Wrestling1957 · Canada

Bret
Hart

Bret Hart, known as 'The Hitman,' is a legendary figure in professional wrestling, celebrated for his technical prowess and storytelling ability in the ring.

Career overview

With a career spanning over three decades, he has left an indelible mark on the sport, influencing generations of wrestlers and fans alike.

Career honours

1WWE Hall of Fame · Inducted in 2006, 2019, and 2025.

15-time WWF Champion · Held the title during the 1990s.

22-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion · First champion born outside the United State

2Royal Rumble Winner · Won in 1994.

3Two-time King of the Ring · Won in 1991 and the inaugural pay-per-view i

3WrestleMania Headliner · Headlined WrestleMania 9, 10, and 12.9

3WWF Triple Crown Champion · Second to achieve this title.

3WCW Triple Crown Champion · Fifth to achieve this title.

Records

RMost combined days as WWF Champion · 654 days during the 1990s.

RFirst WCW World Heavyweight Champion born outside the United States · Achieved this in 1999.

RMost times inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame · Inducted three times.

Biography

Early Life & Origins

Bret Hart was born into the renowned Hart wrestling family in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He is the eighth child of Stu and Helen Hart and grew up in a household steeped in wrestling tradition. From a young age, Bret was exposed to the sport, helping his father with local wrestling shows and training in the family's basement known as 'The Dungeon.'

Rise to Prominence

Bret Hart made his professional wrestling debut in 1978 after training under his father and others. He quickly gained recognition in Stampede Wrestling before joining the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in the late 1980s. His technical wrestling skills and ability to connect with the audience propelled him to main event status, leading to multiple championship reigns.

Playing Style & Technique

Bret Hart is renowned for his technical wrestling ability, often employing a mix of grappling and submission holds that showcased his amateur wrestling background. His in-ring psychology and storytelling set him apart, allowing him to engage fans deeply. Nicknamed 'The Excellence of Execution,' Hart's style emphasized realism and athleticism, influencing many wrestlers who followed.

Defining Moments & Biggest Achievements

Hart's career is marked by several defining moments, including his victory in the 1994 Royal Rumble and his two-time King of the Ring title. He headlined major events like WrestleMania and Starrcade, solidifying his status as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. His controversial departure from the WWF in 1997, known as the 'Montreal Screwjob,' remains a pivotal moment in wrestling history.

Rivalries & Era Context

During the 'Attitude Era,' Hart was involved in memorable rivalries, particularly with Stone Cold Steve Austin, which captivated audiences and defined a generation of wrestling. Their matches, including the iconic Submission match at WrestleMania 13, showcased the clash of styles and ideologies in wrestling, further elevating Hart's legacy.

Legacy & Impact

Bret Hart's impact on professional wrestling is profound, with many considering him one of the greatest wrestlers in history. His contributions to the sport include elevating the technical wrestling style and inspiring future generations. Hart's induction into the WWE Hall of Fame three times underscores his lasting influence and the respect he commands within the industry.