As a wrestling fan since the early 90s, I vividly remember the night the wrestling world was forever changed. It wasn’t the title change, or the new champion, it was the betrayal. The Montreal Screwjob. The night Bret Hart, the “Hitman,” was double-crossed by his own company and forced to relinquish his WWE Championship to Shawn Michaels, the “Heartbreak Kid,” in his home country. This event, shrouded in controversy, wasn’t just a wrestling match, it was a defining moment that fractured the wrestling world, a moment that continues to be debated and analyzed even today.
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The Montreal Screwjob is more than just a wrestling match; it’s a moment in wrestling history that encapsulates betrayal, power struggles, and the ruthless side of the industry. This event, orchestrated by WWE chairman Vince McMahon, involved a complex web of personal grievances, contractual disputes, and the pursuit of profit. It was a decision that shocked the world, leaving fans questioning the sanctity of wrestling and the ethics of the industry.
The Backdrop to the Infamous Night
To understand the magnitude of the Montreal Screwjob, we need to delve into the events leading up to that fateful night. Bret Hart, the WWF Champion, was nearing the end of his contract. With his sights set on WCW, and no agreement in sight with WWE, the company saw the risk of losing a top star. The situation was further complicated by a history of animosity between Bret and Shawn Michaels. Their rivalry had intensified, culminating in the infamous “Survivor Series” match in 1997.
Adding fuel to the fire, backstage tensions were running high. McMahon, determined to maximize profits, was eager to have Michaels as the champion. Hart, however, was adamant that he would not drop the title to Michaels in his hometown of Montreal. He felt it would be disrespectful to the Canadian fans who had supported him throughout his career.
Behind the scenes, McMahon had been crafting a plan to ensure Michaels became the champion. He secretly conspired with Michaels, referee Earl Hebner, and others to orchestrate the infamous “screwjob.”
The Night of Betrayal: Survivor Series 1997
The stage was set, the audience buzzing with anticipation. In the main event of Survivor Series, Bret Hart faced Shawn Michaels. As the match progressed, Hart was instructed by McMahon that he should put Michaels in his signature Sharpshooter submission hold. The plan was that Michaels, being unable to tap out, would be disqualified, thus keeping the title with Hart.
Then, the unthinkable happened. Midway through the match, Hebner, under McMahon’s directive, rang the bell, signaling a pinfall, despite no one actually pinning Hart. This decision, completely out of the blue, left Hart stunned and the audience in disbelief. McMahon had broken his word and betrayed Hart in his own backyard.
With the championship belt in Michaels’ hand and the crowd reacting in a state of shock, Bret Hart was escorted out of the arena, his heart broken and his career in WWE effectively over.
Aftermath and Legacy: The Montreal Screwjob’s Impact
The Montreal Screwjob is seen as a defining moment in wrestling history, marking a shift in attitude and professionalism within the industry. After the event, Hart, though betrayed, became a legend in Canada, his story inspiring countless wrestlers who followed in his footsteps.
The event triggered a wave of controversy and debate. Fans, wrestlers, and journalists alike questioned the ethics of McMahon’s actions, and the wrestling industry was seen as a less reliable and more ruthless place.
In the long run, the Montreal Screwjob had a lasting impact on the landscape of professional wrestling. It exposed the power struggles, the behind-the-scenes machinations, and the often-cutthroat nature of the business.
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The Montreal Screwjob: An Unforgettable Night
The Montreal Screwjob is an impactful event in wrestling history, a testament to the tumultuous nature of the industry. It serves as a reminder that in the world of professional wrestling, even the greatest of legends can be betrayed, and the unpredictable nature of the sport can leave fans and wrestlers alike in a state of shock.
Tips for Wrestling Fans: Making the Most of Your Fandom
As a lifelong wrestling fan, I’ve learned a few things about the sport over the years. Here are some tips that may enhance your enjoyment of the industry:
- Read wrestling news and commentary: Stay up-to-date on current events and backstage stories.
- Explore different eras of wrestling: Dive into the history of the sport and get to know the legendary performers of the past.
- Engage with the community: Join online forums or social media groups to discuss wrestling with other fans.
- Support independent wrestling: Discover the thriving world of independent wrestling and see the next generation of stars on the rise.
Staying informed about the wrestling industry and engaging with the community can make your fandom more rewarding. You can gain a deeper appreciation for the sport, discover new wrestlers, and participate in meaningful discussions about current events and the history of the industry.
FAQ About the Montreal Screwjob:
What exactly was the Montreal Screwjob?
The Montreal Screwjob was a planned betrayal of Bret Hart by WWE chairman Vince McMahon during the Survivor Series 1997 match in Montreal, Canada. Hart was forced to lose his WWF Championship to Shawn Michaels in his home country, despite his refusal to do so.
Why was the Montreal Screwjob controversial?
The Montreal Screwjob was controversial because it was a blatant disregard for the professional respect between wrestlers and management. It demonstrated the ruthlessness of the business and the potential for betrayal within the industry.
Why did McMahon do it?
McMahon orchestrated the Montreal Screwjob primarily to boost business and ensure that Shawn Michaels became the champion, but the event also reflected personal animosity between McMahon and Hart.
What happened to Bret Hart after the Montreal Screwjob?
After the Montreal Screwjob, Bret Hart left WWE and started his career with WCW. He later returned to WWE, but the relationship remained strained for years.
What impact did the Montreal Screwjob have on wrestling?
The Montreal Screwjob shook the industry, exposing the behind-the-scenes machinations and the potential for betrayal. It questioned the sanctity of wrestling and led to a more cynical view of the business.
Survivor Series 1997 Bret Hart Vs Shawn Michaels
Conclusion: A Defining Moment in Wrestling
The Montreal Screwjob is a key event in wrestling history, a moment that changed the landscape of the industry. It’s a story of betrayal, power struggles, and the ruthless desire for profit. The events of that night continue to generate discussion and analysis even today.
Are you interested in learning more about this controversial event in wrestling history? Do you have any other questions you’d like answered? Let me know in the comments below.
