The Hitman is Back: Why Bret Hart is Trending
Professional wrestling legend Bret "The Hitman" Hart has made waves in the world of sports entertainment once again. The five-time WWE Champion is currently trending across social media and news platforms, with over 500+ mentions and searches, primarily due to his highly anticipated return to WWE on Monday Night Raw. This marks the first time Hart has appeared on WWE programming in nearly a decade, sparking a frenzy among wrestling fans and industry insiders alike.
In addition to his return, the fact that this appearance is taking place in Calgary, Alberta, Canada—Bret Hart's hometown—adds a special layer of significance to the event. Fans have long awaited the return of "The Excellence of Execution," and his presence on WWE programming is a powerful reminder of the legacy he built in the 1990s.
Bret Hart: A Wrestling Icon
For those who may not be familiar with Bret Hart, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time. Hart began his career in the 1970s but truly rose to stardom during the late 1980s and 1990s. Known for his technical wrestling ability, Hart earned the nickname "The Hitman" and was a cornerstone of WWE during its "Golden Era" and the "New Generation Era." His storied career saw him win numerous championships, including five WWE World Heavyweight Championships, two Intercontinental Championships, and two Tag Team Championships.
Hart is also remembered for his iconic feuds with top superstars like Shawn Michaels, Steve Austin, and The Undertaker. His rivalry with Shawn Michaels culminated in the infamous "Montreal Screwjob" at Survivor Series 1997, a controversial moment that is still discussed in wrestling circles to this day.
Bret Hart's Return to WWE
Bret Hart made his much-anticipated return to WWE on Monday Night Raw on September 9, 2024, as reported by Cageside Seats. The episode, which aired live from Calgary, featured a special appearance from Hart, much to the delight of the hometown crowd. The live blog from Cageside Seats highlighted the emotional atmosphere in the arena as fans welcomed back their hometown hero.
This return is significant not only because of Hart's long absence from WWE programming but also because it pays homage to his contributions to the wrestling industry. The appearance was a nostalgic moment for older fans who grew up watching Hart perform in the ring and an educational one for younger viewers who may be less familiar with his work.
Further details on Hart's return were shared by Newsweek, which emphasized that this marked his first appearance in WWE after a nine-year hiatus. It's a monumental moment, as Hart has largely kept a low profile in the wrestling world since his last appearance. His return was highly anticipated, and the nine-year gap only served to heighten the excitement surrounding his comeback.
A 90s Wrestling Legend’s Return
The return of Bret Hart also ties into a broader trend of WWE honoring its legendary figures, particularly from the 1990s—a decade that saw some of the company's most successful years. As Daily Mail reported, Hart was one of the most iconic figures of this era. His return on Monday Night Raw has been viewed as a way to bridge the past and present eras of professional wrestling.
Raw’s season premiere in Calgary served as the perfect backdrop for Hart's return, as it allowed the WWE to reconnect with one of its most beloved legends in front of a crowd that holds him in particularly high regard. Daily Mail’s coverage also pointed out that Hart's return has been one of the most talked-about moments in the wrestling community, with speculation about whether this appearance could lead to more involvement with WWE in the future.
The Legacy Lives On
Bret Hart's return isn't just a nostalgia trip—it's a reminder of his lasting legacy in the wrestling industry. Despite personal and professional challenges, including a career-ending injury in 2000 and a stroke in 2002, Hart remains a revered figure in the world of professional wrestling. His influence is still felt today, with many modern wrestlers citing him as an inspiration for their own in-ring work.
While it remains unclear whether Hart's return to WWE will extend beyond this single appearance, one thing is certain: his impact on the industry is undeniable. Whether through his iconic matches, his role in shaping WWE during the 1990s, or his continued influence on future generations of wrestlers, Bret Hart's legacy as "The Hitman" remains firmly intact.
Conclusion
Bret Hart's return to WWE has re-ignited interest in one of wrestling's most storied careers. After nine years away from the spotlight, Hart's appearance on Monday Night Raw in Calgary was a monumental moment for both fans and the industry at large. As wrestling continues to evolve, the return of legends like Bret Hart serves as a reminder of the wrestling world's rich history and the enduring appeal of its most iconic figures.