Chronicling the illustrious career of WWE hall of famer “Rowdy” Roddy Piper is no easy task, but his kids have brilliantly done it! Piper’s son and daughter share stories of their very busy father and trace his footsteps in what appeared to be his “missing years.” As many in show business do, Piper created his own myths about his origins. Piper wasn’t Scottish, as he was born in Canada, but kept the illusion going as he crafted the “Rowdy” character.
Piper’s kids share stories learned from interviewing to those that traveled with the “Rowdy” one. The book details how Piper moved from boxing to wrestling, and how he broke into the business. They share many of his crazy institutions into professional wrestling and going to toe to toe with a bear. I appreciate the author’s honesty, discussing Piper’s bouts with alcohol and drugs.
Along with the way, Piper worked many of wrestling’s greats, such as Lou Thesz, the Guerreros, Bret Hart, Jimmy Snuka, Ric Flair, and Greg “The Hammer” Valentine (where he had a memorable and brutal dog collar match). Along the way, Piper would be fired by Ole Anderson and have to convince the WWF’s old guard he was ready for New York. Piper was instrumental in the creation and success of Wrestlemania, feuding with Hollywood’s Mr. T.
What was Piper’s favorite match? This book has the answer. The book also answers the question, which title meant the most to him. Later in his career, Piper would join World Championship Wrestling, and re-kindle a feud with Hulk Hogan.
The “Rowdy” one crossed over into acting roles, where he made his mark with “They Live.” The book attempts to trace the origins of the bubble gum line.
The book details Piper’s final days, a sad ending to a historic career in and out of the ring. UFC’s Ronda Rousey would adopt the “Rowdy” moniker in honor on Piper. I enjoyed “Rowdy,” and would definitely recommend it!
By: Colt Baird Toombs, Ariel Teal Toombs, Craig Pyette – contributor
Narrated by: Joe Hempel
Length: 12 hrs and 1 min
Release date: 11-26-24
