WWE Hall of Famer Bret “The Hitman” Hart has publicly revealed his frustration after a baffling snub at SummerSlam 2025 where, despite an invitation, he was left without a seat. Meanwhile, reports have surfaced about Cody Rhodes potentially transitioning to a part-time WWE schedule, and a surprising backstage incident involving Karrion Kross’s WWE signing being confiscated during RAW, sparking intense backstage speculation.

Bret Hart’s SummerSlam Seat Snub Sparks Backstage Controversy

One of the most shocking backstage stories from SummerSlam 2025 emerged this week as Bret Hart detailed an incident that has left him feeling severely underappreciated by WWE. According to Hart’s interview at Vaughan Con, WWE had invited him to appear as part of the live crowd during SummerSlam with promises of on-camera appearances. However, upon arrival, Hart was told there were no available seats for him in the venue.

“I went to SummerSlam. They invited me down this year for WWE and told me they wanted me to be in the crowd,” Hart said. “Then they told me once I got there that they didn’t have any seats.” He also pointed out that fellow WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash was provided a seat, which deepened his disappointment[1][2].

WWE’s reluctance to allocate a seat for a wrestler of Hart’s stature has ignited discussions backstage about WWE’s respect — or apparent lack thereof — for its legends. Hart remarked, “I finally realized that they don’t fully appreciate me. Even after Hulk Hogan’s passing, there’s no appreciation for anything I did.” His sentiment resonates deeply given his historic contributions, including being the first-ever three-time WWE Hall of Famer and a pivotal figure in shaping wrestling history[1][3].

On Wrestling Observer Live, insider Bryan Alvarez shed light on a new WWE policy enforcing a strict “no comp” ticket rule, implemented as a result of strong ticket sales. This policy limits complimentary tickets even for main roster talent and their guests, exacerbating seating issues at marquee events like SummerSlam. Alvarez noted that Bret Hart was not isolated in this experience—Noelle Foley, daughter of WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley, faced a similar seating shuffle at the event[3].

While WWE never publicly addressed the situation, insiders criticize the company for inviting legends without having confirmed accommodations. As Alvarez put it, “Don’t tell someone to come if you haven’t specifically reserved an actual seat for them, especially someone like Bret Hart.” Whether the incident reflects strategic oversight or deeper backstage politics remains debated in wrestling circles[3][5].

Cody Rhodes Considering Part-Time WWE Schedule

In other backstage developments, multiple sources close to WWE have reported discussions around Cody Rhodes exploring a move to a part-time role within the company. Cody, who has been one of WWE’s most prominent stars and a multi-time world champion, may be seeking a reduced in-ring schedule as he balances other creative and business ventures[1].

A credible WWE insider shared, “Cody is focusing on his creative projects and wants to preserve his in-ring longevity. WWE is supportive of him going part-time as long as it aligns with storylines and special appearances.” This mirrors a growing trend among top stars seeking flexible arrangements to extend their careers and explore opportunities beyond wrestling.

Though details remain preliminary, this development could impact WWE’s creative direction in upcoming months, especially regarding Cody’s ongoing feuds and potential WrestleMania 42 participation[1].

Karrion Kross Signing Controversy at RAW

Adding to the week’s shocking backstage stories, reports from RAW indicate that Karrion Kross’ WWE contract signing was infamously confiscated during the live event. Sources explain that the normally ceremonial contract signing segment was abruptly interrupted when the physical contract was seized by WWE officials amid rumored disputes over terms.

A WWE insider elaborated, “There were last-minute concerns regarding the contract details, which prompted officials to hold onto the paperwork until questions were resolved. This caught Kross and his team by surprise, leading to a tense moment backstage and a very unusual RAW segment.”

The contract issue has sparked rumors of renegotiations or creative disagreements involving Kross’ role in WWE programming. While the exact cause remains undisclosed, this incident underscores the unpredictable nature of WWE’s backstage environment and how contract logistics can ripple onto live TV[1][2].

What This Means for WWE’s Future Direction

The convergence of these backstage stories—Hart’s disrespect at SummerSlam, Cody Rhodes’ prospective schedule shift, and Karrion Kross’ contract mystery—highlight ongoing tensions in WWE’s handling of talent relations and live event logistics. Wrestling analysts suggest that WWE’s emphasis on booming ticket sales and evolving creative demands can sometimes sideline the personal needs and contributions of its performers, past and present.

WWE.com has yet to publicly comment on Bret Hart’s SummerSlam seat incident or Cody Rhodes’ rumored part-time plans, keeping fans and insiders eager for official clarifications. However, these narratives continue to fuel debate among wrestling fans and industry insiders about WWE’s respect for veteran superstars and talent management strategies in 2025.

Stay tuned for updates on these stories as WWE prepares for its upcoming pay-per-views and continues navigating its dynamic roster changes.