Post by Carl on Sept 22, 2023 20:30:00 GMT
While he accepted the nickname with gracious good humor, it was based more on appearance than aggression.
My assumption was based on this passage:
Vittorio Brambilla, 11 November 1937 – 26 May 2001, was particularly adept at driving in wet conditions. His nickname was "The Monza Gorilla", due to his often overly aggressive driving style and sense of machismo. He was particularly known for his 'Punch and Crunch' routine, in which, he would greet the unfortunate victim with an extremely strong handshake. He enjoyed watching the recipient wince whilst they were shaking hands only to follow this up with a rabbit punch to the back of one's neck.
sfcriga.com/vittorio-brambilla-monzas-gorilla
René,
I like your assumption more than mine. It's probable Brambilla was large and naturally ebullient as a child. The gorilla characterization may have been an insult from older bullies or derived affectionately from childhood friends and something Vittorio enjoyed, the Monza part coming later. Most likely, because of his physical strength, it was always said with respect.
Cheers, the reluctant baboon 
