Introduction
Bret Hart, also known as “The Hitman,” is a Canadian-American retired professional wrestler, writer, and actor. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time and has had a successful career spanning several decades. In addition to his accomplishments in the wrestling industry, Hart has also ventured into other fields, including acting and writing. With his numerous achievements and contributions to the world of professional wrestling, it is no wonder that many are curious about Bret Hart’s net worth in 2024.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Bret Hart was born on July 2, 1957, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, into a wrestling family. His father, Stu Hart, was a professional wrestler and promoter, and his mother, Helen Hart, came from a wrestling family as well. Growing up in such an environment, it was only natural for Bret to develop an interest in wrestling.
He began his wrestling career in the late 1970s, initially working for his father’s promotion, Stampede Wrestling. Bret quickly gained recognition for his technical skills and in-ring abilities, which set him apart from other wrestlers of his time. His talent and dedication to the craft eventually caught the attention of larger wrestling promotions, leading to his signing with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1984.
Rise to Prominence in the WWF
Upon joining the WWF, Bret Hart initially formed a tag team with his brother-in-law, Jim Neidhart, known as The Hart Foundation. The duo achieved considerable success, winning the WWF Tag Team Championship on two occasions. However, it was Bret’s singles career that truly propelled him to stardom.
Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Bret Hart became one of the WWF’s top stars. His technical wrestling prowess, combined with his charismatic personality, made him a fan favorite. He won his first WWF World Heavyweight Championship in 1992, solidifying his status as a main event player.
The Montreal Screwjob and Departure from the WWF
One of the most significant events in Bret Hart’s career was the infamous Montreal Screwjob in 1997. At the time, Hart was scheduled to defend his WWF World Heavyweight Championship against Shawn Michaels at the Survivor Series pay-per-view. However, due to a contract dispute, Hart was planning to leave the WWF for its rival promotion, World Championship Wrestling (WCW).
During the match, Vince McMahon, the owner of the WWF, ordered the referee to ring the bell and declare Michaels the winner, despite Hart not submitting or being pinned. This incident, which Hart was unaware of, caused a major controversy and strained his relationship with the WWF. He subsequently left the company and joined WCW.
WCW and Retirement
Upon joining WCW, Bret Hart’s career took a downturn. He faced numerous challenges, including creative differences and a serious concussion that forced him to take a hiatus from wrestling. Despite these setbacks, Hart continued to wrestle and even won the WCW World Heavyweight Championship.
However, in 2000, Hart suffered a career-ending injury during a match with Bill Goldberg. The injury, which resulted in a severe concussion, forced him to retire from professional wrestling. Although his in-ring career came to an abrupt end, Hart remained involved in the wrestling industry through various roles, including as a commentator and ambassador for the sport.
Post-Retirement Ventures and Net Worth
Following his retirement from wrestling, Bret Hart explored other avenues to stay connected to the industry. He wrote an autobiography titled “Hitman: My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling,” which became a bestseller. Hart also made appearances in films and television shows, further expanding his reach beyond the wrestling world.
As of 2024, Bret Hart’s net worth is estimated to be around $14 million. This figure takes into account his earnings from his wrestling career, book sales, acting roles, and various endorsements. Despite his retirement, Hart continues to make appearances at wrestling events and conventions, which contribute to his ongoing income.
Legacy and Influence
Bret Hart’s impact on the world of professional wrestling cannot be overstated. His technical wrestling style and ability to tell compelling stories in the ring set a new standard for future generations of wrestlers. Hart’s dedication to his craft and his commitment to delivering high-quality matches earned him the respect and admiration of fans and fellow wrestlers alike.
Furthermore, Hart’s contributions to the wrestling industry extend beyond his in-ring performances. His autobiography provided fans with an intimate look into the world of professional wrestling, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes realities of the business. Hart’s openness and honesty about his experiences have made him a source of inspiration for aspiring wrestlers and fans alike.
Conclusion
Bret Hart’s net worth in 2024 reflects his successful career in professional wrestling and his ventures beyond the ring. From his early days in Stampede Wrestling to his rise to prominence in the WWF and his eventual retirement from WCW, Hart’s journey has been filled with triumphs and challenges. Despite the controversies and setbacks he faced, Hart’s contributions to the wrestling industry and his lasting legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time are undeniable.
As Bret Hart continues to make appearances and share his experiences with fans, his net worth is likely to grow even further. However, it is his impact on the wrestling world and the inspiration he has provided to countless individuals that truly define his legacy.
