In the world of professional wrestling, few names evoke as much respect and reverence as Bret “The Hitman” Hart. A WWE Hall of Famer, Hart is regarded by many as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. However, in recent years, he has also developed a reputation for being rather grumpy, especially when discussing certain topics and individuals within the industry.
Hart’s disdain for Bill Goldberg is legendary, fueled by an incident that many believe ended Hart’s in-ring career. His scorn for former WCW executive Eric Bischoff is well-documented, with Hart often stating that Bischoff had no idea how to run a wrestling show. Additionally, Hart’s views on World Championship Wrestling (WCW), as expressed in the “Who Killed WCW?” docuseries, paint the company as one of the worst he has ever worked for.
Mercedes Moné Weighs In
During a recent interview on Z100’s “Superstar Crossover” radio show, AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Moné was asked who she thought was more bitter: Bret Hart or former WWE Superstar Ronda Rousey. Moné’s response was immediate and unequivocal.
“I think Ronda,” Moné said without hesitation.
Moné’s assertion adds a new layer to the ongoing discourse about bitterness in wrestling. Rousey, a former UFC champion who transitioned to WWE with much fanfare, has been vocal about her dissatisfaction with her time in the company. In her recent book, Rousey detailed numerous grievances, including how WWE management would purposely hold back certain women and how Vince McMahon’s on-screen character as an evil boss reflected his real-life persona. She also expressed intense animosity towards Bruce Pritchard, comparing her feelings to the notorious animosity between Hart and Goldberg.
The Rousey-Moné Dynamic
Rousey and Moné, formerly known as Sasha Banks in WWE, have crossed paths numerous times, both as allies and adversaries. Their most notable encounter came at the 2019 Royal Rumble event, where Rousey defeated Moné in a match that many regard as one of Rousey’s best performances in WWE. While their in-ring chemistry was undeniable, behind the scenes, tensions were brewing.
Moné has often voiced her frustrations about the disparity in pay between herself and Rousey, particularly when Rousey first arrived in WWE in 2018. Despite Moné’s established status within the company, Rousey’s crossover appeal and UFC background meant she commanded a significantly higher salary, a fact that did not sit well with many in the locker room, including Moné.
The Bitter Pill
Moné’s comments about Rousey being more bitter than Hart are particularly striking given the context of their respective grievances. Hart’s bitterness stems largely from professional betrayals and career-ending injuries. In contrast, Rousey’s bitterness appears to be more rooted in her perceived mistreatment and frustrations with WWE’s backstage politics.
Rousey’s candidness in her book paints a picture of a toxic work environment where favoritism and manipulation were rampant. Her experiences, as recounted by Moné, suggest a deeper level of disillusionment than Hart’s often-publicized rants. For Moné to single out Rousey as more bitter than Hart speaks volumes about the depth of Rousey’s dissatisfaction.
The world of professional wrestling is no stranger to intense rivalries and backstage drama. However, the bitterness expressed by both Bret Hart and Ronda Rousey underscores a larger issue within the industry. For decades, wrestling has been plagued by backstage politics, broken promises, and the physical and emotional toll it takes on its performers.
Moné’s perspective sheds light on the complex relationships and rivalries that continue to shape the wrestling landscape. Her candidness about Rousey’s bitterness, juxtaposed with Hart’s long-standing grievances, highlights the enduring struggles that many wrestlers face, both in and out of the ring.
Stephen’s Insight
As the wrestling world evolves, the stories of its past and present stars serve as a reminder of the challenges and sacrifices inherent in the industry. Whether it’s Bret Hart’s ongoing feuds or Ronda Rousey’s outspoken critiques, these narratives contribute to the rich tapestry of professional wrestling. For fans and insiders alike, Moné’s insights offer a fresh perspective on the ever-unfolding drama that makes wrestling a uniquely captivating spectacle.
