Harry Cummins
Updated on: October 15, 2024 7:55 am GMT
In the world of professional wrestling, few moments are as infamous as the 1997 Survivor Series, where history was rewritten and trust shattered. The clash between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels for the WWE Championship ended not just in a controversial match but also in a confrontation that has been scrutinized for years. As revelations continue to surface, Bret Hart recently shared insights into the incident that has captivated wrestling fans and historians alike.
The Montreal Screwjob Explained
The term “Montreal Screwjob” has become synonymous with betrayal in the wrestling community. On that fateful night in November 1997, Bret Hart was set to face Shawn Michaels, marrying two powerful personalities draped in wrestling history. With Hart’s contract expiring that night and his impending move to WCW, Vince McMahon took drastic measures. He orchestrated a finish to the match that would ensure Hart lost the title without his consent.
- Match Overview: Bret Hart faced Shawn Michaels.
- Key Event: Referee Earl Hebner called for the bell while Hart was in his submission hold, The Sharpshooter.
- Outcome: Michaels was declared the winner, despite Hart not submitting.
Fans were left stunned. Hart, furious over the unexpected turn, did not take his defeat lightly. He famously spat on Vince McMahon and tore apart ringside equipment, expressing his outrage to the audience.
Bret Hart’s Backstage Confrontation
Things escalated backstage when Hart confronted McMahon. In the heat of the moment, Hart punched McMahon, reportedly knocking him out cold. According to Hart, the portrayal that McMahon offered him a free shot was misleading. He clarified this during an interview for the Netflix docuseries Mr. McMahon:
“There was no like, ‘Vince is going to give me a shot.’ Like, I don’t [know] where they get that story. It was Vince and me came at each other, and we actually tied up like a wrestling match… I came right up between Vince’s arms, and … He was out cold, like a starfish. It was probably the best thing I ever did. He deserved every bit of that.”
This moment has since become a significant chapter in wrestling lore, showcasing the dramatic and often volatile nature of the industry.
Triple H Takes Responsibility
Adding another layer to this tumultuous event, Paul Levesque, better known as Triple H, has publicly accepted responsibility for the Montreal Screwjob. His remark in the Mr. McMahon docuseries reveals the pressure and intrigue surrounding the infamous night. As he aligned himself with Michaels and the D-Generation X group at the time, he played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative that unfolded.
- Quote by Triple H: “There was a phone call that happened…” confirming his suggestion that led to Hart’s unsanctioned title loss.
The subsequent fallout created a rift in the wrestling community, one which echoed in locker rooms and among fans alike. The screwjob ignited debates about trust, business ethics, and the fine line between scripted entertainment and real-life consequences within wrestling.
Aftermath of the Screwjob
The ramifications of the Montreal Screwjob were substantial and long-lasting.
- Trust Issues: Hart’s betrayal marked a loss of trust between talent and management.
- Career Trajectories: Bret Hart continued his career in WCW, while Shawn Michaels eventually rose to become one of WWE’s biggest stars.
- Reputation of Vince McMahon: McMahon’s heavy-handed approach earned him both critics and defenders, embedding him firmly as a controversial figure in wrestling history.
As time has passed, many have reflected on the incident, contributing to an ongoing conversation about the ethical responsibilities of wrestling officials and performers.
The Legacy of the Montreal Screwjob
The legacy of the Montreal Screwjob continues to resonate within wrestling circles. It serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of the sport, revealing how quickly relationships can sour amidst the pressures of competition and personal ambition.
Wrestling fans and historians frequently dissect the events of that night. As new interviews and content like the Mr. McMahon docuseries emerge, audiences gain deeper insight into the complexities of wrestling politics. The screwjob, while controversial, highlights the intricate dynamics of trust, business, and personal relationships in the wrestling industry.
the Montreal Screwjob remains a significant historical touchstone for the wrestling world, illustrating not just a pivotal moment in time but also the evolving nature of storytelling—both inside and outside the ring. As wrestling fans continue to enjoy the sport, they also remember the lessons learned from one of its most dramatic and contentious chapters.
To really understand this famous story and how it changed wrestling, check out this detailed breakdown.
