Wrestling history is filled with iconic rivalries, but few have left as lasting an impact as the feud between Bret “The Hitman” Hart and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Their encounters in the ring, particularly their legendary WrestleMania 13 match, redefined professional wrestling, influencing the industry for generations. This article explores the intense rivalry, key moments, and the lasting legacy of this unforgettable showdown.
## The Rise of Two Legends
Bret Hart had already established himself as one of WWE’s greatest technical wrestlers. With his precise execution, sharpshooter submission hold, and unwavering dedication to excellence, Hart was the embodiment of pure wrestling skill. By the mid-1990s, he had earned multiple WWE Championships and was regarded as the best there was, the best there is, and the best there ever will be.
On the other hand, Steve Austin was an emerging superstar who had reinvented himself from his earlier days as “Stunning” Steve Austin. As the rebellious, trash-talking “Texas Rattlesnake,” Austin quickly captured the imagination of fans, making it clear that he was destined for greatness. His no-nonsense attitude and aggressive in-ring style made him the perfect foil to Hart’s technical mastery.
## The Spark That Ignited the Rivalry
The seeds of this epic feud were planted in late 1996 when Austin, who had won the prestigious King of the Ring tournament earlier that year, set his sights on Bret Hart. Hart had taken a hiatus after losing the WWE Championship to Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XII, and upon his return, he found Austin waiting for him. Austin, never one to back down from a fight, taunted Hart, challenging his place as WWE’s top star.
Their first major clash took place at Survivor Series 1996. Hart managed to defeat Austin in a technical masterpiece, but Austin’s resilience and refusal to submit proved that he was a rising force. The rivalry, however, was far from over.
## WrestleMania 13 – The Match That Defined an Era
The pinnacle of this feud came at WrestleMania 13 in a Submission Match that has since been regarded as one of the greatest matches in WWE history. The stipulation favored Hart, who was known for his deadly Sharpshooter, while Austin, not typically a submission specialist, had everything to prove.
From the opening bell, the match was a brutal and intense battle. The fight spilled outside the ring, with both men using the steel barricades, ring posts, and even the timekeeper’s table as weapons. Austin, ever the brawler, matched Hart’s technical expertise with sheer grit and aggression.
One of the most defining moments of the match occurred when Hart locked Austin in the Sharpshooter. Blood streamed down Austin’s face as he refused to submit, screaming in pain but refusing to quit. The visual of a bloodied Austin struggling in the Sharpshooter became one of the most iconic images in wrestling history.
Ultimately, Austin passed out from the pain, and the referee, Ken Shamrock, stopped the match, awarding the victory to Hart. However, in a surprising twist, the crowd’s reaction began to shift. Instead of cheering for Hart, they sympathized with Austin’s determination. Bret Hart, enraged by Austin’s resilience, continued his assault after the match, cementing his transition into a villainous role. Meanwhile, Austin, despite losing, emerged as a hero in the eyes of the fans, marking the beginning of his rise as WWE’s top anti-hero.
## The Aftermath and Long-Term Impact
This match not only solidified Austin’s popularity but also played a significant role in ushering in WWE’s Attitude Era. The storytelling, character work, and raw intensity of the bout set a new standard for professional wrestling. Austin’s defiance and unwillingness to surrender made him a fan favorite, propelling him toward superstardom.
For Hart, the feud with Austin led to his controversial departure from WWE later that year, culminating in the infamous “Montreal Screwjob” at Survivor Series 1997. Meanwhile, Austin’s trajectory only soared higher as he went on to win the WWE Championship at WrestleMania XIV, officially becoming the face of the company.
## Why This Rivalry Stands the Test of Time
Few rivalries in wrestling history have had the same level of emotional depth, storytelling brilliance, and lasting influence as Bret Hart vs. Steve Austin. Their WrestleMania 13 match remains a benchmark for how wrestling can blend athleticism and drama to create magic inside the ring.
This rivalry was instrumental in transitioning WWE into a new era. It not only helped elevate Austin to legendary status but also showcased Hart’s ability to craft compelling narratives. To this day, wrestling fans look back at this feud as an example of how rivalries should be built, executed, and remembered.
## Conclusion
Bret “The Hitman” Hart and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin gave the wrestling world one of its most memorable rivalries. Their battles, especially at WrestleMania 13, set new standards for professional wrestling, influencing countless superstars who followed. The combination of technical prowess, raw intensity, and masterful storytelling makes this feud one for the ages.
Whether you were a fan of Hart’s technical brilliance or Austin’s rebellious spirit, one thing remains undeniable: their showdown was more than just a match—it was a moment that defined wrestling history. Their rivalry stands as proof that when two of the greatest of all time collide, magic happens inside the squared circle.