1. Bret Hart: WrestleMania 13
The number one spot on this list belongs to the “Hitman”, Bret Hart, who was involved in a brutal No Disqualification Submission Match against “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. Many journalists and fans consider this bout to be the most perfectly executed in-ring storytelling of all time, unique because the “Double Turn” took place during the match.
Hart was entering this match as the babyface whom fans cheered but were growing tired of, similar to the reactions John Cena and Roman Reigns would receive years later. Meanwhile, Austin was booed as the despised villain.
As the match progressed, the dynamic flipped; Hart grew increasingly reckless while Austin played the hero, refusing to tap out to the Sharpshooter. Austin eventually passed out, but not before being cheered by the crowd as a courageous warrior. Following the match, Hart solidified his new heel persona by berating the fans and special referee Ken Shamrock.
This bout earns number one on the list because this moment created the perfect transition dynamic for both wrestlers. Both men entered the ring with one alignment and walked out the exact opposite: Hart became a bitter, self-righteous heel, while Austin became the beloved babyface. Fans made a complete flip in who they cheered and booed solely because of the masterclass storytelling in the ring.
Unexpected heel turns are one of the most awesome things about WrestleMania, and throughout history, it has been proven that this event isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. It’s also a place where superstars realize that under the brightest lights, you sometimes have to make the darkest decisions.
This list proved that, and at WrestleMania 42, CM Punk may have to make the ultimate decision as to whether he wants to continue doing things pridefully, while risking the loss of his title. Or, does he potentially sell his soul to the “Final Boss,” The Rock, in order to keep what he feels belongs to him?
