Can a Hundred Unarmed Men Defeat a Gorilla?

The question of whether a hundred unarmed men could defeat a gorilla in a fight has sparked considerable debate on the internet, particularly on social media platforms. This discussion gained momentum after a post on the platform X went viral, garnering over 290 million views. The user proposed that with dedication, a group of a hundred men could potentially overpower a silverback gorilla.

The debate, which originally surfaced in 2020 on Reddit, has resurfaced with renewed interest. Notably, popular content creator MrBeast even called for volunteers to participate in a hypothetical experiment to test this theory, which attracted over 50 million views on his post. Prominent figures such as Elon Musk have also chimed in, humorously questioning what the worst outcome could be.

To address this intriguing question, experts in gorilla behavior and biology have weighed in, providing insights into the physical capabilities of gorillas. A male silverback typically stands around 1.75 meters tall and weighs over 160 kilograms, with a remarkable arm span of nearly three meters. Their physical strength is considerable; they can lift weights exceeding one ton and possess notably large canine teeth.

One expert, a wildlife photographer from Miami Zoo, suggested that a coordinated and determined effort by a group of men in their twenties could potentially lead to success in subduing a gorilla. However, he cautioned that such an endeavor would likely result in severe injuries or fatalities, with risks including broken necks, serious bite wounds, and other life-threatening injuries.

In contrast, some primatologists highlight the tremendous strength of gorillas, noting that these animals have a higher proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibers, which contribute to their explosive power. An expert in primate studies pointed out that while humans may attempt to swarm a gorilla, they would likely be overpowered quickly due to the gorilla's sheer strength and size.

Another primatologist emphasized that gorillas are generally peaceful creatures, primarily herbivorous and non-aggressive unless provoked or protecting their young. The notion that a gorilla would instinctively engage in a fight with a group of humans is questioned, as these animals typically prefer to avoid conflict.

Overall, while the discussion may entertain some, it raises ethical questions about animal welfare and the implications of such hypothetical scenarios. Gorillas are regarded as intelligent and social animals, often preferring to engage in peaceful activities rather than confrontations.