The Montreal Screwjob: Unveiling the Truth Behind WWE’s Most Controversial Moment
The world of professional wrestling is no stranger to controversy, but few incidents have left as indelible a mark on the industry as the Montreal Screwjob. This infamous event, which took place at WWE Survivor Series 1997, saw Bret Hart, one of the most respected figures in wrestling, being double-crossed in front of his home crowd in Montreal, Canada. The incident has been the subject of speculation, debate, and intrigue for over two decades, with many details remaining murky. However, Netflix’s recent docuseries ‘Mr. McMahon’ has brought new revelations to light, shedding fresh perspective on the roles played by key figures like Vince McMahon, Shawn Michaels, and Triple H.
The Montreal Screwjob was a pivotal moment in wrestling history, not just for its immediate impact but for the way it reshaped the landscape of WWE. At its core, the Screwjob was about Vince McMahon’s fear of Bret Hart leaving WWE for rival promotion WCW while still holding the WWE Championship. McMahon, determined to prevent this, orchestrated a plan that involved referee Earl Hebner prematurely ringing the bell, thus awarding the match to Shawn Michaels despite Hart not submitting. This betrayal was not only a professional slight but a deeply personal one, given the animosity that had been brewing between Hart and Michaels.
One of the most shocking revelations from the ‘Mr. McMahon’ docuseries is the extent of Triple H’s involvement in the Montreal Screwjob. While much of the blame has historically fallen on McMahon and Michaels, it has now come to light that Triple H played a significant role in orchestrating the event. According to the documentary, Triple H, who has been best friends with Michaels since the 1990s, felt that Hart was being unreasonable in his refusal to drop the title. He proposed going behind Hart’s back to ensure the title change, a suggestion that ultimately led to the infamous incident. This new information adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, implicating Triple H in one of wrestling’s most controversial moments.
Bret Hart’s reaction to the Screwjob was swift and intense. Immediately following the match, Hart confronted McMahon backstage, delivering a punch that has since become legendary in wrestling lore. Hart then walked out of the company, leaving a gaping hole in WWE’s roster and igniting a firestorm of controversy. Interestingly, the docuseries reveals that Hart harbors regret not just for the incident itself but for not confronting Triple H at the time. Hart’s reflections provide a poignant look at the emotional toll the Screwjob took on him, both professionally and personally.
The Montreal Screwjob did more than just tarnish relationships; it had far-reaching consequences for WWE. In the immediate aftermath, several stars, including Rick Rude and Mick Foley, left the company in protest. The incident also gave rise to the ‘Mr. McMahon’ character, a villainous persona that Vince McMahon would adopt in WWE storylines, significantly contributing to the company’s Attitude Era. This era was marked by edgier content and more complex characters, a stark departure from the more family-friendly programming of the past. The Screwjob, in many ways, served as the catalyst for this transformation.
Despite the widespread belief that the Montreal Screwjob was a legitimate double-cross, there has always been speculation that it might have been staged for publicity. The ‘Mr. McMahon’ docuseries addresses these rumors head-on, with those involved insisting that the incident was not a work. Bruce Prichard, a long-time confidant of McMahon, revealed that he was told the match would have a ‘schmozz finish,’ a term used in wrestling to describe a chaotic and inconclusive ending. Hart, already suspicious of McMahon’s intentions, was nonetheless blindsided by the Screwjob, lending credence to the argument that it was indeed a genuine betrayal.
Another intriguing aspect explored in the docuseries is the role of personal relationships and backstage politics in the Montreal Screwjob. The tension between Bret Hart and Vince McMahon was well-documented, but the documentary delves deeper into how these dynamics influenced the event. It also highlights the involvement of Stephanie McMahon, Vince’s daughter and Triple H’s wife, suggesting that the Screwjob was a family affair. This revelation adds another layer to the story, illustrating how intertwined personal and professional lives can be in the world of wrestling.
Triple H’s involvement in the Montreal Screwjob has long been a topic of debate among wrestling fans and experts. Both Triple H and Shawn Michaels have consistently denied any direct involvement in the planning of the Screwjob, but the ‘Mr. McMahon’ docuseries presents evidence to the contrary. According to the documentary, Triple H’s suggestion to go behind Hart’s back was a turning point in the planning of the event. This new information complicates the narrative, raising questions about the true extent of Triple H’s role and his motivations.
The docuseries also explores the broader implications of the Montreal Screwjob for WWE and the wrestling industry as a whole. The incident not only changed the course of individual careers but also had a lasting impact on the company’s culture and business practices. The Screwjob is often cited as a turning point that led to more scripted and controlled outcomes in wrestling matches, a trend that continues to this day. This shift has had both positive and negative effects, providing more consistent storytelling but also reducing the spontaneity that many fans cherish.
One of the most compelling aspects of the ‘Mr. McMahon’ docuseries is its exploration of the emotional and psychological impact of the Montreal Screwjob on those involved. Bret Hart, in particular, is portrayed as a tragic figure, a man who was betrayed by the very company he helped build. The documentary provides a nuanced look at Hart’s feelings of betrayal and regret, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the human cost of the Screwjob. This emotional depth adds a layer of poignancy to the story, making it more than just a tale of professional rivalry and corporate maneuvering.
The Montreal Screwjob remains one of the most debated and analyzed events in wrestling history. Fans and experts alike continue to dissect every detail, searching for new insights and perspectives. The ‘Mr. McMahon’ docuseries contributes to this ongoing conversation by presenting new evidence and viewpoints, challenging long-held beliefs and sparking fresh debates. Whether viewed as a legitimate betrayal or a masterful piece of storytelling, the Screwjob is undeniably a landmark moment that continues to captivate audiences.
In conclusion, the Montreal Screwjob is a multifaceted event that defies easy categorization. It is a story of betrayal and ambition, of personal and professional conflict, and of the blurred lines between reality and fiction in the world of professional wrestling. The ‘Mr. McMahon’ docuseries offers a comprehensive and compelling look at this complex event, providing new revelations and deepening our understanding of its impact. As wrestling continues to evolve, the lessons and legacies of the Montreal Screwjob remain as relevant as ever, serving as a cautionary tale and a source of endless fascination.