In the fall of 1993, Bret Hart was trying to find his way back to the top after losing the title to Yokozuna and never having gotten a rematch. During that time, an idea was pitched that Bret do an angle with his brother, Bruce. The Hitman suggested that a different brother be used. He had a Survivor Series match where he tagged with his brothers, including his brother Owen who was the only Hart to be eliminated. Owen blamed Bret for his taking a pinfall and later challenged Bret to a fight. The Hitman wanted no part in a match with his own brother, but Owen was steadfast in his desire to find out who the better man was, eventually getting Bret to agree to a match at WrestleMania. This was the classic example of two brothers trying to outsmart each other. The wrestling was tip top, as they channeled their past experiences with each other as two kids that grew up in the business with youthful expertise and talent. Owen showed that he was perfectly capable of hanging with Bret. The younger Hart proceeded to dazzle the live crowd with spectacularly efficient moves. He was a very fluid wrestler really getting his first chance to have a showcase match. He made the most of it. The Hitman nearly had his comeback complete when Owen blocked his Victory Roll and scored the pin. The critics were acclaiming this match from the get-go, but while it is unquestionably considered a wrestling clinic that young superstars learning their craft should thoroughly study, it may always be overshadowed by the HBK vs. Razor Ramon Ladder match on the same show. Yet, it is undoubtedly a classic. It stands the test of time and harkens back to a time when things were simpler when telling a story. Brother vs. Brother was simply enough and no further bells and whistles were required. It was one of the finest displays of in-ring performance in Mania lore. I subsequently feel it was the better match at WrestleMania X. While the original Ladder match has been topped, Bret-Owen stands the test of time and may have the greater staying power as the years continue to pass. It could fluctuate, from year-to-year, but it will always be right up near the top.
"The Doc" Chad Matthews has written wrestling columns for over a decade. A physician by trade, Matthews began writing about wrestling as a hobby, but it became a passion. After 30 years as a wrestling fan, "The Doc" gives an unmatched analytical perspective on pro wrestling in the modern era. He is a long-time columnist for Lordsofpain.net and hosts a weekly podcast on the LOP Radio Network called "The Doc Says." His first book - The WrestleMania Era: The Book of Sports Entertainment - ranks the Top 90 wrestlers from 1983 to present day, was originally published in December 2013, and is now in its third edition.
Matthews lives in North Carolina with his wife, two kids, and two dogs.
