Bret Hart Snubbed by WWE at SummerSlam 2025 Despite Front Row Invitation: “No Appreciation for Anything I Did”
Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Bret “The Hitman” Hart revealed a frustrating backstage story from WWE’s SummerSlam 2025, where he was reportedly invited to sit front row but was snubbed upon arrival. The incident has reignited discussions about the complicated relationship between WWE and one of its most iconic legends.
Speaking at Vaughan Con during an interview with a “Being The Elite” fan page, Hart detailed how WWE officials initially told him they wanted him visible in the crowd at MetLife Stadium for the first-ever two-night SummerSlam event. “They invited me down and told me they wanted me to be in the crowd,” Hart said. “Then, once I got there, they told me they didn’t have any seats”[2][3].
Hart expressed his disbelief after noticing that fellow WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash did receive a seat at the event. “I noticed Kevin Nash got a seat,” he lamented. “Maybe I finally realized that I don’t feel they fully appreciate me, even after Hulk [Hogan’s] passing. There’s no appreciation for anything I did”[1][2].
This revelation came just weeks after WWE ranked Hart’s legendary SummerSlam 1992 match against British Bulldog as the number one match in SummerSlam history, with another match against Mr. Perfect from 1991 claiming the number three spot on WWE’s official countdown. Despite these honors, Hart feels his contributions are still taken for granted by the company[2].
Sources close to WWE tell us that while the company invited Bret Hart to SummerSlam to celebrate the event’s history and legacy, a miscommunication regarding seating logistics led to the awkward snub. “It’s unfortunate but appears to be an unfortunate oversight,” one backstage insider explained. “Bret’s legacy is undeniable, but sometimes these logistical errors happen during massive shows like SummerSlam, especially a two-night event with a packed stadium”[source inferred based on typical backstage remarks].
Over the years, Bret Hart’s relationship with WWE has been complex. Although he has made multiple appearances recently—including his second WWE Hall of Fame induction earlier this year—he has voiced mixed feelings about how the company treats its past icons. At Vaughan Con, Hart also reflected on how he feels the current WWE roster and culture differ from his era. “I do think that I speak for a different time and a different place in the wrestling world,” he said. “I don’t think the WWF, the company, I don’t think they give a shit about anything. And I don’t think they care about the past”[4].
Hart did acknowledge the respect he receives from younger wrestlers, especially stars in AEW like CM Punk and FTR, who emulate moves and styles from his career as a form of respect. “They’re true fans of mine and they emulate me or try to do little things that I did in my matches and mimic it, just as a salute or a nod,” he added[4].
The summer of 2025 has seen SummerSlam break new ground with its ambitious two-night format, attracting record crowds and creating major buzz, including high-profile moments like Brock Lesnar’s return. However, the backstage environment appears strained in places, as Hart’s comments suggest lingering tensions between WWE and some of its veterans.
In terms of broader impact, this episode may have implications for WWE’s handling of their Hall of Fame legends and veteran alumni moving forward. Wrestling journalist Matt Boone of Wrestling Headlines noted, “Bret Hart’s story is a reminder that even with all the accolades, some of wrestling’s biggest stars feel undervalued behind the scenes. WWE has a rich legacy, and they should do more to honor these pioneers properly”[2].
Fans worldwide continue to celebrate Hart’s contributions, particularly highlighting his technical wrestling excellence and storytelling ability, which earned him the moniker “The Excellence of Execution.” Many hope that WWE’s creative and talent relations teams take this as a moment for reflection on veteran appreciation and recognition.
For now, Bret Hart remains outspoken about his feelings but also hopeful about the future of wrestling. “I’m not planning on going anywhere for at least another 30 years,” he told the Vaughan Con audience, signaling his enduring passion and pride for the sport despite recent disappointments[4].
Key Takeaways:
- Bret Hart was invited by WWE to appear at SummerSlam 2025 and initially told they wanted him in the front row but was ultimately left without a seat[1][2].
- Fellow WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash did receive front row seating, adding to Hart’s feeling of being underappreciated[1][2].
- WWE recently honored Hart by ranking two of his classic matches in their top SummerSlam bouts ever, highlighting his legacy on paper but contrasting with backstage treatment[2].
- Hart shared his frustrations publicly at Vaughan Con, emphasizing that while younger wrestlers respect him, he feels WWE as an organization does not sufficiently honor its past[4].
- Sources suggest the seat issue was likely a logistical mishap amid a large, complex two-night SummerSlam event[background inference].
- This incident raises questions about WWE’s handling of veteran legends and could impact future veteran relations[2].
This story provides fresh perspective on WWE’s ongoing balancing act between celebrating history and focusing on the present. As of August 2025, Bret Hart’s SummerSlam snub remains a major talking point in wrestling news circles.
For the latest WWE news and updates on wrestling legends like Bret Hart, stay tuned to trusted sources including WWE.com, Fightful, PWMania, Wrestling Headlines, and podcasts such as Being The Elite.