In a recent interview with Inside the Ropes, wrestling legend Bret Hart shared his candid thoughts on his WCW World Title win in 1999, stating that it held little to no significance for him. The Olympic Gold Medalist and multiple-time champion reflected on his time in World Championship Wrestling, revealing the reasons behind his feelings about this particular achievement.
A New Era: The Creation of WCW’s New World Order
As we know, the late 1990s were a time of great change in the world of professional wrestling. The Monday Night Wars between the WWF (now WWE) and WCW were in full swing, with Vince K. McMahon’s promotion dominating the ratings for years. In response, WCW’s Eric Bischoff brought in the New World Order (nWo), a revolutionary concept that would shake the very foundations of the industry.
Bret Hart, a key figure in the WWF at the time, made the bold decision to join WCW in 1997, marking a turning point in his career. His arrival created a spark, and he quickly found himself at the forefront of the WCW’s new era.
The WCW World Title Reign: A Title That Held Little Significance
When asked about becoming the WCW World Champion in 1999, Bret Hart’s words were nothing short of shocking. “It meant absolutely nothing to me,” he candidly admitted. “I was at a point in my career where I was just trying to keep my body together, to be honest. The title didn’t mean anything to me then. I was more concerned about getting out of there in one piece.”
This statement speaks volumes about the state of the WCW at the time and how far the company had fallen from its former glory. As one of the biggest names in wrestling, Bret Hart’s presence in the ring should have commanded attention and respect. However, his words reveal a more complex situation, one where the pursuit of personal goals and well-being took precedence over the pursuit of championships.
Reflections on the Late 1990s Monday Night Wars
In the same interview, Bret Hart shared his thoughts on the infamous Monday Night Wars between WCW and the WWF. When asked about the intense competition between the two promotions, he stated, “It was like a war, and we were all just cannon fodder. We were all just trying to make a living, and the two companies were fighting it out.”
These words paint a vivid picture of the intense atmosphere that permeated the late 1990s wrestling landscape. The constant push for ratings and viewership took a toll on the wrestlers, with many struggling to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Bret Hart’s candid reflections serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women of that era.
A New Era in the WWE: The Rise of the Modern Day Superstars
Fast forward to the present day, and the WWE has undergone significant changes. The Monday Night Wars are nothing but a distant memory, and the landscape of professional wrestling has shifted dramatically. The rise of new stars like Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, and Seth Rollins has brought a fresh wave of excitement to the WWE.
Cody Rhodes, in particular, has been making waves with his innovative performances and unapologetic attitude. Sources close to the All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star have revealed that his own experiences with the Monday Night Wars have inspired him to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the ring.
“Watching the likes of Bret Hart and Ric Flair compete in the late 1990s was a game-changer for me,” Cody Rhodes revealed in a recent interview. “It showed me that there was no ceiling, that anything was possible. I’m carrying that torch forward, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.”
Conclusion
Bret Hart’s candid words about his WCW World Title win serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women of the late 1990s wrestling era. As the WWE continues to evolve and grow, it’s essential to remember the pioneers who paved the way for the modern-day superstars.
In the words of Bret Hart, “It’s not about the titles or the championships; it’s about the journey, the people you meet, and the experiences you have along the way.” As the wrestling world continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, Bret Hart’s legacy serves as a shining example of the power of hard work, dedication, and a never-say-die attitude.