Dubbed "the Eighth Wonder of the World ", Roussimoff was known for his great size, which was a result of gigantism caused by excess human growth hormone. Beginning his career in , Roussimoff relocated to North America in He was later a charter member of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame and the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame ; the latter describes him as being "one of the most recognizable figures in the world both as a professional wrestler and as a pop culture icon.
He had two older siblings and two younger. Roussimoff was an average student, though good at mathematics.
When he was 14, Rousimoff decided against further schooling and joined the workforce, believing what he learned was sufficient for a career as a farmhand. He did not drop out of school, as compulsory education laws in France were no longer applicable to those aged 14 or older.
Roussimoff spent years working on his father's farm in Molien , where, according to his brother Jacques, he could perform the work of three men. He also completed an apprenticeship in woodworking , and next worked in a factory that manufactured engines for hay balers. None of these brought him any satisfaction. At the age of 18, Roussimoff moved to Paris and was taught professional wrestling by a local promoter, Robert Lageat, who recognized the earning potential of Roussimoff's size.
He trained at night and worked as a mover during the day to pay living expenses. This later became "Jean Ferre". Roussimoff began his career wrestling in his native France. Roussimoff next moved to Montreal, Canada in , where he became an immediate success, regularly selling out the Montreal Forum.
