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Bret Hart discusses his complex bond with Vince McMahon

In a candid interview, Bret Hart shares insights about his relationship with Vince McMahon after years of conflict.

March 27, 2023 at 04:00 PM

How Bret Hart Wrestled Back Into the Story

Bret Hart opens up about his complex relationship with Vince McMahon after years of conflict.

Bret Hart Reflects on His Complicated Bond with Vince McMahon

In a revealing excerpt from the book Ringmaster: Vince McMahon and the Unmaking of America, Bret Hart discusses his fraught relationship with Vince McMahon following the tragic death of his brother, Owen. After years of turmoil post-Montreal Screwjob, Bret initially hesitated to reconnect with Vince during a cold meeting in Calgary. They shared their grief over Owen but continued to clash over Vince’s decisions regarding his brother's death. Vince’s failure to acknowledge the impact of Owen's death during a live show angered Bret. Despite this, as time passed, their dynamic shifted. Bret gradually forgave Vince, re-entering the WWE fold and focusing on securing his legacy instead of being defined by past grievances. He recognized that his return was more than financial; it was a chance to reshape his narrative in wrestling history.

Key Takeaways

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Bret Hart felt Vince McMahon manipulated his career and legacy.

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Their park bench meeting marked a turning point in their relationship.

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Hart's return to WWE was driven by a desire to rewrite his story.

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Legacies in wrestling can be easily overshadowed by controversies.

"I didn’t want to be too friendly because I wasn’t sure at that point that it was an accident"

This line shows Bret's wariness and distrust of Vince following Owen's tragic death.

"I found myself thanking him and telling him how much this simple gesture meant to me"

Bret reflects the complicated emotions of forgiveness and reconciliation.

"I didn’t do all that work and have all those matches to just be forgotten"

This captures Bret's determination to protect his legacy.

"If I’d never crossed paths with him, I wouldn’t be the same man I am today"

Bret acknowledges the deep impact Vince has had on his life, despite their conflicts.

Bret Hart's reflections highlight the complexities of personal and professional relationships in wrestling. His story reveals how wrestling legends navigate loyalty and betrayal within a highly publicized industry. Despite the pain and bitterness that marked his early years after Owen’s death, Hart's journey toward reconciliation with McMahon illustrates the nuances of forgiveness. Their relationship serves as a testament to the pressure wrestlers face, both from external perceptions and internal struggles, in the pursuit of legacy. The wrestling world is not just about physical battles but also emotional ones, often complicated by public personas and private pain.