Bret “The Hitman” Hart, born on July 2, 1957, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is one of the most celebrated professional wrestlers of all time. A second-generation superstar from the legendary Hart wrestling family, Bret carved out an iconic career marked by technical brilliance, compelling storytelling, and unmatched in-ring excellence.
Early Life & Wrestling Roots
Bret was the eighth of twelve children born to Stu Hart, a wrestling promoter and founder of Stampede Wrestling, and Helen Hart. Growing up in the infamous “Hart Dungeon”—his family’s basement wrestling training facility—Bret learned the craft under his father’s tough guidance. Before wrestling, he was an amateur standout, competing in football and wrestling.
Rise to Fame in WWE (1984–1997)
Bret joined the WWF (now WWE) in 1984, initially teaming with his brother-in-law Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart as The Hart Foundation. Managed by Jimmy Hart, they became two-time WWF Tag Team Champions.
In the early ’90s, Bret transitioned into a singles career, earning the nickname “The Excellence of Execution” for his flawless technical wrestling. His legendary matches against Shawn Michaels, Steve Austin, The Undertaker, and British Bulldog solidified his legacy.
- Five-time WWF World Heavyweight Champion
- Two-time WWF Intercontinental Champion
- King of the Ring (1991, 1993)
- 1994 co-winner of the Royal Rumble
His 1997 rivalry with Shawn Michaels culminated in the infamous “Montreal Screwjob”, one of wrestling’s most controversial moments.
WCW & Later Career (1997–2000)
After leaving WWE, Bret joined WCW, where he won the WCW World Heavyweight Championship twice. However, WCW misused his talents, and his career was tragically cut short due to a concussion-induced retirement in 2000 after a kick from Goldberg.
Post-Wrestling & Legacy
Bret made a WWE return in 2010, reconciling with Vince McMahon. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame (2006) and remains a beloved figure.
Beyond wrestling, Bret survived a prostate cancer battle in 2016 and continues to be an advocate for wrestler safety and concussion awareness.
Final Thoughts
Bret Hart’s influence on wrestling is immeasurable. A master storyteller, a fighting champion, and a true legend, “The Best There Is, The Best There Was, and The Best There Ever Will Be” continues to inspire generations.
