Bret Hart Open to AEW Appearance, But WWE Ties May Complicate Matters

One big thing: Bret Hart hasn’t been asked to participate in AEW’s Owen Hart Foundation Tournament

The legendary wrestler revealed he hasn’t been approached by AEW to be part of the annual event honoring his late brother, Owen Hart.

• Hart stated, “I’d have to think about it. I like Tony [Khan] and I’d be happy to help out, but I don’t know if I want to go down — I think it might ruffle WWE’s feathers and I get all my [royalties], everything tied in through them.”
• The tournament, now in its third year, took place in Owen Hart’s hometown of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
• This year’s winners, Bryan Danielson and Mariah May, earned title shots at AEW’s All In pay-per-view on August 25.

Why it matters

Bret Hart’s potential involvement in AEW’s Owen Hart Foundation Tournament could add significant star power and emotional weight to the event, given his close relationship with his late brother.

By the numbers

• It’s been 25 years since Owen Hart’s tragic passing.
• This marks the 3rd annual Owen Hart Foundation Tournament.
• Bret Hart made 1 appearance at AEW’s first pay-per-view, Double or Nothing, in 2019.

The big picture

Hart’s hesitation highlights the complex relationships between wrestlers, promotions, and their contractual obligations. His situation underscores the ongoing competition between AEW and WWE for talent and fan attention.

What’s next

While Hart seems open to the possibility of an AEW appearance, the ball is in AEW’s court to reach out and navigate any potential conflicts with WWE.

What do you think about Bret Hart potentially appearing at a future Owen Hart Foundation Tournament? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!