Bret Hart

Bret Sergeant Hart (born July 2, 1957), better known by the ring name Bret "The Hitman" Hart, is a retired Canadian professional wrestler, author, and actor renowned for his exceptional technical wrestling prowess and as a pivotal figure in the Hart wrestling dynasty.^[1] Widely regarded as one of the greatest in-ring performers in professional wrestling history, he achieved prominence in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) during the 1980s and 1990s, where he captured the WWF World Heavyweight Championship five times and became synonymous with precision, storytelling, and the slogan "the best there is, the best there was, and the best there ever will be."^[2][3] Born in Calgary, Alberta, as the eighth of twelve children to wrestling promoter and patriarch Stu Hart and his wife Helen, Bret grew up immersed in the sport through his family's promotion, Stampede Wrestling.^[1] From a young age, he trained rigorously in the Hart family's underground facility known as "the Dungeon," a notoriously grueling space that honed his skills alongside his brothers and other relatives, including future wrestlers Owen Hart and brother-in-law Jim Neidhart (the British Bulldog).^[3] After earning accolades in amateur wrestling during his youth, including provincial championships in Alberta, Hart transitioned to professional wrestling in the late 1970s, debuting for Stampede Wrestling where he won multiple titles and gained experience touring internationally in Japan and Europe.^[2][1] Hart's major breakthrough came in 1984 when he signed with the WWF, initially teaming with his brother-in-law Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart to form the Hart Foundation tag team, which dominated the division by securing the WWF Tag Team Championship twice—first in 1987 and again in 1990.^[3] Transitioning to singles competition in the early 1990s, he solidified his status as a main event star, capturing the WWF Intercontinental Championship twice (in 1991 against Mr. Perfect and in 1992 at WrestleMania VIII against Roddy Piper) before embarking on a record-setting run as a five-time WWF Champion, with victories over legends like Ric Flair (1992), Yokozuna (1994 at WrestleMania X), and Diesel (1995).^[1][3] His matches, often lauded for their athleticism and narrative depth, included the iconic 60-minute Iron Man Match against Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XII in 1996, which he lost in sudden-death overtime, and his 1993 King of the Ring victory, cementing his "Excellence of Execution" moniker.^[2][3] A defining and controversial moment in Hart's career occurred at Survivor Series 1997 in Montreal, Quebec, known as the "Montreal Screwjob," where WWF owner Vince McMahon orchestrated a surprise title loss to Shawn Michaels without Hart's knowledge or consent, as Hart was contractually bound to depart for World Championship Wrestling (WCW) amid a dispute over his WWF contract.^[1] This incident fueled a real-life rift with McMahon and the WWF, leading Hart to join WCW in 1998, where he won the WCW World Heavyweight Championship twice and the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship once.^[2] His WCW tenure, however, was marred by creative frustrations and culminated in a career-ending injury—a severe concussion from a kick by Bill Goldberg in December 1999—prompting his retirement in 2000 at age 42.^[1][3] Post-retirement, Hart faced further health challenges, including a debilitating stroke in 2002 from which he remarkably recovered through intensive rehabilitation, regaining much of his mobility and speech.^[1] He reconciled with WWE in 2010, returning for high-profile appearances, including defeating McMahon in a No Holds Barred match at WrestleMania XXVI and inducting family members into the Hall of Fame.^[3] Hart has since pursued writing, authoring the bestselling autobiography Hitman: My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling in 2007, and acting in projects like the TV series Lonesome Dove: The Outlaw Years, for which he earned a Gemini Award nomination, and stage productions such as Aladdin: The Magical Family Musical.^[2] A two-time WWE Hall of Famer—individually in 2006 and with the Hart Foundation in 2019—who inducted his brother Owen in 2022, he remains a Canadian icon, honored as one of the nation's top 50 greatest citizens by CBC in 2004, and continues charitable work while advocating for wrestling's legitimacy.^[1][2]

Early Life and Amateur Career

Childhood and Family

Bret Sergeant Hart was born on July 2, 1957, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, the eighth of twelve children born to wrestling promoter Stu Hart and his wife Helen.^[1] The Hart family resided in a sprawling 22-room mansion on Calgary's Broadcast Hill, a home that became synonymous with the wrestling world due to its constant influx of grapplers, trainers, and events tied to Stu's promotion.^[1] Stu Hart, a former amateur wrestler and football player who had competed professionally in the 1940s, founded Stampede Wrestling in 1948, turning it into a cornerstone of Canadian professional wrestling and establishing the Harts as a multi-generational dynasty.^[4] Helen, originally from New York City, provided stability for the large household, though the family's life revolved around the demanding schedule of wrestling promotions and training.^[5] All twelve Hart children—eight sons and four daughters—developed ties to professional wrestling, either as performers, bookers, or spouses of wrestlers, reflecting the inescapable influence of their father's career.^[4] Bret's siblings included notable figures like brothers Smith, Bruce, Keith, and youngest brother Owen, who all pursued paths in the ring, while the family environment fostered a sense of loyalty and competition among them.^[6] Growing up amid this wrestling-centric dynamic, the children often wore hand-me-downs and faced financial strains despite the mansion's grandeur, with Stu's gruff temperament and strict discipline shaping their resilience—though Helen offered a gentler counterbalance.^[7] Bret recalls his earliest wrestling memory at age three, watching his father's televised Stampede Wrestling show in 1960, an exposure that permeated daily life as wrestlers trained and lived in the home.^[7] The basement of the Hart mansion housed the infamous Hart Dungeon, a makeshift gym where Stu subjected his children and aspiring wrestlers to intense, unforgiving sessions emphasizing technical holds, endurance, and pain tolerance.^[8] From a young age, Bret and his brothers were regularly brought down for training, enduring Stu's brutal methods that left physical and emotional marks but honed their skills in catch-as-catch-can wrestling.^[9] This environment instilled a profound respect for the sport's fundamentals, though Bret initially gravitated toward artistic pursuits, sketching cartoons of wrestlers and even briefly attending film school before fully committing to wrestling.^[1] The Dungeon's legacy extended beyond the family, training icons like Chris Jericho and Edge, but for Bret, it represented both the privileges and pressures of his upbringing in a household where wrestling was not just a profession but a way of life.^[10]

Amateur Wrestling Achievements

Bret Hart began his amateur wrestling journey at a young age, training rigorously in the Hart family Dungeon under his father Stu Hart, which supplemented his formal competitive experience.^[11] At Ernest Manning High School in Calgary, Alberta, he emerged as a standout competitor, capturing the Calgary city championship in 1974 by defeating notable opponent Bob Eklund.^[11] Hart built on this success to become a provincial champion in Alberta during his high school years, demonstrating technical proficiency and versatility across weight classes such as 145, 154, and 177 pounds.^[1][12] Following high school, Hart earned a wrestling scholarship to Mount Royal College in Calgary, where he continued to excel in collegiate competition.^[13] In 1977, he won the collegiate championship for the institution, now known as Mount Royal University, solidifying his reputation as one of Alberta's top amateur wrestlers.^[13] These achievements highlighted his foundational skills in grappling and submission techniques, honed through consistent training and competitive exposure before transitioning to professional wrestling.^[11]

Professional Wrestling Career

Stampede Wrestling Debut (1976–1984)

Bret Hart entered the professional wrestling industry through his family's Calgary-based promotion, Stampede Wrestling, in 1976 at the age of 19. Trained rigorously by his father, Stu Hart, in the infamous Hart family dungeon—a basement gym beneath the family home—Hart drew on his amateur wrestling background to prepare for the transition to professional bouts. Initially, he contributed to the promotion in supportive roles before making his in-ring debut in 1978.^[14][15][16] In his early Stampede appearances, Hart primarily worked as a jobber and enhancement talent, putting over more experienced performers to build audience interest and sharpen his own technical proficiency. He often competed under the ring name "Cowboy" Bret Hart, a nod to Calgary's iconic annual rodeo event, the Calgary Stampede, which emphasized his Western Canadian roots and helped establish his character. These preliminary matches allowed Hart to hone a precise, mat-based style focused on submissions and chain wrestling, setting the foundation for his reputation as a skilled technician.^[17][2] Hart's development accelerated through intense rivalries with established stars, including the hard-hitting Dynamite Kid and the crafty Leo Burke. His feud with Dynamite Kid, which began around 1978, featured high-stakes matches that tested Hart's endurance and adaptability against the British import's aggressive, stiff style; Hart later credited Kid, alongside Burke, as pivotal influences in elevating his in-ring psychology and execution. Similarly, bouts against Burke, such as their 1982 encounters, showcased Hart's growing ability to blend technical holds with storytelling, culminating in a title change where Hart defeated Burke for the Stampede North American Heavyweight Championship on June 26, 1982. These rivalries not only elevated Hart's standing but also highlighted Stampede's role as a premier training ground for innovative wrestling.^[18][16] A significant milestone came in November 1978 when Hart captured his first championship, the Stampede British Commonwealth Mid-Heavyweight Championship, defeating Norman Frederick Charles III in a match that marked his emergence as a credible singles competitor. He would go on to win the title twice more in Stampede while also securing the North American Heavyweight Championship six times overall during his territorial run. Family ties played a central role, as Hart frequently teamed with his brother Keith, winning the Stampede International Tag Team Championship twice and the NWA International Tag Team Championship once between 1978 and 1984; these partnerships underscored the collaborative Hart dynasty dynamic under Stu's guidance. By 1984, Hart's tenure in Stampede had solidified his skills, preparing him for broader national exposure.^[19][2][16]

WWF Tag Team Success (1984–1991)

Bret Hart signed with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1984, leveraging his experience from Stampede Wrestling to adapt quickly to the larger promotion.^[2] He made his televised WWF debut on August 29, 1984, partnering with Dynamite Kid in a tag team match against Iron Mike Sharpe and Troy Alexander on an episode of Maple Leaf Wrestling.^[20] By early 1985, Hart teamed with his brother-in-law Jim Neidhart to form The Hart Foundation, a powerful heel duo managed by Jimmy Hart (no relation), debuting on television that April and quickly establishing themselves as contenders in the tag team division through their technical prowess and brute strength combination.^[2] The Hart Foundation's breakthrough came in their intense feud with The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith and Dynamite Kid), culminating in a WWF World Tag Team Championship victory on the January 26, 1987, episode of WWF Superstars of Wrestling, taped in Philadelphia, where they dethroned the champions with interference from manager Jimmy Hart and referee Danny Davis.^[21] This 273-day reign saw successful defenses against teams like The Bolsheviks (Nikolai Volkoff and Boris Zhukov) and The Rougeau Brothers, solidifying their dominance as heels.^[21] A highlight was their six-man tag team match at WrestleMania III on March 29, 1987, in Pontiac, Michigan, where The Hart Foundation allied with Danny Davis to defeat The British Bulldogs and Tito Santana, showcasing Hart's sharp ring psychology and Neidhart's raw power.^[22] After losing the titles to Strike Force (Tito Santana and Rick Martel) on October 27, 1987, The Hart Foundation rebuilt momentum through rivalries with high-flying teams like The Rockers (Shawn Michaels and Marty Jannetty), known for fast-paced, near-fall-laden encounters that highlighted Hart's mat-based expertise.^[23] In a pivotal shift, the duo turned babyface in mid-1990 following a storyline betrayal by manager Jimmy Hart, who attempted to trade their contracts, allowing them to regain fan support and challenge for the titles anew.^[2] This set the stage for their second championship win on August 27, 1990, at SummerSlam in Chicago, defeating Demolition (Ax and Smash) in a grueling 2-out-of-3 falls match lasting over 28 minutes, with interference from The Legion of Doom ensuring fairness.^[24] During this 208-day reign, they defended against challengers including The Bolsheviks, whom they dispatched decisively at WrestleMania VI on April 1, 1990, in Toronto's SkyDome.^[25] The Hart Foundation's final run as champions ended on March 24, 1991, at WrestleMania VII in Los Angeles, where they dropped the titles to The Nasty Boys (Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags) in a chaotic match amid ongoing tensions with manager Jimmy Hart.^[21] This loss marked the beginning of their dissolution, as Neidhart departed the promotion shortly thereafter, while Hart transitioned to a successful singles career, teasing his potential as a main event star through standout performances that blended precision submissions and resilience.^[2]

Intercontinental and WWF Title Runs (1991–1996)

Following the dissolution of The Hart Foundation tag team in 1991, Bret Hart embarked on a successful singles career in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), leveraging his technical expertise to capture the Intercontinental Championship for the first time by defeating Mr. Perfect at SummerSlam on August 26, 1991, in a critically acclaimed match that showcased his mastery of submission holds like the Sharpshooter.^[26] He defended the title against challengers including Ted DiBiase and The Mountie before losing it to The Mountie on January 9, 1992, during an episode of WWF Superstars, ending a 156-day reign that elevated his status as a top singles competitor.^[27] Hart reclaimed the Intercontinental Championship in his second reign by defeating The Mountie at WrestleMania VIII on April 5, 1992, retaining it through defenses against opponents like Skinner and IRS until dropping it to his brother-in-law, The British Bulldog, at SummerSlam on August 29, 1992, in a family-drama-fueled bout at Wembley Stadium. This 146-day second reign solidified Hart's reputation for innovative ring psychology, including creative uses of the ring environment to counter larger foes. Hart's momentum carried him to the WWF Championship, which he won for the first time on October 12, 1992, submitting Ric Flair with the Sharpshooter in a non-televised house show in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, marking a homecoming triumph after 174 days as champion.^[3] During this inaugural reign, he defended the title in high-stakes matches, including a disqualification victory over Shawn Michaels at King of the Ring 1992 and a grueling steel cage win against The British Bulldog at King of the Ring 1993, where he overcame interference to retain the belt before losing it to Yokozuna at WrestleMania IX on April 4, 1993.^[28] Hart also won the 1993 King of the Ring tournament on June 13, defeating Bam Bam Bigelow in the final after earlier victories over Razor Ramon and Mr. Perfect, earning him the "King of Harts" moniker and further emphasizing his endurance in multi-man formats.^[28] Hart secured his second WWF Championship reign by defeating Yokozuna at WrestleMania X on March 20, 1994, in a match remembered for its emotional intensity following Yokozuna's controversial win the previous year, holding the title for 248 days with notable defenses such as submitting Diesel in a submission match at Royal Rumble 1995 to retain amid growing U.S.-Canada storyline tensions.^[29] He lost the championship to Bob Backlund via submission in an I Quit match at Survivor Series on November 23, 1994, a shocking upset that highlighted Hart's vulnerability in family-oriented narratives.^[30] Returning stronger, Hart captured his third WWF Championship from Diesel at Survivor Series on November 19, 1995, in a no-disqualification match after a 358-day wait, only to lose it to Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XII on March 31, 1996, in a 60-minute Iron Man match—the longest bout in WrestleMania history at the time—via sudden-death overtime.^[30][29] These reigns, characterized by submission victories and resilient comebacks, cemented Hart's evolution from tag team specialist to the embodiment of technical excellence in WWF's main event scene through 1996.

Key Feuds and Montreal Screwjob (1996–1997)

In 1996 and 1997, Bret Hart engaged in several high-profile feuds within the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) that highlighted the shifting dynamics of professional wrestling during the New Generation and emerging Attitude Era. One of the most pivotal rivalries was with rising star Stone Cold Steve Austin, which intensified after Hart's successful defenses of the WWF Championship earlier in his title reign established him as the promotion's top babyface. The feud escalated when Austin defeated Hart to win the 1997 King of the Ring tournament, positioning Austin as a brash anti-hero challenging Hart's traditional values. This storyline culminated at WrestleMania 13 on March 23, 1997, in a no-disqualification submission match where Hart applied his signature Sharpshooter hold, causing Austin to pass out from blood loss without verbally submitting, securing Hart's victory. The match's brutality, including Austin's profuse bleeding which broke WWF's no-blood policy, facilitated a dramatic double turn: Hart transitioned into a heel role amid growing anti-American sentiment in his promos, while Austin emerged as the resilient fan favorite, laying foundational tones for the Attitude Era's edgier content.^[31] Parallel to the Austin rivalry, Hart's relationships with Shawn Michaels and Diesel (Kevin Nash) deteriorated due to deep-seated backstage tensions over creative control and booking decisions. As members of the influential Kliq faction, Michaels and Diesel wielded significant backstage power, often prioritizing their group's interests, which clashed with Hart's emphasis on athletic integrity and storyline logic. These conflicts boiled over in personal incidents, such as Michaels' unscripted May 19, 1997, Raw promo implying an affair between Hart and valet Sunny, which Hart viewed as a low blow crossing professional boundaries. The animosity peaked on June 9, 1997, in Hartford, Connecticut, when Hart and Michaels engaged in a physical altercation backstage, with Hart reportedly pulling out clumps of Michaels' hair during the brawl that required multiple wrestlers to intervene. Diesel, though having departed WWF for WCW in late 1996, exemplified the Kliq's lingering influence through prior disputes with Hart, including creative disagreements during their 1995 on-screen feud, which fueled Hart's broader resentment toward the group's perceived favoritism in title opportunities and match finishes.^[32] These internal strife reached a breaking point at Survivor Series on November 9, 1997, in Montreal, Quebec, during the main event for the WWF Championship between Hart and Michaels. Hart, the reigning champion since his August 1997 victory over The Undertaker, was contractually obligated to WWF but had signed with WCW and refused to drop the title to Michaels—his bitter rival—in his home country of Canada, fearing a hostile fan reaction. Unbeknownst to Hart, WWF owner Vince McMahon, in collaboration with Michaels and referee Earl Hebner, orchestrated a double-cross to force the title change and protect the championship from leaving with Hart. In the match, following a scripted referee bump, Michaels reversed Hart's Sharpshooter into his own version of the hold; Hebner, acting on McMahon's cue, prematurely rang the bell signaling Hart's submission despite no actual tap-out or verbal concession, awarding the victory and title to Michaels at 19:58. This manipulation, executed without Hart's consent, ended his WWF tenure on a note of profound betrayal.^[33] The immediate aftermath of the Montreal Screwjob unfolded in chaos both in the ring and backstage, underscoring the event's raw emotional impact. Stunned and enraged, Hart destroyed the broadcast equipment at ringside, smashing monitors and cameras while gesturing "WCW" toward the audience to signal his future affiliation. He then confronted McMahon at the entranceway, spitting directly in the promoter's face as a visceral act of defiance. Backstage, tensions escalated further when Hart physically assaulted McMahon, delivering a punch that knocked him unconscious briefly during a heated exchange over the deception. Contract disputes compounded the fallout, with McMahon later claiming on WWF television that the promotion could no longer afford Hart's lucrative 20-year deal, framing the screwjob as a necessary business decision amid financial pressures from the Monday Night Wars. These events not only severed Hart's ties with WWF but also ignited immediate locker room divisions and public scrutiny.^[34][35]

WCW Championship Reigns and Injury (1997–2000)

Following the controversial Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series 1997, where Bret Hart was stripped of the WWF Championship without his consent, he signed with World Championship Wrestling (WCW) seeking new opportunities.^[36] Hart made his WCW debut on the December 15, 1997, episode of WCW Monday Nitro, interrupting a segment involving nWo leader Eric Bischoff to declare his allegiance to WCW.^[37] Two weeks later, at Starrcade 1997, Hart served as the special guest referee for the main event match between Sting and Hollywood Hogan for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, restarting the bout after a controversial finish and ensuring Sting's victory.^[37] In 1998, Hart quickly rose in WCW's ranks, aligning with factions like the New World Order (nWo) while pursuing individual accolades. On July 20, 1998, during WCW Monday Nitro, Hart defeated Diamond Dallas Page to win the vacant WCW United States Championship by forcing Page to submit to the Sharpshooter, marking his first title reign in the promotion.^[38] He defended the title against challengers including Page in rematches and briefly lost and regained it amid ongoing nWo storylines, holding it for a total of four reigns that showcased his technical prowess against WCW's rising stars.^[39] Hart's momentum carried into 1999, where he became a central figure in WCW's championship landscape. At WCW Mayhem on November 21, 1999, Hart won the vacant WCW World Heavyweight Championship by defeating Chris Benoit in the finals of a tournament, securing the submission after interference from WCW stars including Sid Vicious.^[40] This victory ignited intense feuds, particularly with Goldberg, whom Hart had crossed paths with in earlier United States Title matches, and Sting, leading to high-stakes confrontations that highlighted Hart's veteran storytelling against WCW's powerhouses.^[37] Hart defended the World Heavyweight Title against both, including a ladder match involving Goldberg, Sid Vicious, and Scott Hall for the United States Championship earlier that year.^[41] After retaining the title via disqualification against Goldberg at Starrcade on December 19, 1999, amid controversy, it was vacated; Hart regained it by defeating Goldberg on the December 20, 1999, episode of WCW Monday Nitro, only to vacate it again on January 16, 2000, due to his injuries.^[42] The pinnacle of Hart's WCW run turned tragic at Starrcade 1999 on December 19, when he defended the WCW World Heavyweight Championship against Goldberg. During the match, Goldberg delivered a stiff kick to Hart's head, causing a severe concussion that Hart later described as debilitating.^[37] Despite retaining the title via disqualification after interference from Roddy Piper, the injury exacerbated Hart's existing head trauma issues, leading to post-concussion syndrome that severely impaired his balance, memory, and in-ring performance.^[37] By early 2000, Hart's declining health limited his appearances, with sporadic matches like a hardcore bout against Terry Funk on January 6, 2000, WCW Nitro, where he competed despite visible struggles. Creative frustrations compounded the physical toll, as WCW's booking failed to capitalize on his skills amid the promotion's internal chaos. On October 20, 2000, WCW released Hart from his contract under an injury clause, effectively ending his full-time wrestling career in the company due to his inability to perform consistently.^[43]

Independent Appearances and Initial Retirement (2000–2010)

Following his departure from World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in late 2000, Bret Hart officially announced his retirement from professional wrestling on October 25, 2000, citing severe post-concussion syndrome sustained during matches in December 1999 and January 2000, including a notable kick from Bill Goldberg at WCW Starrcade 1999 that exacerbated his symptoms.^[44][45][46] These injuries, stemming from accumulated head trauma throughout his career, left him unable to compete safely, prompting WCW to terminate his contract earlier that month due to his impaired performance capability.^[45] Hart focused on recovery during this period, emphasizing rest and medical evaluation to manage ongoing neurological effects like headaches and dizziness, which prevented any full-time return to the ring.^[47] Despite his retirement, Hart made select non-contracted appearances on the independent circuit starting in 2001, primarily with the World Wrestling All-Stars (WWA) promotion. He served as the on-screen commissioner for WWA's early events and wrestled sporadically, including a victory over Jerry Lawler on November 8, 2001, in Melbourne, Australia—his first match since January 2000—and another win against Lawler at WWA Revolution on December 1, 2001.^[16] In 2002, he participated in a six-man tag team match at WWA The Inception on January 12 in Sydney, Australia, teaming with The Honky Tonk Man and Billy Gunn to defeat Lawler, Nikita Koloff, and Buff Bagwell, followed by a no-contest against Scott Steiner at WWA The Retribution on August 24 in Memphis, Tennessee.^[16] These limited outings were designed to minimize physical risk while capitalizing on his name recognition, but Hart avoided extended tours due to lingering concussion concerns.^[47] Hart's health took a further hit on June 24, 2002, when he suffered a mild stroke after a bicycle accident in Calgary, Alberta, where he flipped over his handlebars and struck his head on the pavement, resulting in temporary paralysis on his left side.^[48][49] Medical tests confirmed the stroke was linked to the impact, compounding his prior brain injuries and requiring extensive rehabilitation, including physical therapy to regain mobility and speech.^[48][50] By 2003 and 2004, Hart remained sidelined from wrestling, prioritizing full recovery and occasionally appearing in non-physical roles, such as promotional cameos, while publicly discussing the long-term effects of his accumulated trauma.^[51] Hart's independent activity resumed minimally in 2005 and 2006, with rare one-off engagements in smaller promotions. On November 19, 2005, he made a non-wrestling appearance for Blue Water Championship Wrestling in Ontario, Canada, receiving a standing ovation from fans.^[52] In December 2005, he challenged Steve Corino for the New Generation Wrestling Heavyweight Championship in Sarnia, Ontario, though the outcome emphasized spectacle over competition.^[52] His most notable return came with 1 Pro Wrestling (1PW) in England, where he defeated Drew McDonald on March 5, 2006, in Doncaster to win the 1PW World Heavyweight Championship—his first title in over five years.^[53] Hart defended the belt in subsequent defenses against Abyss on April 8, 2006, and Samoa Joe on June 17, 2006, both in Bilston, England, before vacating it later that year due to health limitations.^[54][53] These appearances marked the extent of his ring activity through 2010, as Hart steadfastly avoided full-time wrestling to protect his recovering health, transitioning instead toward mentorship and occasional endorsements within the industry.^[47]

WWE Return and Final Matches (2010–2025)

Bret Hart's reconciliation with WWE culminated in his full return to the company in early 2010, marking the end of a 12-year hiatus stemming from the infamous Montreal Screwjob. Although inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006 during a ceremony in Chicago where he delivered an acceptance speech highlighting his career achievements, Hart's on-screen reappearance began on the January 4, 2010, episode of Raw, where he reconciled with long-time rival Shawn Michaels in a segment that drew significant fan acclaim for burying the hatchet from their 1997 feud. This moment set the stage for a high-profile storyline involving WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, reigniting tensions from the past while allowing Hart to address unresolved grievances publicly.^[55][56] The feud with McMahon escalated quickly, leading to Hart's in-ring comeback at WrestleMania 26 on March 28, 2010, in Phoenix, Arizona, where he defeated McMahon in a No Holds Barred match refereed by his brother Bruce Hart. Hart wore casual attire—a pink shirt and jean shorts—reflecting his real-life recovery from a 2002 stroke and emphasizing the personal nature of the confrontation, which ended with Hart applying his signature Sharpshooter submission hold on McMahon for the victory. This match, lasting approximately 10 minutes, symbolized closure on the Montreal Screwjob and was praised for its emotional storytelling, though critics noted Hart's limited mobility due to his health history. Following WrestleMania, Hart continued sporadic in-ring activity, including a successful defense simulation by challenging and defeating The Miz for the United States Championship on the May 31, 2010, episode of Raw in a non-title bout that showcased his technical prowess despite not capturing the belt.^[57][58][59] Hart's 2010 run extended into tag team and multi-man matches, highlighting his role as a veteran ally. On August 9, 2010, he teamed with John Cena to defeat Chris Jericho and Edge on Raw, countering interference from The Nexus stable in a chaotic main event that built toward larger storylines. At SummerSlam on August 15, 2010, in Los Angeles, Hart joined Team WWE—alongside Cena, Edge, Chris Jericho, Daniel Bryan, John Morrison, and R-Truth—in a 7-on-7 elimination match against The Nexus, contributing to the victory in a 21-minute bout that helped establish the invasion angle while marking one of his final high-profile team efforts. His last official WWE match occurred on September 25, 2010, at Madison Square Garden during a house show, effectively signaling his second retirement from in-ring competition at age 53, though he continued occasional non-competitive appearances.^[60] Post-retirement, Hart maintained a presence in WWE through sporadic guest spots and mentorship roles, particularly with NXT developmental talents via family connections and occasional on-air guidance. In 2014, he appeared on NXT to support niece Natalya in her match against Charlotte Flair, reinforcing the Hart family legacy in training future stars at the WWE Performance Center. His influence extended to advising younger wrestlers on technical fundamentals, drawing from his "Dungeon" training roots, though he limited physical involvement due to health constraints. Notable cameos included a video tribute during Raw's 25th anniversary celebration on January 22, 2018, in Brooklyn, where archival footage and messages from Hart underscored his foundational impact on the show's history, despite not attending in person amid recovery from prostate cancer treatment.^[52][61] In 2024, Hart made a surprise in-ring area appearance on the September 9 episode of Raw in Calgary, Alberta, where he delivered a promo on championship qualities before confronting World Heavyweight Champion Gunther, calling him a "coward" for denying Sami Zayn a title opportunity; this led to a brawl involving Zayn and Gunther, blending Hart's legacy with current feuds. Transitioning into 2025, Hart's WWE ties remained strong through ceremonial honors: his iconic WrestleMania 13 submission match against "Stone Cold" Steve Austin from March 23, 1997, was inducted as the inaugural "Immortal Moment" in the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2025 during a ceremony in Philadelphia, recognizing it as a pivotal no-disqualification submission bout that elevated Austin's stardom and Hart's heel turn. He provided featured commentary in the Peacock Original documentary WrestleMania IX: Becoming a Spectacle, released on April 11, 2025, which explored the 1993 event's behind-the-scenes production at Caesars Palace, including Hart's tag team title win with Jim Neidhart.^[62][63] However, tensions resurfaced when Hart was invited to SummerSlam on August 3, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio, but upon arrival, WWE staff informed him no seat had been arranged, leaving him feeling underappreciated despite his storied history with the company. This incident, shared by Hart at a comic convention, highlighted ongoing disconnects in his relationship with WWE management. His final WWE-related activity of 2025 is scheduled for November 9 in Montreal—a meet-and-greet and live interview event at Centre Leonardo Da Vinci, coinciding with the 28th anniversary of the Montreal Screwjob—serving as a poignant capstone to his sporadic returns and underscoring his enduring connection to the city and wrestling fans.^[64][65]

Wrestling Style and Persona

Technical Wrestling Approach

Bret Hart's technical wrestling approach was characterized by precision, realism, and a methodical breakdown of opponents, earning him the moniker "The Excellence of Execution." He excelled in chain wrestling sequences, seamlessly transitioning between holds, takedowns, and counters to maintain control and expose vulnerabilities, often starting matches with intricate mat work that grounded the action in believable athleticism. This style prioritized fluid reversals—such as countering arm drags into leg trips or escaping pins with hip tosses—over flashy aerial maneuvers, allowing him to dictate the pace while building tension through sustained pressure.^[3][66] His foundation drew from an amateur wrestling background, where he won city championships in high school, combined with rigorous training in the Hart Family Dungeon under his father Stu Hart and Japanese instructors like Tokyo Joe and Kazuo Sakurada. This regimen emphasized submission grappling and amateur techniques, such as bridging escapes and single-leg takedowns, which Hart adapted from Stampede Wrestling's territorial style to the larger-than-life sports entertainment of the WWF. In interviews, Hart noted learning "some amateur wrestling and submission wrestling" from his father, but crediting pro wrestling fundamentals to the Japanese trainers who instilled a focus on pain infliction and endurance testing. This blend enabled him to evolve from Stampede's hard-hitting realism into WWF's narrative-driven matches without sacrificing authenticity.^[67][12][66] Central to Hart's arsenal were submission holds, most notably the Sharpshooter, a camel clutch variation he popularized and patented, applying it with excruciating torque to the lower back and legs after wearing down the opponent. He invented his version of the hold, drawing from earlier influences like Sting's Scorpion Deathlock, but refined it for maximum realism, using it to secure his first WWF Championship against Ric Flair in 1992. Other submissions included arm-based maneuvers, such as wrenching takedowns into joint locks that hyperextended elbows and shoulders, reflecting his early Dungeon drills in arm control and escapes. These holds were not isolated; Hart integrated them into prolonged sequences, forcing opponents to tap through accumulated fatigue rather than sudden impacts.^[3][68][67] Hart's matches emphasized psychological storytelling and selling, transforming physical exchanges into narrative arcs where every strike and stagger advanced the drama. He treated bouts as "little movies," with logical progressions from technical exchanges to climactic submissions, selling injuries with visceral detail—limping after leg work or clutching limbs post-reversal—to heighten immersion and audience empathy. This mat-based focus, avoiding high-risk spots in favor of grounded psychology, shone in feuds like his submission-only clash with Steve Austin at WrestleMania 13, where mutual selling elevated the technical purity. His approach influenced WWF's shift toward workrate-driven storytelling in the 1990s.^[66][3] Among his signature moves, the Russian legsweep—a sweeping takedown from a side headlock that snapped opponents to the mat—exemplified his crisp execution, often following an inverted atomic drop to stun and unbalance foes before transitioning to submissions. The inverted atomic drop, lifting and slamming the tailbone onto his knee, served as a rhythmic setup in his sequences, disrupting rhythm without excess flair. These elements, combined with the Sharpshooter, formed a cohesive "five moves of doom" pattern that methodically dismantled adversaries, underscoring Hart's reputation as arguably the greatest technical wrestler in WWE history.^[68][69][3]

Character Development and Nicknames

Bret Hart's early wrestling persona in Stampede Wrestling emphasized his roots as a technical grappler from the Hart family Dungeon, but upon joining the WWF in 1984, he was initially positioned as "Cowboy" Bret Hart, complete with Western attire, a gimmick he briefly adopted before rejecting it as inauthentic to his identity.^[11] This short-lived character gave way to his tag team role in the Hart Foundation alongside Jim Neidhart, where he debuted the moniker "The Hitman," inspired by his self-perception as a precise executor in the ring, drawing from his lifelong affinity for the term that dated back to his childhood.^[66] The "Hitman" persona symbolized Hart's reputation for calculated strikes and submissions, aligning with his sharpshooter finishing hold and establishing him as a cool, sunglasses-wearing enforcer.^[3] As Hart transitioned to singles competition in the early 1990s, his babyface character solidified as the "Excellence of Execution," a nickname reflecting his meticulous technical style and storytelling ability, which contrasted with the era's larger-than-life powerhouses and earned praise from commentators like Gorilla Monsoon for its precision and believability.^[66] This persona highlighted themes of loyalty, integrity, and Canadian pride, often showcased through promos where Hart positioned himself as an honorable champion defending his nation's values against American excess.^[3] His signature pink and black attire, originating from a fluke suggestion by gear designer Judy of K&H Wrestling Wear for a Saturday Night's Main Event appearance—where black trunks received pink stripes as a joke that Vince McMahon insisted become permanent—reinforced this visual identity, blending the colors of the Canadian flag in a bold, memorable way.^[70] By 1997, following mounting frustrations with American fans' shifting allegiances, Hart's character evolved into an anti-American heel, railing against U.S. hypocrisy in fiery promos that decried the country's fans for booing him while cheering rivals like Stone Cold Steve Austin, thereby amplifying his role as a global hero, particularly in Canada and internationally.^[66] This shift retained core elements of his previous personas, such as the emphasis on integrity and precision, but channeled them through nationalist rhetoric, with Hart declaring himself a defender of underdogs outside America. Iconic nicknames like "The Best There Is, The Best There Was, and The Best There Ever Will Be" emerged during this period as a boastful catchphrase in his entrances and interviews, underscoring his unyielding self-confidence and technical supremacy.^[66]

Legacy and Impact

Influence on Modern Wrestling

Bret Hart played a pivotal role in elevating the emphasis on in-ring workrate and technical proficiency during the WWF's New Generation Era (1993–1997), where he championed matches grounded in realism, psychological depth, and athletic storytelling rather than reliance on spectacle or larger-than-life personas. His bouts, such as the 1991 SummerSlam clash with Mr. Perfect and the 1997 WrestleMania 13 submission match against Shawn Michaels, exemplified precise mat-based wrestling, innovative finishes like the backslide pin, and vulnerability in selling, setting a standard that prioritized credibility and endurance.^[71] This approach not only sustained fan interest amid the era's transition from Hulk Hogan's dominance but also influenced subsequent generations of wrestlers, including CM Punk, Kurt Angle, and FTR, who adopted Hart's mat fundamentals to craft compelling narratives.^[72] Hart's involvement in realistic feuds and the infamous 1997 Montreal Screwjob further bridged the New Generation to the Attitude Era, fundamentally altering perceptions of kayfabe by blending scripted drama with authentic backstage conflict. The Screwjob, where Vince McMahon orchestrated an unscripted title loss for Hart to Shawn Michaels at Survivor Series, shattered the illusion of predetermined outcomes, directly inspiring McMahon's on-screen heel persona and igniting edgier storylines like his rivalry with Stone Cold Steve Austin.^[34] This meta-event encouraged a shift toward blurred reality in wrestling programming, enabling more provocative content that propelled WWF's resurgence during the Monday Night Wars and redefined industry norms around authenticity.^[73] Beyond his in-ring legacy, Hart served as a mentor to emerging talents, particularly within the Canadian wrestling community, guiding figures like Chris Jericho and Edge toward refined technical execution and career navigation. He convinced Jericho to leave WCW for WWF opportunities and provided Edge with direct advice on performance, fostering a pipeline of skilled performers from the Hart family tradition who elevated global standards.^[74] Following his 2002 stroke, Hart became a vocal advocate for wrestler safety and greater creative autonomy, pushing for unionization to address health risks and contractual protections, as evidenced by his 2007 calls for organized labor to safeguard performers' rights and input.^[75] His emphasis on safe, controlled matches—critiquing reckless styles—continues to resonate in discussions on industry reform.^[76]

Awards and Hall of Fame Inductions

Bret Hart was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as an individual in 2006, marking a significant reconciliation following the Montreal Screwjob and recognizing his status as one of the promotion's all-time technical masters.^[77] The ceremony, held on April 1, 2006, in Chicago, highlighted Hart's five-time WWF Championship reigns and his influence on the Attitude Era's emergence, with inductors including close associates like Jerry Lawler emphasizing his in-ring precision and storytelling prowess.^[78] In 2019, Hart was inducted again into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of The Hart Foundation tag team alongside the late Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart, honoring their dominant run in the 1980s that included two WWF Tag Team Championship victories and iconic feuds against teams like The British Bulldogs.^[79] The induction, accepted by Hart and Neidhart's daughter Natalya, underscored the team's role in elevating tag team wrestling through athleticism and family legacy from the Hart Dungeon.^[80] The Wrestling Observer Newsletter recognized Hart's excellence multiple times, notably awarding him Wrestler of the Year in 1993 for his compelling WWF Championship defenses and feud with Jerry Lawler that blended real-life tension with scripted drama.^[81] Additional accolades included Feud of the Year in 1993 for the Lawler rivalry and multiple five-star match ratings, affirming his peerless work rate and psychology during the New Generation Era. Pro Wrestling Illustrated honored Hart with several Match of the Year awards, including his 1992 SummerSlam bout against cousin Davey Boy Smith, which showcased intercontinental title stakes and family drama in a 20-minute classic.^[82] He repeated the feat in 1996 for his Iron Man match with Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XII, a 60-minute endurance test that defined technical supremacy, and in 1997 for the submission spectacle against "Stone Cold" Steve Austin at WrestleMania XIII, pivotal in launching the Attitude Era.^[82] In 2021, Hart received induction into Canada's Walk of Fame in the Sports & Athletics category, celebrating his Calgary roots and global elevation of Canadian wrestling through seven world titles and the Hart family tradition.^[13] The honor, marked by a star on Toronto's Walk and tributes from figures like Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, highlighted his role in inspiring international talent. Most recently, in 2025, Hart and Steve Austin were awarded the inaugural WWE Immortal Moment for their WrestleMania 13 match, inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame to commemorate its lasting impact on storytelling and star-making moments in professional wrestling history.^[62] This recognition, presented at the ceremony, solidified the bout's legacy as a cornerstone of Hart's career accolades.

Post-Wrestling Ventures

Writing and Memoirs

Bret Hart's primary literary contribution is his autobiography, Hitman: My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling, published in 2007 by Random House Canada and co-authored with journalist Ken Lefko. The book provides a detailed account of his upbringing in the Hart wrestling family, his rise to prominence in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), and pivotal career moments, including the controversial Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series 1997.^[83] Hart emphasizes personal integrity and the gritty realities of professional wrestling over sensationalized narratives, offering insights into the physical and emotional toll of the industry while reflecting on family dynamics and betrayals.^[84] In addition to his memoir, Hart has contributed forewords and afterwords to several wrestling-related books, highlighting his respect for wrestling's foundational figures. For instance, he wrote the foreword to King of the Ring: The Harley Race Story (2004), praising Race's toughness and influence on wrestlers like himself as emblematic of the sport's demanding ethos. Similarly, Hart provided the foreword for Tributes II: Remembering More of the World's Greatest Professional Wrestlers (2004), where he discussed the evolution of wrestling journalism and paid homage to deceased peers, underscoring themes of legacy and authenticity in his writing.^[85] These contributions reflect Hart's commitment to documenting wrestling history through a lens of personal truth rather than exaggeration. Hart also maintained a regular column in the Calgary Sun from the late 1990s into the early 2000s, where he shared candid opinions on current wrestling events, rivalries, and industry changes.^[86] Notable pieces include his 1997 "Letter to Shawn" addressing tensions with Shawn Michaels ahead of Survivor Series, and tributes to figures like Hulk Hogan and Rick Rude, often critiquing the shift toward entertainment over athleticism while advocating for wrestlers' welfare.^[87] These columns, popular among fans for their straightforward style, reinforced Hart's voice as a thoughtful commentator on wrestling's cultural impact.^[88] In recognition of his broader contributions to wrestling, including his written works that preserve its history, Hart received an honorary Bachelor of Physical Literacy from Mount Royal University in 2018, an institution he briefly attended in the 1970s before pursuing wrestling full-time.^[89] This honor acknowledged his role in elevating the profession's profile through memoirs and reflections that blend personal narrative with educational value.^[90]

Acting and Media Roles

Bret Hart has ventured into acting and media appearances beyond his wrestling career, leveraging his fame to take on supporting roles in films, guest spots on television series, and contributions to documentaries focused on his life and the wrestling industry. His on-screen presence often draws from his real-life persona as a stoic, no-nonsense figure, adding authenticity to characters in thrillers and comedies alike.^[91] One of Hart's earliest non-wrestling media roles came in the 1996 episode "The Ties That Bind" of the adventure series The Adventures of Sinbad, where he portrayed Eyolf, a menacing Viking warrior involved in a kidnapping plot. This guest appearance showcased his physicality in a fantasy setting, marking an early foray into scripted television outside the ring.^[92] In 1997, Hart made a memorable cameo as himself in the animated episode "The Old Man and the Lisa" of The Simpsons, where he interacts with Mr. Burns in a humorous storyline involving bad investments and a recycling scheme. Voicing his own likeness, Hart delivered lines that highlighted his sharp wit, contributing to the show's tradition of celebrity crossovers. This role, originally planned to involve a larger wrestling segment, was trimmed but remains a fan-favorite nod to his status in pop culture.^[93] Hart's documentary features have been particularly prominent, providing introspective looks at his career highs and lows. The 1998 film Hitman Hart: Wrestling with Shadows captures his controversial departure from the WWF, with Hart as the central subject offering raw personal insights into the Montreal Screwjob. Similarly, the 2010 television documentary Bret Hart: Survival of the Hitman chronicles his rise in wrestling and post-WCW struggles, featuring Hart in archival footage and new interviews that emphasize his resilience. More recently, in the 2025 Peacock Original WrestleMania IX: Becoming a Spectacle, Hart provides commentary on the event's chaotic production, reflecting on his Intercontinental Championship win and the toga-themed spectacle at Caesars Palace. These projects not only feature Hart prominently but also underscore his influence on wrestling history.^[94][95][96] Transitioning to live-action films in the 2010s and 2020s, Hart appeared as himself in the 2014 wrestling documentary The Sheik, discussing the legendary promoter's impact on the industry. He took on a supporting dramatic role as Brad in the 2021 horror-thriller Demented, playing a detective investigating supernatural murders tied to dark web videos, blending his authoritative presence with genre elements. In 2022's claustrophobic thriller Stalker, Hart portrayed Grant, a photographer trapped in an elevator with a deranged fan, delivering a tense performance in the film's confined setting.^[97][98] Hart has also embraced voice acting in animated series, often playing exaggerated versions of his wrestling archetype. In the 2020 episode "Sound and Fury" of Corner Gas Animated, he voiced The Bad Mechanic, a villainous auto shop owner in a Canadian small-town comedy, sharing the screen with fellow wrestlers Trish Stratus and Lance Storm in a meta storyline about good versus evil. More recently, in the 2024 American Dad! episode "Under (and Over, and Beside) the Boardwalk," Hart voiced a wrestler character saving the Smith family, noting in interviews that he adjusted his delivery to fit the animated format while drawing from his real experiences. These roles highlight how Hart's wrestling legacy continues to inform his media contributions, bridging sports entertainment with broader television audiences.^[99][100]

Business, Charity, and Public Appearances

Following his retirement from in-ring competition, Bret Hart ventured into various entrepreneurial pursuits, leveraging his iconic status in professional wrestling. In 2021, he signed a spokesperson and endorsement deal with Calgary-based Romero Distilling Co., becoming the brand ambassador for their rum products.^[101] This partnership led to the release of the limited-edition Hitman Edition Romero Dark Rum in late 2024, a collector's item featuring a sketch by Hart himself and available through his official website.^[102] Additionally, Hart maintains an active online merchandise store at brethart.com, offering branded apparel such as hoodies, t-shirts, and jerseys inspired by his wrestling career, including vintage Hitman ring gear designs.^[103] His endorsements extend to other ventures, including Gold Standard Grading for collectibles and Roots of Fight for apparel collaborations.^[104] Hart has been deeply involved in philanthropy, particularly in cancer awareness efforts following his personal health battles. Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2016, he underwent successful surgery and has since become a prominent advocate, participating in events like the annual Bret Hart Men's Health Day at the Prostate Cancer Centre in Calgary to promote PSA testing and early detection.^[105] In 2017, he joined his brother Smith Hart in championing prostate cancer screenings through public appearances and fundraisers at the Calgary Prostate Centre.^[106] Hart has also supported broader cancer initiatives, such as running in the 2017 Terry Fox Run to raise funds in honor of the Canadian icon, drawing on his own experience to encourage donations and awareness.^[107] In July 2025, Hart partnered with Amazon to deliver over 100 essential items, including school supplies and apparel, to the Children’s Cottage Society in Calgary as part of the Caring Together campaign.^[108] Regarding family philanthropy, the Owen Hart Foundation—established in 2000 by Martha Hart after Owen's tragic death in 1999—focuses on scholarships and community support, with Bret contributing to memorial fundraisers as part of the Hart family's ongoing legacy efforts.^[109] In his public life, Hart frequently engages with fans through conventions and special events, though he selectively manages his schedule. In October 2025, he withdrew from The Big Event convention in Brentwood, New York, scheduled for November 15, citing the need to reschedule northeastern U.S. dates, an event that also featured Bill Goldberg.^[110] Despite this, Hart maintains an active presence, with his final appearance of 2025 set for November 9 in Montreal at the Centre Leonardo Da Vinci, commemorating the anniversary of the 1997 Montreal Screwjob incident through a live fan meet-and-greet and discussion.^[65] His enduring popularity is further evidenced in digital media, where he has been a playable character in the WWE 2K video game series since WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008, appearing in subsequent titles including WWE 2K25 as part of the Legends roster, allowing fans to recreate his technical matches.^[111]

Personal Life

Family Dynamics

Bret Hart's first marriage was to Julie Smadu in 1982, with whom he remained until their divorce in 2002 after two decades together.^[112] The couple had four children during their union: daughters Jade and Alexandra (often nicknamed "Beans"), and sons Dallas and Blade.^[113] Following his divorce, Hart married Italian native Cinzia Rota in 2004, though the union ended in divorce by 2007 amid challenges related to their differing locations and lifestyles.^[114] Hart found lasting companionship in his third marriage to Stephanie Washington, whom he wed in 2010 after meeting her in 2008; the couple continues to share a stable partnership without children of their own.^[114] While some of Hart's children have pursued varied paths outside the wrestling spotlight, his sons Dallas and Blade remain involved in the industry, co-founding Dungeon Wrestling in 2022. Family ties to wrestling persist through extended relatives like his niece Natalya Neidhart, a prominent WWE performer and daughter of Hart's late brother-in-law Jim Neidhart.^[113] Jade Hart, the eldest, has been vocal about her personal triumphs, including overcoming breast cancer; diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, she underwent a double mastectomy with reconstructive surgery and was declared 100% cancer-free in October 2025, while maintaining close family connections.^[115] Hart is also a grandfather, with grandchildren such as Kyra Beans Hart, daughter of Jade, representing the next generation in the family lineage.^[114] As part of the renowned Hart wrestling family, Bret shared a particularly close yet competitive bond with his younger brother Owen Hart, marked by intense sibling rivalries that translated into iconic professional feuds, including their critically acclaimed matches in 1993 and 1994.^[116] This dynamic culminated tragically on May 23, 1999, when Owen died in a freak in-ring accident during the WWE's Over the Edge pay-per-view event in Kansas City, Missouri, an event that deeply affected the entire Hart family. The loss led to strengthened resolve among some family members but also contributed to rifts, including a longstanding conflict between Bret and Owen's widow Martha Hart over legacy and WWE involvement.^[117] The Hart family maintains a robust support network through regular gatherings and shared traditions rooted in their Calgary heritage, providing Bret with ongoing emotional backing amid his post-wrestling life.^[4] These familial assemblies, often centered around holidays and milestones, highlight the enduring unity of the dynasty, where Bret serves as a central figure offering guidance to younger relatives involved in wrestling or other pursuits.^[4]

Health Challenges

Bret Hart has endured a series of significant health challenges throughout and following his wrestling career, primarily stemming from repeated head trauma and later medical diagnoses. His history includes numerous concussions accumulated over two decades in professional wrestling, where high-impact maneuvers frequently resulted in head injuries.^[118] One particularly severe incident occurred on December 19, 1999, during a WCW World Heavyweight Championship match against Goldberg at Starrcade, when Hart sustained a concussion from a stiff kick to the head.^[119] Despite the injury, Hart continued wrestling for several more weeks, exacerbating the damage and contributing to the development of post-concussion syndrome, a condition characterized by persistent symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties.^[120] This syndrome ultimately forced his retirement from in-ring competition in October 2000, as medical evaluations deemed further matches too risky.^[118] In June 2002, Hart suffered another major health setback when he experienced a stroke-like episode following a bicycle accident in Calgary, where he hit a pothole, flipped over the handlebars, and landed on the back of his head.^[48] The incident caused acute hemiparesis, resulting in limited control and paralysis on the left side of his body, along with temporary vision issues in his left eye, though no permanent brain damage occurred.^[121] Hart underwent months of intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation, gradually regaining much of his mobility, though subtle remnants of the hemiparesis persist.^[122] More than a decade later, in early 2016, Hart was diagnosed with prostate cancer after routine check-ups revealed elevated PSA levels.^[123] He underwent a successful robotic-assisted prostatectomy on February 10, 2016, a minimally invasive procedure that preserved nerve function and led to a full recovery, with Hart declaring himself cancer-free shortly thereafter.^[124][125] This early detection and treatment underscored Hart's emphasis on regular medical screenings for men over 40.^[123]

Notable Personal Conflicts

Bret Hart's professional relationship with Ric Flair soured during their 1992 encounters in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), particularly surrounding the WWF Championship transition. Flair, the reigning champion, reportedly refused to drop the title to Hart on television due to a self-reported shoulder injury, resulting in the title change occurring at a non-televised house show in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, on October 12, 1992. Hart viewed this as Flair intentionally "stiffing" him by denying a high-profile moment to elevate his status, exacerbating tensions from earlier interactions like Flair eliminating Hart from the 1992 Royal Rumble match. During their in-ring bouts, Flair allegedly delivered subpar performances and accidentally—or intentionally, in Hart's opinion—injured Hart's hand by chopping a turnbuckle, leading Hart to accuse Flair of undermining him out of ego and resentment toward WWF's creative direction. Flair later intensified the feud in his 2004 autobiography To Be the Man, describing their title match as "awful" and labeling Hart as inexperienced and overly reliant on family connections, comments that Hart dismissed as bitter excuses from a wrestler past his prime.^[126][127] In the mid-1990s, Hart publicly addressed backstage bullying within WWF, specifically alleging that Shawn Michaels and Triple H targeted Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson during his rookie year as Rocky Maivia in 1996 and 1997. According to Hart, the two, feeling threatened by Johnson's rapid rise and charisma, engaged in hazing tactics such as verbal abuse, pranks, and attempts to provoke him into quitting, part of a broader pattern by the Kliq faction to protect their top positions. Hart, who mentored Johnson and opposed such behavior, recounted intervening to support the newcomer, stating that the bullying stemmed from jealousy over Johnson's potential to eclipse them as the company's next big star. Michaels and Triple H never publicly apologized for these actions, though Hart noted Johnson's resilience ultimately propelled him to superstardom despite the hostility.^[128][129] The most infamous of Hart's personal conflicts arose from the 1997 Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series, where WWF owner Vince McMahon orchestrated a double-cross by instructing Shawn Michaels to apply the Sharpshooter submission hold on Hart without his consent, resulting in an impromptu title loss to facilitate Hart's departure amid contract disputes with World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Deeply betrayed, Hart physically assaulted McMahon backstage, punching him and causing a black eye and sprained ankle, an act Hart later described as his most satisfying moment. The resentment persisted for over a decade, with Hart refusing WWE overtures and publicly denouncing McMahon as untrustworthy, until a gradual thaw beginning in 2005 culminated in full reconciliation in 2010. That year, Hart returned to WWE programming, emotionally embraced Michaels on the January 4 episode of Raw, and competed against McMahon in a no-disqualification match at WrestleMania XXVI, defeating him cleanly to symbolically settle the score and restore professional ties.^[34][130] Hart has remained outspoken about perceived flaws in modern WWE booking and certain industry figures, often contrasting it with the technical, story-driven wrestling of his era. He has criticized contemporary storylines for prioritizing spectacle and scripted drama over authentic in-ring psychology, describing many performers as "actors pretending to be wrestlers" who rely on flips and fake impacts rather than selling moves realistically. Specifically targeting Hulk Hogan, Hart has accused the icon of selfishness, claiming Hogan never helped elevate younger talent and actively blocked opportunities, such as refusing a clean loss to Hart in 1993 to protect his drawing power. In legacy discussions, Hart argued that no modern wrestlers imitate Hogan's style, instead emulating his own precise technique, and labeled Hogan a "roadblock" whose politics hindered the business's evolution. These views, expressed in interviews as recent as 2025, underscore Hart's frustration with WWE's shift away from the workrate he championed.^{[131][132][133]}

Championships and Accomplishments

Major Wrestling Titles

Bret Hart achieved significant success as a multiple-time world champion across major promotions, holding 17 recognized titles in WWF/WWE and WCW combined, with additional accomplishments in territorial wrestling.^[42] His reigns emphasized technical mastery and elevated the prestige of each belt he captured.^[3]

WWF/WWE Championships

Hart secured the WWF Championship five times between 1992 and 1997, accumulating a total of 654 days as champion, the most of any wrestler in the 1990s.^[42] His reigns are detailed below: He also won the WWF Intercontinental Championship twice, first on August 26, 1991, by defeating Mr. Perfect at SummerSlam, and second on April 5, 1992, against Roddy Piper at WrestleMania VIII.^[3] These 146- and 124-day reigns, respectively, showcased his versatility as a singles competitor.^[42] He won the WWE United States Championship on May 17, 2010, defeating The Miz in a No Disqualification match on Raw (7 days).^[135] As part of The Hart Foundation with brother-in-law Jim Neidhart, Hart captured the WWF World Tag Team Championship twice: on August 26, 1987, defeating The British Bulldogs at SummerSlam (274 days), and on August 27, 1990, against Demolition at SummerSlam (209 days).^[42]

WCW Championships

In WCW, Hart held the WCW World Heavyweight Championship twice. First, he won the vacant title on November 21, 1999, defeating Chris Benoit in a tournament final at Mayhem (29 days, vacated December 20 after controversial finish with Goldberg at Starrcade). Second, he defeated Goldberg on December 20, 1999, on Nitro (27 days, vacated January 16, 2000, due to injury). He won the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship four times from 1997 to 1999. His first reign began with a victory over Steve McMichael on September 15, 1997, at Fall Brawl. Subsequent reigns were November 16, 1997 – December 28, 1997; July 20 – August 10, 1998; and October 25 – November 8, 1999.^[42][136] He also won the WCW World Tag Team Championship once with Bill Goldberg on December 7, 1999, on Thunder, holding it for 6 days.

Earlier Territorial Titles

Prior to national prominence, Hart dominated in Stampede Wrestling, winning the Stampede North American Heavyweight Championship five times from 1982 to 1984, including a notable 1983 reign of 74 days.^[42] He also secured the Stampede International Tag Team Championship six times, often partnering with Neidhart or others like Leo Burke, establishing the foundation of his tag team expertise.^[42] These early victories in his family's Calgary-based promotion underscored his technical prowess and family legacy in Canadian wrestling.^[2] These championships formed the core of Hart's legacy as "The Excellence of Execution," contributing to his induction into multiple halls of fame.^[3]

Other Honors and Records

Bret Hart has received numerous accolades throughout his wrestling career, including multiple inductions into halls of fame. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame individually in 2006, recognized for his technical prowess and contributions to the industry.^[3] In 2019, he was inducted again as part of The Hart Foundation alongside Jim Neidhart, honoring their tag team legacy.^[137] In 2025, Hart became the first wrestler to receive three WWE Hall of Fame honors with the inaugural "Immortal Moment" award, shared with Stone Cold Steve Austin for their iconic WrestleMania 13 submission match.^[62] Additionally, in 2006, he received the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame award from the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, acknowledging his amateur and professional achievements.^[14] Hart earned several Slammy Awards during his WWF tenure, which recognized standout performances and moments. In 1994, he won Best New Generation Spot for his emotional "Go Get 'em, Champ!" promo following his WrestleMania X title loss.^[138] At the 1996 Slammy Awards, he secured three honors: Best Music Video for his entrance theme compilation, "Put a Fork in Him, He's Done" for the Sharpshooter submission hold, and "Which WWF Champion is Hall of Fame Bound?" as a nod to his legacy.^[139] He was also named WWF Superstar of the Year in 1993, highlighting his rise as a main event performer.^[140] In professional wrestling journalism, Hart's matches and feuds frequently topped awards lists. Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) ranked him No. 1 in their annual PWI 500 in both 1993 and 1994, establishing him as the top wrestler during his peak years.^[140] He garnered PWI Match of the Year honors three times: for his 1992 SummerSlam bout against brother Owen Hart, the 1996 WrestleMania XII Iron Man match with Shawn Michaels, and the 1997 WrestleMania 13 submission classic against Steve Austin.^[140] PWI also awarded him Feud of the Year for his 1993 rivalry with Jerry Lawler and 1994 sibling conflict with Owen Hart, underscoring his storytelling impact.^[140] The Wrestling Observer Newsletter inducted him into their Hall of Fame in 1996 and recognized his 1997 double-turn match with Austin as Match of the Year.^[140] Among other recognitions, Hart won the 1996 WWF Middle East Cup tournament and received the Cauliflower Alley Club's Iron Mike Award in 2008 for his contributions to wrestling.^[140] In 2021, he was inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame, celebrating his cultural influence as a Canadian icon.^[140] These honors reflect his enduring legacy beyond championships, including records such as appearing in 12 of the first 13 WrestleMania events and holding Intercontinental Championship reigns that influenced the division's prestige.^[141]