9. WrestleMania 26 Bret Hart (vs. Vince McMahon)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3J131j4bDk This may be a controversial pick, given the loyal legions of Bret Hart fans (myself included). But in this fan's opinion, his no holds barred match against Vince was the runner-up for worst match on that WrestleMania card (following close behind the 10-Diva Tag match). Vince's past appearances at WrestleMania have usually been enhanced by engrossing drama and/or hard-core hijinks, but it all fell flat this time (possibly due to his being more elderly). Bret Hart's past appearances at Mania have often ranked as match of the year, some of the greatest matches of his (and his opponents') careers! His reputation is near-immaculate: all the more reason that he shouldn't have been here in a wrestling capacity. The aged/injured state of both men was even more exaggerated by the "added bonus" of the Hart family. Aside from the Hart Dynasty and Natalya (most of whom have failed to inspire much excitement in the ring, in their primes), the Hart family is a weather-beaten crew of bitter folk. Seeing them hobble and sneer their way down the long ramp of the stadium, their legacy just didn't hold up under the glittering lights. While respect should be paid to the Harts for their contributions to pro wrestling, their appearances here (even Bret's), seemed ill-placed. The spotlight became unflattering. The match itself was so plodding and uncomfortable, a tarnishing mark on a once-great grappler's career. Bret deserved a comeback. He deserved closure. But this was too much, for all of us.
Heather Hickey
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Follow me @kickyhick :) I hold a degree in English Rhetoric & Professional Writing from the University of Waterloo in Canada. I've done technical writing, executive presentations, and recruiting materials for BlackBerry, and I write for non-profit organizations. My favourite project so far has been combining my passion for writing with being a die-hard wrestling fan. It's a pleasure to write here for WhatCulture, and also for TJRwrestling.com.
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