Bret Hart Claims Triple H and Shawn Michaels Tried to Get WWE Legend Fired

WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart recently shared a surprising story from his time in WWE, revealing that Triple H and Shawn Michaels allegedly attempted to have Ken Shamrock fired early in his WWE career. In an interview on the 1 Of A Kind podcast with Dominic D’Angelo, Hart explained that the two WWE icons tried to convince Vince McMahon to release Shamrock, who had just transitioned from UFC to WWE, citing concerns about his in-ring stiffness. Hart, however, defended Shamrock, and his intervention may have saved Shamrock’s WWE career.

Bret Hart on Triple H and Shawn Michaels’ Attempt to Remove Shamrock

According to Hart, the tension began shortly after Shamrock joined WWE. The former UFC star was brought in at Hart’s suggestion to bridge the gap while he recovered from a wrist injury. Hart shared, “When they signed him, Triple H and Shawn Michaels tried to get him fired. For no reason other than they didn’t like him.” McMahon initially considered letting Shamrock go after receiving feedback from Michaels and Triple H about Shamrock’s in-ring style, specifically that he was “stiff” with his moves.

However, when McMahon consulted Hart about Shamrock, Hart vouched for him, assuring McMahon that Shamrock was adjusting well to the wrestling world. “I told Vince, ‘I would keep him. He’s doing great,’” Hart recalled, emphasizing his support for Shamrock’s potential.

How Hart’s Support Shaped Shamrock’s WWE Career

Hart’s endorsement ultimately persuaded McMahon to retain Shamrock, who went on to enjoy a successful WWE career. Within weeks of McMahon’s initial hesitation, Shamrock was appointed as a special enforcer in Hart’s famous WrestleMania 13 match against Stone Cold Steve Austin, further solidifying his place in WWE. This moment became a defining point in Shamrock’s career, leading to notable rivalries and establishing him as “The World’s Most Dangerous Man” in WWE.

Legacy of Tension Between Hart, Michaels, and Triple H

Hart’s recollection highlights the ongoing tension between himself and the duo of Triple H and Michaels, especially following the infamous Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series 1997. Hart’s story provides another layer to the complex backstage dynamics of WWE’s Attitude Era, illustrating how alliances and rivalries played a significant role in shaping WWE’s roster during one of its most popular eras.