In a recent interview, former WWE Superstar Zach Gowen shared a fascinating account of his feud with Brock Lesnar during the early days of The Beast’s career. Gowen, who rose to fame in the wrestling world despite being a one-legged wrestler, revealed the reasons behind WWE’s decision to have Lesnar brutally beat him up in front of his family back in 2003.
The memorable episode of WWE SmackDown on August 21, 2003, saw Gowen emerge victorious via disqualification against Lesnar, but what followed was a brutal assault by The Beast. Lesnar dominated the match, but lost via disqualification after hitting Gowen with a steel chair that busted him open in front of his mother and brother. The beating continued, with Lesnar delivering two F5s on the steel post and repeatedly hitting Gowen’s leg with the steel chair.
According to Gowen, Lesnar’s brutal actions that night were a deliberate attempt by WWE to help him establish himself as a formidable heel. At the time, Lesnar was struggling to connect with the audience as a villain, and WWE needed him to do “something drastic” to turn the tide. What better way to elicit a strong reaction from the crowd than to have him mercilessly beat up a beloved, one-legged wrestler in front of his family?
Despite the brutality of their on-screen rivalry, Gowen has only kind words to say about Lesnar off-camera. In a previous interview with Chris Van Vliet, Gowen praised Lesnar, saying they got along really well backstage. This contrast between their on-screen personas and real-life relationship highlights the complexity of the professional wrestling world, where even the most heated feuds can be just an act.
Gowen’s short but memorable WWE career saw him work alongside legends like Roddy Piper, Hulk Hogan, Vince McMahon, and Stephanie McMahon. Although he was released in 2004, the company showed its benevolent side by sponsoring his rehabilitation a few years later. Today, Gowen’s story is an inspiration to many, serving as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed.
The Zach Gowen-Brock Lesnar feud may have been a fleeting moment in WWE history, but it has left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. As we look back on that fateful night in Detroit, we are reminded that even in the world of sports entertainment, there is often more to the story than meets the eye.
