Untitled article (Munn! Munn!)

Introduction

The essay (untitled article) “MUNN! MUNN! MUNN! MUNN! MUNN!” from The Right Hook #2, Howard’s amateur press publication, (circa April/May 1925) by Robert E. Howard offers a sarcastic commentary on the wrestling scene of the time, focusing on the downfall of a wrestler named Munn. Munn, described as an enormous athlete standing six feet six inches tall and weighing 280 pounds, is ridiculed for having been defeated and dethroned by Stanilaus Zbyszko, a nearly sixty-year-old former champion who is significantly older and smaller than Munn. Howard mocks Munn’s short reign as champion and his strategy of selecting weaker opponents he could overpower with brute strength, highlighting his inability to defeat a seasoned competitor like Zbyszko.

Additionally, Howard mentions an upcoming fight for the light heavyweight title of the world between Mike McTigue and Paul Berlenbach. He describes Berlenbach as one of the most powerful hitters in the world next to Jack Dempsey and predicts the match could end with Berlenbach knocking out McTigue or McTigue outboxing Berlenbach to win. Despite Berlenbach’s power, McTigue is noted for his resilience, never having been knocked out in 110 fights. However, the essay concludes by stating that despite being knocked down, Berlenbach won the title by decision, demonstrating the unpredictability of boxing.

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  • Munn (Big, Big Munn!): A wrestler mocked for his brief and unimpressive tenure as champion, known for his physical size rather than skill or technique.
  • Stanilaus Zbyszko: The veteran wrestler who defeated Munn to claim the wrestling throne, praised for his experience and skill despite his age and physical disadvantages compared to Munn.
  • Strangler Ed Lewis: Mentioned as a former title-holder who was believed by many to have been fairly defeated by Munn, contributing to the mockery of Munn’s championship legitimacy.
  • Mike McTigue: A fighter known for his resilience and boxing skill, set to defend his light heavyweight title against Paul Berlenbach.
  • Paul Berlenbach: Described as one of the most powerful hitters in boxing, with a significant record of knockouts, challenging McTigue for the light heavyweight title.

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