The emergence of Bret Hart in the early nineties gave way to smaller and more technically gifted workers in the WWF. He was pushed to the top of the card as much out of circumstance (Vince was involved in a steroid trial so the WWF wanted to push more normal looking men), but his push forever opened the door for a more athletic style of action. Bret proved that you didn't have to be a giant to make it. He proved that a technical wrestling match could impress fans as much a giant brawl. Bret's influence stayed and the WWE continued to incorporate proper workers into the top of their card. Guys like Shawn Michaels (ironically) and Kurt Angle would not have had main event careers if Bret hadn't proved the number one guy could be different from the Hogan model.
