The Montreal Screwjob: Understanding a Defining Moment in Pro Wrestling

Professional wrestling has its share of controversial episodes, and one of the most memorable and significant among them is the Montreal Screwjob. This incident, which occurred during the Survivor Series pay-per-view event on November 9, 1997, at the Molson Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, was a real-life double-cross that shook the industry’s foundation.

Background and Setup

Bret Hart was the reigning WWF Champion and was scheduled to transition to a rival promotion, WCW World Championship Wrestling, after the event. However, Hart had a commitment to drop the title to Shawn Michaels, despite his discomfort with doing so in Canada. This delicate situation set the stage for the impending deception orchestrated by Vince McMahon and other executives.

The Incident

During the match, Hart's opponent was using a finishing move known as the Sharpshooter. Referee Earl Hebner, predetermined to call for Hart's defeat, interrupted the contest without allowing Hart to submit. This sudden and unexpected turn of events led to a violent confrontation between Hart and McMahon in the ring shortly after the match. Hart ended the feud by spitting in McMahon's face, a symbolic act that publicly revealed the betrayal.

The Aftermath

The aftermath of the Montreal Screwjob was as shocking as the event itself. Vince McMahon's immediate response was to come out on the next Raw show and apologize to the WWF fans, taking the blame and essentially positioning himself as the true authority in the company. This moment is famously known as the catalyst for the Attitude Era, a shift in the WWE that prioritized realistic and controversial storylines.

Bret Hart, although betrayed, made a significant career move and went on to work for WCW, where he made more money than he ever had in his entire wrestling career. Shawn Michaels capitalized on the storyline and began his reign as the WWF Champion on the Raw show with his partnership in Dynasty (DX).

The event led to an operational shift in professional wrestling, pushing the boundaries between reality and storyline. Referees, managers, and promotions were no longer just part of the script; they became integral to the narrative’s authenticity.

Legacy and Impact

The Montreal Screwjob is widely regarded as one of the most significant moments in wrestling history. It has been the subject of numerous documentaries, books, and discussions, symbolizing themes of trust, betrayal, and the complexities of the wrestling business. This pivotal moment remains an essential part of wrestling history, influencing storylines and altering the dynamics between wrestlers and promotions.

Conclusion

The Montreal Screwjob is more than just a memorable event in pro wrestling; it represents a turning point in the industry. From changing storylines and narrative styles to reshaping the relationships between performers and the promotion, this incident has left a lasting impact on the entire professional wrestling community.

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References

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