In a candid conversation with talkSPORT, wrestling legend Bret Hart shared his unfiltered view of today's WWE landscape, pointing out a significant shift in the narrative quality of matches. Despite acknowledging the impressive athleticism of current wrestlers, Hart pinpointed a critical gap in their ability to weave compelling stories within the ring, a skill he feels was more pronounced in his era.
His observations were particularly evident during this year's WrestleMania, where he felt the drama was notably lacking. Hart remarked, "Back in my days, we were storytellers. Watching WrestleMania recently, I saw incredible athleticism, no doubt.
But the essence of drama, the storytelling that glues the audience to their seats, seemed missing."
Hart Reflects on Evolution
Reflecting on the evolution of wrestling, Hart sees the current trend as a phase. He recalled watching his iconic SummerSlam 1992 match against Davey Boy Smith at Wembley Stadium, where even seasoned journalists were captivated, believing in the authenticity of the match.
This experience, Hart believes, is a testament to the power of storytelling, which he hopes will resurface in modern wrestling. Despite his critique of the current 'phoney' style, Hart remains optimistic, particularly highlighting the strong fan response to British wrestlers Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate.
Their approach, which resonates more closely with Hart's vision of wrestling, could signal a shift back towards the dramatic, story-driven matches. In addition to his recent comments, Hart has previously expressed his disapproval of modern wrestling styles, likening them to ballet or dancing, focusing more on physicality than narrative.
He longs for a return to the days when wrestling was not just about athleticism but also about captivating tales, engaging the audience on a deeper level. As the wrestling world continues to evolve, voices like Hart's offer a crucial perspective, balancing the scales between athletic prowess and narrative depth. His insight serves as a reminder of the rich history of wrestling and its potential future directions.