Bret Hart, affectionately known as “The Hitman,” is one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history. With a career spanning decades, Bret has left an indelible mark on the industry through his unparalleled technical skills, captivating storytelling, and unforgettable rivalries.
| Personal Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bret Sergeant Hart |
| Date of Birth | July 2, 1957 |
| Age | 67 Years |
| Height | 6’0″ (183 cm) |
| Weight | 235 lbs (107 kg) |
| Residence | The Hart Mansion, Calgary, Alberta |
| Spouse | Stephanie Washington (2010 – Present) |
| Children | Four (from previous marriages) |
| Siblings | Eleven (including notable wrestler Owen Hart) |
| Profession | Professional Wrestler, Actor, Author |
Who Is Bret Hart?
Bret Hart wasn’t just born into wrestling; he was destined for it. Coming from a family deeply entrenched in the world of professional wrestling, Bret’s journey to greatness was influenced by his upbringing, his family’s legacy, and his relentless dedication to the craft.
Early Life and Background
Bret Sergeant Hart was born on July 2, 1957, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, into the legendary Hart wrestling family. His father, Stu Hart, was a renowned wrestler and promoter who owned the famed “Hart Dungeon,” a training facility that produced some of wrestling’s finest athletes. Bret grew up as one of 12 siblings, many of whom also pursued wrestling careers.
From an early age, Bret was immersed in the world of wrestling. He grew up watching his father train wrestlers and promote events, which sparked his interest in the sport. His formal training began in the Hart Dungeon, where he developed his technical wrestling style, which would later become his trademark.
Wrestling Debut
Bret Hart officially began his wrestling career in the late 1970s with his father’s promotion, Stampede Wrestling. His early matches were instrumental in honing his skills and gaining recognition as a promising talent. By the early 1980s, Bret made his way to the World Wrestling Federation (WWF)—now WWE—where his career truly took off.
In his initial years with WWF, Bret worked as part of a tag team called The Hart Foundation alongside Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart. The duo quickly became fan favorites, known for their chemistry and innovative double-team maneuvers. These formative years laid the foundation for Bret’s rise as one of wrestling’s biggest stars.
Career Achievements
Bret Hart’s career is synonymous with excellence. He earned his nickname, “The Excellence of Execution,” for his ability to perform in the ring with precision and finesse. Over the years, Bret achieved monumental success, cementing his place in wrestling history.
Major Championships
One of the hallmarks of Bret’s illustrious career is his impressive collection of championship victories. As a five-time WWF Champion, Bret carried the company during a transitional period in the 1990s, proving himself as a dependable and marketable star. Let’s take a closer look at the titles Bret has won:
- WWF World Heavyweight Championship (5 times): Bret became the face of WWF during the early-to-mid 90s, known for his technical wrestling and ability to elevate opponents.
- WWF Intercontinental Championship (2 times): His matches for this title, particularly against wrestlers like Mr. Perfect, are still considered classics.
- WWF Tag Team Championship (2 times): As part of The Hart Foundation, Bret captured tag team gold and revolutionized tag team wrestling.
- WCW World Heavyweight Championship (2 times): After leaving WWF, Bret continued his success in WCW, adding more world titles to his resume.
Notable Matches and Rivalries
Bret’s career is defined not just by titles but also by the unforgettable rivalries and matches that left a lasting impression on fans. Some of his most iconic feuds include:
- Shawn Michaels: Their rivalry culminated in the infamous “Montreal Screwjob” at Survivor Series 1997, a moment that changed wrestling history forever.
- Stone Cold Steve Austin: Their match at WrestleMania 13 is widely regarded as one of the greatest wrestling matches of all time, known for its double-turn dynamic.
- Owen Hart: Bret’s feud with his younger brother Owen showcased their unmatched chemistry and storytelling, resulting in classic matches like their WrestleMania X showdown.
These rivalries not only solidified Bret’s legacy but also played a significant role in shaping the wrestling industry during the 1990s.
Financial Overview: What Is Bret Hart’s Net Worth in 2025
In 2024, Bret Hart’s net worth is estimated to be $7 million. This wealth has been accumulated through his wrestling career, endorsements, merchandise sales, and other ventures. Let’s break down his income sources and financial standing.
Breakdown of Income Sources
- Wrestling Contracts and Appearances
Bret earned significant money during his time in both WWF and WCW. His WCW contract in the late 1990s, in particular, was one of the most lucrative deals of that era. Even after retiring as an active wrestler, Bret continues to make occasional appearances at wrestling events, conventions, and signings, which add to his income. - Merchandise Sales
Bret’s merchandise, including T-shirts, DVDs, and action figures, has been a consistent revenue stream. His iconic pink-and-black gear remains a fan favorite. - Royalties
Bret has been the subject of documentaries, books, and other media projects. His autobiography, “Hitman: My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling,” is a bestseller, contributing to his income through royalties. - Investments and Business Ventures
While Bret’s primary income has been through wrestling, he has also invested in real estate and other ventures. These investments have provided him with additional financial stability.
| Income Source | Contribution to Net Worth |
|---|---|
| Wrestling Contracts and Appearances | High |
| Merchandise Sales | Moderate |
| Royalties | Moderate |
| Investments | Moderate |
Legacy and Influence
Bret Hart’s influence on professional wrestling cannot be overstated. His contributions have shaped the sport and inspired countless wrestlers who followed in his footsteps.
Impact on Wrestling Industry
Bret’s technical in-ring style revolutionized wrestling during a time when larger-than-life personas dominated. He emphasized storytelling, psychology, and athleticism, proving that wrestling could be both an art form and a sport.
Recognition and Awards
Bret’s contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including:
- WWE Hall of Fame (2006, 2019): Inducted twice—once individually and once as part of The Hart Foundation.
- Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame: Honored for his contributions to the sport.
- Match of the Year Awards: Multiple matches involving Bret have been named Match of the Year by wrestling publications.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Bret Hart’s life outside the ring is equally fascinating. He has faced personal challenges but has also given back to his community and fans.
Family Life
Bret has been married three times and has four children. Despite the challenges of balancing a wrestling career and family life, Bret remains close to his children. He is also an advocate for stroke awareness, having suffered a stroke himself in 2002.
Philanthropic Efforts
Bret has supported various charitable causes, including organizations focused on stroke recovery and cancer research. His philanthropy reflects his compassionate nature and desire to make a difference.
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