Hey wrestling fans! Ever heard of Bret 'Hitman' Hart? If you're a wrestling aficionado, the name probably rings a bell. But for those newer to the scene, or maybe just need a refresher, this article is for you. We're diving deep into the career of one of the most technically proficient and respected wrestlers of all time. We're talking about a guy who didn't just wrestle, he performed, he told stories, and he left an undeniable mark on the world of professional wrestling. So, grab your popcorn, and let's explore the life and times of the legendary Bret 'Hitman' Hart.

Early Life and Training: The Foundation of a Wrestling Dynasty

Before he was the 'Hitman,' Bret Hart was just a kid growing up in a wrestling family. Yes, guys, you heard that right! Wrestling is in his blood. Born into the famous Hart wrestling family, Bret was exposed to the business from a young age. His father, Stu Hart, was a legendary wrestler and promoter who ran the Stampede Wrestling promotion in Calgary, Canada. Imagine growing up in that environment – surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of professional wrestling! This early exposure was crucial in shaping Bret's understanding of the sport, and it provided him with the foundation he needed to excel.

Bret didn't just walk into the ring; he put in the work, undergoing rigorous training under his father's watchful eye. Stu Hart's training camp, known as the 'Dungeon,' was legendary for its grueling drills and tough-love approach. It was a baptism by fire, but it forged Bret into a technically sound and resilient wrestler. This early training instilled in him a deep respect for the craft and a commitment to excellence that would define his career. He wasn't just learning how to wrestle; he was learning how to be a professional, how to connect with the audience, and how to tell compelling stories in the ring. This meticulous training, the rigorous routines and drills, the constant sparring, and the mental fortitude instilled within him set him apart from his peers. The Dungeon was where the Hitman was truly born, honing his skills, perfecting his signature moves, and developing the unparalleled technical prowess that would later become his trademark. This early foundation proved crucial in his success.

The influence of his family extended beyond just his father. Bret grew up surrounded by other wrestlers, learning from their experiences and absorbing their knowledge. The Hart family was a wrestling dynasty, and Bret was determined to live up to their legacy. This combination of natural talent, rigorous training, and family support created the perfect storm, setting the stage for Bret Hart's rise to wrestling stardom. This is where it all began, guys, where the legend started brewing, and where the 'Hitman' slowly but surely began his journey to the top of the wrestling world, ready to etch his name in the history books.

Stampede Wrestling and Early Career: Honing the Craft

Before hitting the big time in the WWE, Bret Hart cut his teeth in his father's Stampede Wrestling promotion. This was his proving ground, where he refined his skills and developed his unique wrestling style. It was a place where he could experiment, learn from his mistakes, and build a connection with the fans.

Stampede Wrestling was a breeding ground for talent, and Bret Hart quickly stood out. He showcased his technical proficiency, his smooth in-ring style, and his ability to tell compelling stories through his matches. He was also able to experiment with different personas and develop his own unique character, which would later become the 'Hitman.' This was where he truly began to understand the intricacies of wrestling, how to work the crowd, and how to craft a memorable performance.

During his time with Stampede Wrestling, Bret Hart won numerous championships, including the Stampede North American Heavyweight Championship and the Stampede International Tag Team Championship. These victories were a testament to his talent and his dedication to the craft. He was not just a wrestler; he was a champion, and he was quickly becoming a fan favorite. These titles were more than just gold; they were a symbol of his hard work and commitment.

The experience Bret gained in Stampede Wrestling was invaluable. It allowed him to develop his skills, gain experience, and build a strong foundation for his future success in the WWE. It was where he learned to wrestle with passion and precision. It was where he learned to connect with the audience and tell compelling stories. It was where he truly became the 'Hitman,' and he was ready to take on the world. The time spent in the Canadian wrestling circuit was instrumental in shaping him into the wrestling icon we remember today.

WWF/WWE Rise to Stardom: The 'Hitman' Era

In 1984, Bret Hart made the jump to the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), which later became the WWE. This was the big leagues, guys, and it was where his career truly took off. He initially teamed with his brother-in-law, Jim Neidhart, as the tag team known as the Hart Foundation. They quickly became a force to be reckoned with, capturing the WWF Tag Team Championship twice.

The Hart Foundation, with Bret's technical prowess and Neidhart's power, was a perfect blend of styles. They were a well-oiled machine, and they captivated the fans with their exciting matches and their unique look. Bret and Neidhart were a fantastic team, bringing a blend of technical skill and raw power to the ring. They were dynamic and thrilling to watch, making them one of the most popular tag teams of the era. They gave the WWE Universe some classic tag team moments.

As Bret Hart's career progressed, he began to transition into a singles competitor. He showcased his incredible technical ability, his charismatic personality, and his uncanny ability to connect with the fans. This transition marked the beginning of the 'Hitman' era. His signature shades, leather jacket, and the iconic 'Hart Attack' quickly became synonymous with excellence in the ring.

Bret's success wasn't just about his in-ring skills; he was also a master storyteller. He understood how to create compelling storylines and how to get the audience invested in his matches. He was able to convey complex emotions, to make the crowd cheer for him, and to make them boo his opponents. He had a way of bringing people into the moment. This made his matches unforgettable, and it cemented his status as one of the top wrestlers in the world. He was a master of his craft, both in the ring and in his ability to connect with the audience, making him a true icon.

Bret Hart's success in the WWF/WWE culminated in multiple WWF Championship reigns, further solidifying his place as a main-event player. He was a champion, a fan favorite, and an icon. He was the 'Hitman,' and he was at the top of his game. He battled with the biggest names in the business, and he always delivered, creating memorable matches that are still talked about today.

Defining Matches and Moments: The Legacy of Excellence

Bret Hart's career is filled with unforgettable matches and moments that have become legendary in the wrestling world. Let's delve into some of the most memorable ones:

• WrestleMania V vs. Bad News Brown: This match showcased Bret's technical skills and his ability to work against a power wrestler. It was a great display of contrasting styles. It helped cement his position as a rising star.
• SummerSlam 1991 vs. Mr. Perfect: This match is considered by many to be one of the greatest wrestling matches of all time. Bret and Mr. Perfect delivered a technical masterpiece. It was a defining moment for Bret and showcased his incredible ability.
• Survivor Series 1992 vs. Ric Flair: This match was for the WWF Championship and was a significant moment in Bret's career. It marked his first WWF Championship win. This was a pivotal moment in his career. It showed that he was ready to lead the company.
• WrestleMania X vs. Yokozuna: This match was a battle for the WWF Championship, and it showcased Bret's resilience and determination. He wrestled with heart and skill. It was a thrilling match that solidified his championship status.
• The Iron Man Match at WrestleMania XII vs. Shawn Michaels: This match is one of the most iconic in wrestling history. It was a 60-minute Iron Man match for the WWF Championship, and it was a test of endurance and skill. The match displayed exceptional storytelling. It ended in a draw, but it paved the way for a rematch that would define their careers.
• The Montreal Screwjob (Survivor Series 1997): This is one of the most controversial moments in wrestling history. Bret lost the WWF Championship to Shawn Michaels under highly disputed circumstances. The Montreal Screwjob is still talked about today. It had a lasting impact on the wrestling world.

These matches and moments showcase Bret Hart's incredible talent and his ability to deliver unforgettable performances. They are a testament to his legacy and his impact on the wrestling world. He had a natural ability to captivate audiences, and his matches remain some of the most celebrated in wrestling history.

The Montreal Screwjob and Its Aftermath: Controversy and Departure

The Montreal Screwjob, as mentioned, is perhaps the most infamous event in Bret Hart's career. It occurred at Survivor Series 1997, where Bret was scheduled to defend his WWF Championship against Shawn Michaels.

During the match, the referee, Earl Hebner, controversially called for the bell, despite Bret not submitting. This was because Vince McMahon, the owner of the WWF, secretly instructed Hebner to end the match, as Bret was refusing to lose the title to Michaels in Canada. Bret, unaware of the plan, was caught off guard, and the match ended in a highly controversial manner.

The aftermath of the Montreal Screwjob was a mixture of shock, anger, and betrayal. Bret felt betrayed by Vince McMahon and the WWF, and he left the company soon after, heading to WCW. The event created a rift between Bret, McMahon, and Michaels that lasted for years.

The Screwjob had a profound impact on the wrestling world. It generated significant controversy and debate. It also highlighted the complex relationship between wrestlers, promoters, and the business of professional wrestling. The incident became a symbol of betrayal and the ruthlessness of the wrestling industry.

While the Montreal Screwjob was a low point in Bret's career, it didn't diminish his legacy. He eventually returned to the WWE years later and made peace with McMahon and Michaels. The incident remains a significant part of wrestling history, and it serves as a reminder of the drama and intrigue that often surrounds the sport.

WCW Run and Later Years: Continuing the Journey

After leaving the WWF, Bret Hart joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW). While his time in WCW wasn't as successful as his WWF run, he still made an impact.

In WCW, he won the WCW World Heavyweight Championship twice and the WCW United States Championship once. He had memorable matches with wrestlers such as Goldberg, Chris Benoit, and Sting.

However, Bret's time in WCW was also marked by injuries. A concussion sustained in a match with Goldberg led to his early retirement from in-ring competition.

Later in his career, Bret Hart returned to the WWE in 2010. He had a memorable feud with Vince McMahon and wrestled a match against him at WrestleMania 26. He also teamed with other wrestlers and made appearances on WWE television.

Bret Hart's return to the WWE was a welcome event for fans who had missed seeing him. He eventually made peace with Vince McMahon and Shawn Michaels, resolving the controversies from the Montreal Screwjob.

Legacy and Influence: The Enduring Impact of the 'Hitman'

Bret 'Hitman' Hart is more than just a wrestler; he's an icon. His technical prowess, his storytelling ability, and his dedication to the craft have left an undeniable impact on the world of professional wrestling.

He is considered one of the greatest in-ring performers of all time. His technical skill and precision set a new standard for wrestling. His influence can be seen in the style of numerous wrestlers today.

Bret's matches with wrestlers such as Shawn Michaels, Mr. Perfect, and Owen Hart are considered classics. They are still watched and enjoyed by fans around the world. His contributions to the art of wrestling are immeasurable.

His legacy extends beyond the ring. He is admired for his professionalism, his integrity, and his commitment to excellence. He inspired generations of wrestlers. He also remains a beloved figure among wrestling fans.

Bret's influence can still be seen in the ring today. Many wrestlers have adopted his technical style and his storytelling approach. He set a standard for wrestling that continues to influence the sport. His contributions to the sport continue to resonate.

Conclusion: The 'Hitman' Forever

Bret 'Hitman' Hart's career is a testament to his talent, his dedication, and his passion for professional wrestling. From his early days in the Hart family to his iconic battles in the WWE, he captivated audiences with his technical skill, his compelling storytelling, and his unforgettable charisma.

His legacy continues to inspire wrestlers and entertain fans. His matches remain some of the most celebrated in wrestling history. His name will forever be etched in the annals of wrestling.

He's a true legend. Bret Hart, the 'Hitman,' will always be remembered as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. He's a wrestler who didn't just entertain, he elevated the sport. So, next time you're watching a wrestling match, remember the 'Hitman,' and the indelible mark he left on the world.