Bret Hart Reflects on Iconic WrestleMania 13 Clash with Steve Austin

STAMFORD, Conn. — WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart revisited the legendary WrestleMania 13 match against “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, often hailed as one of the greatest bouts in professional wrestling history. The match, held on March 23, 1997, was a pivotal moment that not only defined both wrestlers’ careers but also marked a significant shift in the World Wrestling Federation’s narrative direction.

In a recent discussion, Hart reflected on the intense rivalry that led to the iconic submission match, explaining the backstory leading up to WrestleMania 13. At the time, he was at the pinnacle of WWE alongside former champions Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker. Following his loss to Michaels in a 60-minute Iron Man match at WrestleMania 12, Michaels vacated the championship due to a knee injury, which allowed Austin to rise in the ranks.

<p“The timing was perfect for the match,” Hart said. “With Shawn out of the picture, it created an opportunity for all of us to capitalize, and the tension was palpable between me and Austin.”

Hart’s previous encounter with Austin, a No. 1 contender’s match at Survivor Series 1996, showcased their chemistry and rivalry. Hart captured the victory in that bout, but both wrestlers knew that a more significant showdown was inevitable. “I thought, ‘We’ll leave each other alone for a while, and then we’ll circle back when he’s a bona fide babyface,’” Hart explained.

WrestleMania 13 was held under submission rules and featured Ken Shamrock as the special guest referee, a choice that Hart described as instrumental to the match’s dynamic. “He brought that UFC vibe to the match and was a respected presence,” Hart noted. “Even Steve had to respect him.”

The event kicked off with both competitors entering the arena with contrasting attitudes. Austin’s brash persona was highlighted as he showcased his defiance to the audience, while Hart engaged with fans in his traditional manner. The match quickly escalated into an intense brawl that set the tone for the evening.

<p“From the very beginning, it was about real emotion and intensity,” Hart recounted. “I had a plan for new moves, and that figure-four around the ring post became a signature moment.”

As the match progressed, the violence escalated, with both wrestlers sustaining visible injuries. Austin’s bleeding from a head wound became a critical narrative device, illustrating the brutality of their confrontation without prior consent from officials. “We had to use our own discretion,” Hart admitted, reinforcing the stakes of the match.

Despite the unsanctioned bloodshed, Hart emphasized the importance of maintaining the storytelling aspect of their rivalry. “The storytelling was what ultimately made it so special,” he said. “Even after the match, the audience could feel the impact.”

One of the pivotal moments came when Hart locked Austin in the Sharpshooter, capturing the essence of their rivalry. “I remember telling him, ‘This would be iconic,’” Hart said, reflecting on the emotional weight of that moment. Austin’s struggle against the hold highlighted his resilience and further endeared him to the fans.

Ultimately, Austin passed out from the pain, but not without leaving a lasting impression. “In that moment, I realized they hated me now, and they loved Steve,” Hart recounted, acknowledging the shift in audience allegiance that the match facilitated.

After the match concluded, Hart’s character shifted as he attacked Austin again, fully embracing his new role as a heel. The emotional exchange backstage with fellow wrestlers, including The Undertaker, reaffirmed the match’s impact. “He looked at me and said, ‘I’m never going to top that match,’ and we all knew how significant it was,” Hart said.

Years later, Hart takes pride in the match’s legacy, especially now that it has been commemorated with the inaugural Immortal Moment Award at the WWE Hall of Fame. “I watched so many great wrestlers in my lifetime, and to have my match recognized like this is truly special,” Hart stated. “I believe it was the best match in my career.”