Dion Giarrusso has returned to the adult industry to start Combat Zone, a new gonzo company that will begin production this month.
Giarrusso, who founded Red Light District in 2001, has been out of the adult business for two years. In December of 2003, he sold his interest in Red Light District to his brother, David Joseph, the current president of the company, after the two had a business argument. The deal included a two-year, non-compete clause for Giarrusso.
“What’s most important is that my brother and I are back working on our relationship,” Giarrusso told AVN.com in an exclusive interview. “Business really is secondary. … What happened is between me and my brother and it’s in the past. We’ve moved on from that. I’m just really excited now about coming back. I’m ready. I’ve had a lot of idle time in the last two years. I’m looking forward to reacquainting myself with everyone.”
The name Combat Zone comes from the street term for the Red Light District of Boston, Mass., said Giarrusso, who has stayed busy with several real estate ventures both in and out of state.
“I’m better off than I’ve ever been in my life financially,” Giarrusso continued. “But I’m from the streets and I miss the hustle. I need that deal. I’m so excited about getting back into it. I miss a lot of people. I have some strong relationships in this industry. And especially being in a good financial situation, I’m going to take my time. I’m in no rush to put out a ton of product.”
He acknowledged that competition nowadays is “brutal."
“I think I’m up against a lot, but I do believe in myself, and with hard work and the great relationships I had when I left, I think I have a great shot,” said Giarrusso, who started his career in adult with Elegant Angel in August, 1997. “You have to put out quality stuff and stick to new, fresh girls. I’m really going to give it my all.”
Giarrusso said that with Combat Zone he would produce what he knows best – hardcore gonzo porn.
“I’m not a big fan of features. Why would I want to do anything else except gonzo. That’s my forte,” he said.
Combat Zone will utilize the new O-card packaging, along with foil and embossed design elements.
“I have some cool titles in mind that I want to do, and I’m looking for a few good people that want to shoot,” Giarrusso said.
He is also looking for a building that will be the Combat Zone headquarters.
Giarrusso, who will be attending the AVN Adult Entertainment Expo in Las Vegas this week, can be contacted at [email protected] or 818.266.4474.
Joseph was not available for comment at press time.
