I think everyone should be treated equally. Not sure how you inferred I said one gender needs special treatment. However, I'll note that public reaction to a man verbally attacking a woman and making her cry is going to be worse than the same situation where a man is the target.
I wouldn't even say that, as a guy would have legitimate complaints if a female boss did the same thing to them. Its unfortunately true that it might not be taken as seriously (that is in no way to minimize that this has been a major issue for women, having male bosses that use various forms of intimidation, just saying that if a guy felt similarly humiliated and made a complaint it sadly might not be taken as seriously; certainly it will be seen especially problematic because its known that it is a far too common problem for women which most places are keen in trying to make clear that is not acceptable). Simply put, he verbally assaulted her, and visibly physically intimidated her, he deserves whatever results.
So fuck him, you don't owe him shit. If he pulls shenanigans with you, he's revealing his true character and you'll be further vindicated for not trying to appease him. Yes that's easy for me to say as I wouldn't have to deal with it, but I'd be willing to guess your company would have your back.
pretty much - anyway you cut it, the optics of a meathead verbally laying into someone a fraction of their size is not good.
I don't even think its a size thing explicitly. He was verbally abusive and physically intimidated her. That shit ain't gonna fly in any remotely professional environment. Certainly size can be an extra factor (and that women tend to be smaller in stature and physical prowess than men, enhances men's ability to physically intimidate them), but if it was a 5'0 105lb woman getting in the personal space of a 7'5 500lb guy and verbally abusing/assaulting them, it too would be unacceptable, and I don't think the guy should be ashamed over making an issue out of it similarly.