In a recent interview, WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart shared an unexpected story about the events that led to his return to the world of professional wrestling. According to Hart, a memorable encounter between Vince McMahon and Donald Trump served as a pivotal moment that ultimately influenced his decision to return to the WWE.
A Fateful Encounter at WrestleMania 23
The year was 2007, and the WWE was in the midst of a high-profile feud between Vince McMahon and Donald Trump. The tension between the two billionaires culminated in a “Battle of the Billionaires” match at WrestleMania 23, where Trump’s hair was shaved off as a result of losing the match. However, what many fans may not remember is the physical altercation that took place between Trump and McMahon immediately after the match.
Bret Hart, who was watching the event unfold, was struck by the intensity of the situation. “I was watching that WrestleMania 23, and I saw Vince get into that physical altercation with Donald Trump,” Hart said in an interview. “And I thought to myself, ‘You know what? If Vince can still get into that kind of a physical situation at 60-something years old, then maybe I can still get back into this business.'”
A Newfound Respect for Vince McMahon
Hart’s admiration for Vince McMahon’s tenacity and willingness to take risks in the ring was rekindled by the scene at WrestleMania 23. This newfound respect for his on-screen boss would eventually contribute to Hart’s decision to return to the WWE in 2010.
“I had always had a lot of respect for Vince, but seeing him go toe-to-toe with Donald Trump at 60-something years old… it was just a huge inspiration for me,” Hart explained. “I thought to myself, ‘If Vince can still do it, then I can still do it too.'”
The Road to a WWE Return
Hart’s decision to return to the WWE was not taken lightly. After a brief stint in the company in 2002, Hart had largely stepped away from professional wrestling. However, following his inspiring encounter with Trump and McMahon, he began to feel a renewed sense of purpose.
“I started training again, and I started getting back into shape,” Hart said. “I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I was determined to make it happen.”
According to a WWE insider, Hart’s return to the company was met with excitement from the upper echelons of WWE management. “Bret was a huge get for the company at the time,” the source revealed. “He brought a level of credibility and star power that was unmatched. We were all thrilled to have him back.”
A Second Chance at Glory
Hart’s return to the WWE would ultimately prove to be a resounding success. He went on to win the 2010 King of the Ring tournament and even scored a few high-profile victories in the ring.
“I was happy to be back in the WWE, and I was grateful for the opportunity to prove myself all over again,” Hart said. “It was a second chance at glory, and I was determined to make the most of it.”
In the end, Bret Hart’s return to the WWE was a testament to his enduring passion for professional wrestling. As he looks back on his decision to return, Hart is grateful for the unexpected inspiration that came from a memorable encounter between Vince McMahon and Donald Trump.
“It’s funny how life works out sometimes,” Hart said with a chuckle. “Who would have thought that a physical altercation between Vince McMahon and Donald Trump would be the catalyst for my return to the WWE?”