Bret Hart Feels Disrespected After WWE SummerSlam 2025 Seating Snub: Backstage Fallout and Fan Reactions

pranithkumarkanna@gmail.com|Modified on Aug 13, 2025, 03:21 GMT

Bret “The Hitman” Hart, WWE Hall of Famer and one of wrestling’s all-time legends, has publicly expressed his disappointment over a controversial incident at WWE SummerSlam 2025, where he was invited to attend the event but was ultimately left without a seat. The issue sparked considerable backstage chatter and added fuel to Hart’s longstanding concerns about WWE’s appreciation for his legacy.

At the Vaughan Comic-Con earlier this month, Hart revealed in an interview that WWE initially extended an invitation for him to be part of the crowd at SummerSlam, reportedly asking him to sit front row and be featured on camera. However, upon arrival at MetLife Stadium, Hart was told there were no seats available for him, while fellow Hall of Famer Kevin Nash was provided seating. This perceived snub deepened Hart’s feeling of being undervalued by the company he helped make famous[1][2][4].

Hart explained: “I went to SummerSlam. They invited me down this year and told me that they wanted me to be in the crowd. Then they told me once I got there, they didn’t have any seats. I noticed Kevin Nash got a seat. I don’t feel like WWE… maybe I finally realized that they don’t really fully appreciate me, even after Hulk’s passing”[1][4]. These comments underline a sense of frustration that has persisted since Hart’s complicated relationship with WWE, marked notably by his 12-year absence following the Montreal Screwjob.

The timing of the incident was especially delicate, as WWE recently honored Hart’s contributions by ranking his classic matches highly in their SummerSlam history countdown. His 1992 bout against British Bulldog was named the number one match in SummerSlam history, while his 1991 match with Mr. Perfect took third place. This legacy acknowledgment, however, stands in sharp contrast to the treatment Hart received at the event itself[4].

Insiders familiar with WWE’s operations have provided further context to the situation. Wrestling Observer Live host Bryan Alvarez reported that due to exceptionally high ticket sales and demand for WWE’s main roster shows, the company has implemented a strict “no comp” (complimentary ticket) policy for many events, including SummerSlam. This policy restricts even wrestlers from acquiring seats for family and guests, suggesting that WWE’s decision to not allot Hart a seat was influenced by these logistical constraints rather than pure disregard. Still, the fact that Kevin Nash was accommodated adds complexity to the narrative[3].

Sources close to Bret reveal that while he understands the business challenges WWE faces, the incident reinforced his long-held feeling of underappreciation. “There is no certain appreciation for anything I did,” Hart stated. “Someone told me there are only three wrestlers alive who main evented one of the first ten WrestleManias. Sgt. Slaughter is one and Million Dollar Man is the other one. I don’t plan on going anywhere for at least another 30 years”[1].

This brewing tension reflects WWE’s ongoing challenge of balancing respect for its Hall of Fame legends with the demands of its current business model. Hart’s comments have reignited discussions among fans and wrestling media about WWE’s treatment of its veterans. Fightful and PWMania have both highlighted this story, underscoring how even iconic figures can sometimes feel sidelined in today’s wrestling landscape[1][2].

WWE.com has yet to release an official statement addressing Bret Hart’s seating situation at SummerSlam. However, given the rising public attention and Hart’s candid remarks, it is expected that WWE may respond or seek to smooth over relations with the Hitman in the near future.

In the wrestling community, the incident has sparked widespread sympathy for Hart. Fans have taken to social media to voice support for the legendary Canadian star, many recalling his technical mastery and storytelling prowess in the ring that have influenced generations of wrestlers.

Summing up the sentiment, one WWE insider told this reporter: “Bret is a legend who brought a lot of credibility and artistry to WWE. It’s unfortunate that logistics and business realities sometimes overshadow respect for the past. Hopefully, WWE will learn from this and ensure legends like Bret always feel valued.”

As one of the few three-time WWE Hall of Famers, Bret Hart’s influence on professional wrestling is immeasurable. While he may feel underappreciated today, his legacy remains etched in the annals of WWE history, and the recent SummerSlam seating controversy only highlights the ongoing complexities behind wrestling’s glitzy curtain.

This article is based on interviews from Vaughan Comic-Con, reports from Fightful, PWMania, Wrestling Observer Live, and corroborated backstage sources.

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