Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels have both had storied careers, but certain fans will always define the two by that singular moment known to the wrestling world as the “Montreal Screwjob.” On a recent episode of “Six Feet Under,” The Undertaker mourned this unfortunate truth, having witnessed the ugliness of Survivor Series 1997 transpire firsthand. “It’s just one of those situations. Really unfortunate,” The Undertaker said. “They both had such great, stellar careers, phenomenal careers. And you get asked about one political hit job… I guess it’s great for the marks to talk and argue about… but I feel bad for Shawn and Bret.”
At Survivor Series 1997, Hart was unceremoniously duped into dropping the WWE Championship to Shawn Michaels, a double-cross that left Hart harboring resentment for a long time. It wouldn’t be until years later when Vince McMahon attempted gestures of goodwill toward “The Hitman,” starting first with a phone call following his stroke, and later a WWE Hall of Fame induction in 2006. Hart and Michaels eventually made amends when Hart returned to the company in 2010 to build a WrestleMania storyline. Hart would even mend fences with Earl Hebner, the referee during the match, and supposedly one of a handful of individuals “in the know” of what was going to happen.
“I’m friends with both Shawn and Bret. I think the world of both of those guys,” The Undertaker said. “I’m glad everybody’s kind of in a different spot now. But it really sucked that had to happen.” Matt Lyda, The Undertaker’s co-host, commented that after the “Montreal Screwjob,” discerning viewers could pick up on Hart’s lack of enthusiasm after joining rival WCW. “If he doesn’t get hurt, you never know what happens,” The Undertaker said. “But when your heart’s not in something like that, it’s tough, man.”
The Undertaker’s reflections underscore the long-lasting impact of the Montreal Screwjob on the lives and careers of those involved. Despite their incredible achievements and contributions to professional wrestling, Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels will always be linked to that controversial night in Montreal. It is a testament to their professionalism and personal growth that they eventually reconciled and moved past the incident.
The wrestling world has often debated and dissected the events of Survivor Series 1997, with fans and commentators alike weighing in on the motivations and consequences. However, The Undertaker’s perspective adds a poignant layer to the narrative, highlighting the human element behind the spectacle. As one of the most respected figures in the industry, his words carry significant weight and offer a glimpse into the emotional toll of such a high-profile betrayal.
As time has passed, both Hart and Michaels have continued to build their legacies, earning respect and admiration from fans and peers. Their ability to forgive and move forward serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and camaraderie that underpins the world of professional wrestling. The Montreal Screwjob remains a defining moment in wrestling history, but it does not diminish the remarkable careers of Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels.
