet. 

Despite his initial lack of English proficiency, Goulet and his wife made considerable efforts to learn the language, which helped him integrate into the American wrestling scene.

Related Article: Lanny Poffo Then and Now

Goulet’s early career involved extensive travel across various wrestling territories, with a significant portion of his time spent in the American Wrestling Association (AWA). 

His prominent achievements came during the 1970s and 1980s in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). 

Notably, Goulet won the WWWF Tag Team Championship on December 6, 1971, alongside Karl Gotch, by defeating “Crazy” Luke Graham and Tarzan Tyler. 

This victory marked a high point in his career. However, the team lost the titles to Baron Mikel Scicluna and King Curtis Iaukea at the next television taping on February 1, 1972, and Goulet soon sought new opportunities.

Related Article: Sam Houston Then and Now

Goulet’s training and experience in wrestling were characterized by a hands-on, ad-lib approach. 

He described the wrestling environment as dynamic and unpredictable, with matches often being improvised and requiring wrestlers to protect themselves while adapting to their opponents. 

This method of wrestling, devoid of scripts or pre-determined outcomes, demanded versatility and quick thinking.

In addition to his work in North America, Goulet also competed internationally. 

Related Article: Pez Whatley Then and Now

He briefly wrestled in Germany under the ring name “Buddy Rogers Jr.,” a nod to the legendary wrestler Buddy Rogers. 

Goulet made history by participating in the first WWF match ever televised on the USA Network against Tito Santana. 

Known for his reliability and ability to deliver quality matches, Goulet frequently worked with rookie wrestlers, helping to guide them through their early careers. 

Notable wrestlers who faced Goulet in their early matches include Ric Flair, Chris Taylor, and the Iron Sheik.

Related Article: Raymond Rougeau Then and Now

Goulet’s career extended beyond regular wrestling matches. He was featured in a full-page photo in People Magazine in 1974, showcasing a memorable moment from his match against Chris Taylor. 

In the early 1980s, while working in the AWA, he was known as “Sgt. Jacques Goulet” and utilized a signature move called “Le Scorpion.” 

His unique persona often included wearing different gloves, adding a distinctive touch to his in-ring character. 

Eventually, Goulet settled in Charlotte, North Carolina, and continued to be active in the wrestling world.

Related Article: Jacques Rougeau Then and Now

Throughout his career, Goulet worked in various international territories, including Europe, Australia, and Japan. 

In Japan, he teamed with André the Giant to win the New Japan Pro-Wrestling World Tag League in 1981. 

Goulet’s wrestling career spanned until 1986, after which he participated in a Legends battle royal in 1987. 

Related Article: Hillbilly Jim Then and Now

He transitioned to a role as a road agent for the WWF, where he was frequently involved in maintaining order during backstage conflicts. 

Goulet also had a recurring role on the classic wrestling show “Tuesday Night Titans,” hosting the segment “Cafe Rene.” 

His involvement in key wrestling angles, such as saving The Ultimate Warrior from The Undertaker’s coffin, demonstrated his enduring influence in the sport.

Related Article: Ron Bass Then and Now

Rene Goulet Wrestling Competition

• American Wrestling Association (AWA)
• World Wrestling Federation (WWF)
• New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)
• European wrestling promotions
• Australian wrestling promotions
• Japanese wrestling promotions

Rene Goulet Retirement

After Rene Goulet’s release from the WWF in 1997, he retired to a more tranquil life in North Carolina, where he devoted his time to enjoying his passions and spending quality time with his wife. 

Goulet embraced retirement with enthusiasm, particularly indulging in his love for golf. 

He regularly participated in celebrity charity tournaments, blending his athletic background with philanthropic efforts. 

His transition from the rigorous demands of professional wrestling to a leisurely retirement was marked by a focus on personal fulfillment and enjoyment.

Related Article: Ken Patera Then and Now

Goulet’s commitment to his marriage was a cornerstone of his post-wrestling life. 

Having been married for nearly 70 years, he valued the relationship deeply and attributed its longevity to a foundation of love and mutual respect. 

He emphasized that respect was crucial in maintaining a successful and happy marriage. 

Related Article: Brutus Beefcake Then and Now

Goulet and his wife navigated their decisions together, ensuring that both their voices were heard equally. 

His appreciation for his wife’s support was particularly poignant, given the challenges of his wrestling career, which often required time away from home. 

Goulet’s reflections on his marriage highlight his belief that lasting relationships require continuous effort, mutual respect, and open communication.

Related Article: Greg Valentine Then and Now

Rene Goulet Now

Rene Goulet passed away on May 25, 2019, at the age of 86, marking the end of a notable and multifaceted life. 

His death was a moment of reflection for the wrestling community and his fans, who remembered him for his significant contributions to the sport and his enduring legacy. 

Goulet’s career spanned several decades and included prominent roles in various wrestling promotions, where he earned a reputation as a dependable and skilled performer.

Throughout his life, Goulet was not only known for his achievements in the ring but also for his personal qualities and commitments. 

Related Article: Brian Lee Then and Now

After retiring from professional wrestling in 1997, he enjoyed a fulfilling retirement, spending time with his wife, pursuing his passion for golf, and participating in charity events. 

His long and happy marriage, which lasted nearly 70 years, was a testament to his dedication to family and his values of love, respect, and partnership.

Goulet’s passing marked the conclusion of a storied career and a life well-lived. 

His contributions to wrestling, along with his personal attributes and the impact he had on those around him, ensured that his memory would endure within the wrestling community and beyond.

Related Article: Al Perez Then and Now