Why Did Bret Hart Leave WWE?By Coder| September 28, 2023 Wrestling Blogs Why Did Bret Hart Leave WWE? When it comes to the world of professional wrestling, few names are as synonymous with excellence as Bret “The Hitman” Hart. Known for his technical prowess, charismatic personality, and iconic pink and black attire, Hart was a fan favorite during his tenure in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). However, in 1997, the wrestling landscape was forever changed when Hart made the shocking decision to leave WWE. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this monumental departure. The Montreal Screwjob The catalyst for Hart’s departure can be traced back to a fateful night on November 9, 1997, at the Survivor Series pay-per-view event. At the time, Hart was the reigning WWE Champion and was set to defend his title against Shawn Michaels. However, tensions were high between Hart and WWE management due to contract negotiations. In an unprecedented turn of events, during the match’s final moments, Vince McMahon – WWE’s owner – instructed referee Earl Hebner to ring the bell early and declare Michaels the winner via submission. This infamous incident became known as “The Montreal Screwjob.” The Betrayal The Montreal Screwjob left a bitter taste in Hart’s mouth. He felt betrayed by McMahon and believed that he had been disrespected in front of his hometown crowd in Montreal. The incident shattered trust between Hart and WWE management. WCW Offer In addition to feeling betrayed by WWE management, another factor that contributed to Hart’s decision to leave was a lucrative offer from rival promotion World Championship Wrestling (WCW). WCW offered him a substantial contract that promised creative control over his character and guaranteed money. A New Challenge Hart saw an opportunity to reinvent himself and embrace a new challenge in WCW. After spending over a decade in WWE, he felt that a change of scenery was necessary to keep his career fresh and exciting. Family Considerations Another reason Hart decided to leave WWE was his desire to spend more time with his family. The demanding schedule of a professional wrestler often meant being on the road for extended periods, which took a toll on personal relationships. Hart wanted to prioritize his family and have more control over his schedule. Legacy Preservation Additionally, Hart’s departure from WWE allowed him to preserve his legacy. He didn’t want to risk tarnishing his reputation by staying in an environment where he no longer felt valued or respected. By leaving on his own terms, Hart maintained control over how his career would be remembered. The Aftermath Following Hart’s departure from WWE, he made an immediate impact in WCW. However, his time there was marred by various creative and contractual issues. Despite these challenges, Hart continued to be regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time and managed to carve out a successful career outside of WWE. In conclusion, Bret Hart’s decision to leave WWE was influenced by multiple factors. The Montreal Screwjob served as the catalyst, eroding trust between Hart and WWE management. The enticing offer from WCW provided him with a new challenge and creative control over his character. Family considerations and the desire to preserve his legacy also played significant roles in this monumental departure. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding his exit from WWE, Bret Hart remains an icon in the world of professional wrestling.
