WWE Hall of Famer Bret “The Hitman” Hart recently opened up about two of his most physically punishing matches that he believes cost him years off his life, citing the long-term effects on his health while still expressing pride in one encounter. Hart’s candid reflections underscore the immense physical sacrifices made by wrestling legends and offer insight into some of the fiercest battles in his storied career.
According to an interview featured on WWE.com and reported by Wrestling Inc., Bret Hart named his match against Shawn Michaels at Survivor Series 1997 and a bout at Wembley Stadium as matches that severely impacted his well-being[1]. The Survivor Series match, infamous for its brutality and emotional intensity, was also Hart’s final WWE match before his acrimonious departure to WCW. Hart elaborated that despite the toll it took on him, he remains proud of how he performed, especially against Michaels, who was one of his greatest rivals and friends.
In the same discussion, Hart pointed to the electric atmosphere and sheer physical intensity of his Wembley show match, which tested his endurance and willpower under the scrutiny of a massive live crowd[1]. This event is remembered as iconic among hardcore fans for its blend of technical wrestling and dramatic storytelling.
Bret Hart is renowned for his technical prowess and resilience, having held 17 championship titles across WWE and WCW from the 1970s through the 2010s[3]. However, his legendary battles always came at a personal cost. Speaking on various podcasts and interviews over the years, Hart has highlighted how his dedication to perfecting his craft often resulted in injuries and wear that lingered long after the bell rang.
Notably, the Survivor Series 1997 match is etched in WWE history not just for the in-ring action but also the backstage drama surrounding it. Reports from Fightful and other wrestling news outlets indicate that Vince McMahon’s desire to end Hart’s long-term contract culminated in this intense match against Michaels, who delivered a strenuous performance that pushed both wrestlers to their limits[1]. The match also intensified the real-life tension between the two, which Hart has addressed with openness.
Sources close to Hart have revealed that these matches contributed to chronic health issues, reflective of the harsh physical demands wrestling superstars endure. While Hart has since embraced a more cautious lifestyle, he continues to celebrate his career-defining moments, acknowledging both their glory and the price he paid.
Bret’s story is a powerful reminder of the often unseen sacrifices behind wrestling legend status. His matches against Shawn Michaels and the Wembley bout remain some of the most studied and revered in wrestling history, exemplifying dedication beyond measure. Fans and wrestlers alike continue to regard Hart as “The Excellence of Execution” for his skill, heart, and the indelible impact he left on WWE.
Backstage sources confirm that WWE recognizes Hart’s candidness as valuable for shedding light on wrestler health and safety, a focus area within WWE in recent years. Hart’s reflections contribute to the broader conversation about the risks of professional wrestling and the legacy of its heroes.
For those wanting to revisit these historic matches, WWE Vault recently released a four-hour Bret Hart mixtape featuring full-length matches, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage that captures the essence of his career highs and challenges[5].
In summary, Bret Hart’s revelation about the matches that “took years off his life” offers a rare and sober perspective on the physical cost of wrestling greatness. His ability to balance pride in his craft with the acknowledgment of sacrifice embodies the complex legacy of one of WWE’s all-time greats.
Sources:
WWE.com, Wrestling Inc., Fightful, WWE Vault, Wikipedia, TheSportster.com