Bret Hart Speaks Out: The Two WWE Hall of Famers He Holds Responsible for WCW’s Demise
In the world of professional wrestling, few names bring as an awful lot weight as Bret Hart. A legendary determine recognised for his technical prowess and in-ring storytelling, Hart has continually been outspoken, especially on the subject of his critiques at the business that made him a celebrity. Recently, in a candid discussion at the Attitude Era Podcast, Hart didn’t mince words as he pointed hands at the two individuals he believes are liable for the downfall of World Championship Wrestling (WCW). According to “The Hitman,” the death of WCW may be laid at the feet of of the industry’s largest names: Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff.
The Hitman’s Fall in WCW: A Career Stunted by Politics
Bret Hart’s transition to WCW changed into speculated to be a new chapter in his illustrious profession. After his shocking exit from WWE following the notorious Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series 1997, Hart become poised to make a giant effect in WCW, a employer that changed into, at the time, in a fierce rankings warfare with WWE. Hart, a five-time WWE Champion, changed into considered one of the largest stars in wrestling, and his arrival in WCW was especially expected. However, matters didn’t pass as deliberate.
Despite his fame, Hart struggled to locate his footing in WCW. Unlike his time in WWE, where he changed into a focus of the promotion, in WCW, Hart became frequently sidelined or misused. The creative course of WCW appeared erratic, and Hart located himself in the midst of a agency that changed into dropping its manner.
Bret Hart Points the Finger: Hogan and Bischoff to Blame
During the podcast, Hart vividly recalled a specific incident that, in his view, encapsulates the disorder that plagued WCW. He defined a moment within the ring with Goldberg, in which he took a spear while wearing a steel plate—a memorable angle that Hart believes was nearly derailed by none other than Hulk Hogan.
“The truth is that in the end, I remember that day when [Hogan] was trying to change it or cancel it or ruin the whole idea,” Hart said. His frustration was palpable as he recounted how Hogan attempted to exert his influence to alter the segment. But Hogan wasn’t the only one Hart had an issue with. He also directed his ire at Eric Bischoff, the man who was ostensibly running WCW.
“Eric Bischoff … he doesn’t really know what the hell he’s doing. He never ever did,” Hart remarked bluntly. The Hitman was critical of Bischoff’s leadership, suggesting that he was more of a puppet than an actual leader. According to Hart, Bischoff lacked the decisiveness and vision necessary to steer the company to success. Instead, he alleges that Bischoff was beholden to Hogan, allowing the wrestling icon to call the shots behind the scenes.
Hart’s most damning statement, however, was his assertion that between Hogan and Bischoff, they “killed WCW.” He didn’t hesitate to assign blame, stating unequivocally, “You can put it right on Hogan or Eric Bischoff. They’re both accountable.”
A Legacy Tarnished: The Fallout from WCW’s Collapse
WCW, once a formidable competitor to WWE, eventually crumbled, and in 2001, it was bought out by Vince McMahon’s company. The reasons behind WCW’s collapse have been debated for years, with many pointing to poor management, creative missteps, and backstage politics as key factors. Bret Hart’s comments add another layer to the narrative, highlighting the power struggles and egos that, in his view, led to the company’s demise.
Hart’s career in WCW never reached the heights it did in WWE, and the company’s downfall marked a disappointing chapter for him personally. Yet, even in the face of these setbacks, Hart remains a respected voice in the wrestling world, known for his candidness and willingness to speak his mind.
