The Tangled Web of the Montreal Screwjob: Was Bret Hart Complicit?

The Montreal Screwjob, a defining moment in professional wrestling, is a complex event that occurred during the Survivor Series on November 22, 1997. This incident, where Bret Hart was betrayed by Vince McMahon, left a lasting impact on the wrestling industry and continues to be a subject of debate among fans and critics.

Contract Negotiations and Ambitions

At the heart of the Montreal Screwjob was Bret Hart's desire to negotiate a new contract with WWE (then known as WWF). During this time, Hart was also receiving offers from other organizations, including WCW. His commitment to defend his WWF Championship against Shawn Michaels' "Sweet Chin Music" finish created significant tension, especially when Hart insisted on a proper match for his title brand.

Trust, Betrayal, and Personal Relationships

Throughout his career, Bret Hart had a long and trusting relationship with Vince McMahon. However, this trust crumbled as the situation escalated. McMahon became increasingly concerned that Hart might leave the company and take the title to WCW. This junction led to a breakdown in trust, with Hart's insistence on a proper finish being seen as a sticking point.

The Promised Plan and the Screwjob

Hart had proposed several scenarios for dropping the title, including doing so in a future show. However, McMahon, fearing that Hart might not honor these plans, decided to take matters into his own hands during the match, leading to the infamous screwjob. This decision was a direct violation of the trust and mutual agreements between the two.

Hart's Reputation and Integrity

Some argue that Hart's strong-willed nature and his insistence on maintaining his character's integrity contributed to the fallout. Hart's perception of how a champion should behave clashed with the direction McMahon wanted to take the company. This contradiction in values between Hart and McMahon was a significant factor in the incident.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The incident had profound repercussions for both Bret Hart and Vince McMahon. Hart's career in WWE effectively ended on a sour note, while McMahon's decision led to significant changes in the wrestling industry. Both the storytelling methods and character development were redefined, illustrating the complex business relationships within the industry.

In summary, whether Bret Hart brought the Montreal Screwjob upon himself is subjective. While his actions and decisions contributed to the situation, the lack of communication and trust between him and McMahon played a significant role in the incident. The Montreal Screwjob remains a pivotal moment in wrestling history, highlighting the complexities of business relationships in the industry.