Rene Goulet: The Number Six Frenchman of Professional Wrestling

A Legendary Career Spanning Decades

Rene Goulet, born Robert Bedard on July 12, 1932, was a Canadian professional wrestler who made a lasting impact on the world of professional wrestling. With a career spanning over four decades, Goulet is best known for his time in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where he worked as a wrestler and road agent from 1971 to 1972 and again from 1980 to 1997.

Early Life and Beginnings in Sports

Born in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, Bedard was an athletic individual who played hockey as a defenseman. In one notable incident, he nearly lost his life when an opponent's skate cut into his throat. In addition to hockey, Bedard trained as a bodybuilder and a boxer, but it was wrestling that eventually became his passion.

Becoming Rene Goulet

Goulet began his wrestling career in 1957, with his first match against Gerard Dugas in Quebec City. It was Verne Gagne and Wally Karbo who changed his ring name to Rene Goulet, capitalizing on his good looks and the popularity of singer Robert Goulet. Despite initially not knowing English, Goulet and his wife worked hard to learn the language, which enabled him to succeed in the American wrestling circuit.

Rise to Fame in the WWWF

Goulet's biggest break came in the 1970s and 1980s, when he achieved significant fame in the World Wrestling Federation. On December 6, 1971, he won the WWWF Tag Team Championship with Karl Gotch, defeating Crazy Luke Graham and Tarzan Tyler. Although they lost the belts to Baron Mikel Scicluna and King Curtis Iaukea on February 1, 1972, Goulet's star continued to rise.

A True Veteran of the Ring

Goulet's career was marked by his rugged determination and ability to adapt to different opponents. As he once said, "Sometimes, you didn't even know this guy standing in front of you. Some guys you'd go in against were horrible, and it wasn't just a matter of having a good match, it was a matter of protecting yourself." This grit and resilience earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike.

Legacy in Professional Wrestling

Rene Goulet's impact on professional wrestling is undeniable. With a career spanning over 40 years, he worked alongside some of the biggest names in the industry and played a significant role in shaping the WWF into what it is today. Goulet's legacy serves as a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and passion for the sport he loved.

Awards and Honors

• WWWF Tag Team Championship (with Karl Gotch)

Personal Life and Later Years

Rene Goulet passed away on May 25, 2019, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of professional wrestling. Despite his passing, his contributions to the sport will continue to inspire and influence future generations of wrestlers.

Remembered as the Number Six Frenchman, Rene Goulet's name will forever be etched in the annals of professional wrestling history.