What if Bret Hart Never Left WWE?

Imagine a world where the Montreal Screwjob never happened, and Bret Hart continued his legendary career in the WWE. It’s a fascinating thought, considering how influential Hart was during his time with the company. Let’s dive into what could have been if Bret Hart never left WWE.

The Montreal Screwjob

To fully understand the impact of Bret Hart leaving WWE, we must first revisit the infamous Montreal Screwjob. In 1997, during a match between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels at Survivor Series, Vince McMahon ordered referee Earl Hebner to ring the bell and declare Michaels the winner without Bret’s knowledge or consent.

This incident created an immense rift between Bret Hart and Vince McMahon, ultimately leading to Hart’s departure from WWE. But what if this incident never occurred? How would it have affected both Bret Hart’s career and the landscape of professional wrestling?

Bret Hart’s Continuing Legacy

If Bret Hart had stayed in WWE following the Montreal Screwjob, his legacy would have continued to grow even further. As one of the most technically skilled wrestlers of all time, his matches would have undoubtedly added more classic moments to an already impressive catalog.

With his unparalleled charisma and in-ring ability, it is likely that he would have held numerous championship reigns and headlined many more pay-per-view events. His matches against top stars like The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and Triple H would have been dream matchups for fans around the world.

Influence on Future Wrestlers

Hart’s influence on future generations of wrestlers cannot be understated. His technical prowess and dedication to storytelling in the ring inspired countless performers who followed in his footsteps.

Technical Wrestling: Bret Hart’s wrestling style focused on technical skills, mat-based offense, and submission holds. If he had stayed in WWE, more wrestlers might have adopted this style, creating a new generation of technically proficient performers.
Character Development: Hart’s ability to connect with the audience through his character work was exceptional.
His commitment to storytelling and emotional investment in his matches would have influenced other wrestlers to delve deeper into their characters.
Respect for Tradition: Bret Hart always respected the traditions and history of professional wrestling. His dedication to upholding the values of the industry would have set an example for younger talents, ensuring that traditional wrestling principles remained alive.

The Landscape of WWE

If Bret Hart had never left WWE, it would have undoubtedly impacted the company’s trajectory. His departure opened doors for new stars to rise, but his continued presence would have shaped the landscape differently.

The famed Attitude Era, characterized by edgier content and a shift towards more adult-oriented programming, might not have gained as much prominence without Hart’s absence. His influence could have steered WWE in a different direction creatively while maintaining a focus on technical wrestling and storytelling.

Rivalries and Dream Matches

Bret Hart’s staying power in WWE would have paved the way for several dream matches and unforgettable rivalries. Potential matchups against The Undertaker, Kurt Angle, Eddie Guerrero, or even John Cena could have produced some of the greatest bouts in professional wrestling history.

The possibilities are endless when you consider how many talented wrestlers crossed paths with Hart during his career. Each encounter could have added another chapter to his already storied legacy.

A Different Legacy

If Bret Hart had never left WWE, his legacy would have undoubtedly been different. He may have remained with the company until his retirement, continuing to inspire and elevate the sport of professional wrestling.

While we can only speculate about what might have been, one thing is certain: Bret Hart’s impact on the world of wrestling is undeniable. Whether he stayed in WWE or not, his contributions will forever be etched in the annals of sports entertainment.

So, as we reflect on the “what if” scenario, let’s appreciate the incredible career Bret Hart had and cherish the moments he gifted us during his time in WWE.