The Montreal screwjob is one of the most important and influential events in professional wrestling history. On that night, Vince McMahon plotted to take the title from the departing Bret Hart by calling for the end to his match against Shawn Michaels even though Hart did not submit to his signature Sharpshooter. The move would mark the end of Harts time in WWF and established Vince McMahon as one of the most sadistic heels in wrestling history. A similar event that was not quite as influential or important was Harts involvement in the main event at Starrcade 1997. During the match, Hollywood Hogan faced Sting for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. Hogan eventually won and retained the title after performing his signature big boot and leg drop combo. Bret Hart came to the ring following the three-count and ordered that the contest be restarted, however, because he said referee Nick Patricks count had been fast. Sting eventually picked up the victory and won the title from Hogan. The only problem was that the count was completely fair and even the most oblivious mark could tell that the whole situation was a work. Harts involvement would mark the first of many booking decisions that were either deceptive or just flat-out foolish.
Michael Hicks is a writer originally from Pittsburgh, PA. He has written for a number of websites about subjects ranging from professional wrestling to raw denim.
