For almost a decade Bret 'The Hitman' Hart was one of the biggest names in the wrestling industry, due not only to his incredible ability and family notoriety, but also because of the infamous 'Montreal Screwjob', which led many fans to doubt he would ever make a comeback with the WWE.
Why Did Bret Hart Leave the WWE?
Bret Hart had been a big name in the WWE since joining forces with his brother Jim 'The Anvil' Neidhart and manager Jimmy Hart to create The Hart Foundation.
After claiming the tag titles twice Bret moved into the singles division where he became a two-time Intercontinental and five-time World Heavyweight Champion.
Despite being one of the biggest names in his promotion, WWE Owner Vince McMahon supposedly encouraged Hart to speak with rivals WCW and ultimately join them, as he had financial issues which ending Hart's 15-plus year contract would help alleviate.
Hart's final match in the WWE was against real-life rival Shawn Michaels in his home country of Canada.
Because of the location Hart requested that he be able to retain his title, then relinquish it and leave for WCW, which McMahon initially agreed to.
However, as the match came around McMahon had a change of heart.
Along with official Earl Hebner and Shawn Michaels, McMahon orchestrated what became known as The Montreal Screwjob, humiliating Hart and effectively stripping him of the World Heavyweight Championship in his home country.
Understandably annoyed, Hart spat at McMahon and allegedly punched him off-camera, vowing never to do business with the WWE again.
Why is Bret Hart Coming Back to the WWE?
While wrestling fans these days may be more familiar with the likes of John Cena, Rey Mysterio and Randy Orton, two names that will always resonate with followers of the squared circle are Hulk Hogan and Bret 'The Hitman' Hart.
When rival brand TNA (Total Nonstop Action) announced that not only would they be going head to head with the WWE's flagship show; Raw, but that they also had Hulk Hogan on board, Vince McMahon had to respond in a big way.
And respond he did, with an announcement that Bret Hart would guest host Raw, appearing on a WWE broadcast for the first time in 12 years!
Bret Hart's Future with WWE
Vince McMahon is renowned for his shrewd business sense, and no doubt realised that while a one-off appearance might draw in an initial crowd, something more long term might be required to gain a stranglehold over TNA in the new Monday Night Wars.
Rumour has it that Hart has signed a contract taking him just beyond WrestleMania XXVI in April, with many fans predicting a McMahon/Hart match at the years biggest event, perhaps even involving Shawn Michaels.
Regardless of the eventual outcome, the rising challenge from TNA can only be a positive boost for the wrestling industry as a whole, illustrated perfectly by the unexpected but most welcome return of the Excellence of Execution.
To find out what happens when Bret Hart returns to the WWE LIVE Click Here!
Jay Davies - Jay Davies is a 25 year old graduate of the University of Lincoln's School of Journalism, currently residing in South Yorkshire, ...
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