WRESTLEMANIA DIARY: BRET "HIT MAN" HART

Day One

ARRIVAL OF THE FITTEST, 10:25 A.M. PT
Mere miles away from the University of Phoenix Stadium, Bret Hart arrives at his Arizona destination via Sky Harbor Phoenix International Airport. And as he foretold on Monday Night Raw, he’s not alone. Beside Hart stands his 19-year-old son, Blade, who some WWE fans might recognize from decade-passed photos seen in WWE Magazine or Hart family home video footage.

WrestleMania week has descended upon the WWE Universe, as evident by the escalator ascent of the WWE Hall of Famer Bret and his youngest son. In conversation, Blade places his hand on his dad’s shoulder – a subtle gesture that reveals his support of his legendary father and a touching role reversal of parent and child.

A LITTLE "HART" TO SEE, 10:36 A.M..
Like he’s done so very many times before, The “Hit Man” finds his way to the airport’s luggage carousel. In a crowd of other arriving travelers, at first, a baseball-capped Hart is obscured in the hurried throng beneath the San Francisco-labeled headgear he acquired in the previous city visited.

All it takes, however, is just one person to identify one of the most recognizable personalities in sports-entertainment history, and the entire group at large takes notice. But, it is a warm reception given to The Excellence of Execution and his young son.

LUGGAGE “PIC”-UP, 10:41 A.M.
While Bret and Blade closely scout the conveyor belt of mixed bags to pick out their suitcases, several excited fans approach the WWE Hall of Famer for a picture. Hart gladly obliges the requests, creating a very casual, impromptu meet-and-greet in the middle of the airport. He even entertains one man’s unusual request for Bret to say “hello” to his girlfriend by cell phone. Yes, the girl on the line can hear him now.

The rest snap their shots and Bret’s genuine grin grows wider as the appreciative fans offer encouraging pre-WrestleMania words to the Superstar.

ROLL OUT, 11:03 A.M.
Luggage accounted for, father and son Hart roll out and onward, stepping into the hot, dry embrace of the local climate – much different than their accustomed chill of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

A reminder of what lies not too far ahead, Bret acknowledges the WrestleMania XXVI logo on the glass doors of the airport’s exit as he and Blade pass. The carefully sprinkled signage throughout this setting speaks to the excitement of the city of Phoenix for WWE’s mega-event. It would appear they’re just as anxious as Hart himself for The Biggest Spectacle of Them All and, of course, the in-ring return of The Excellence of Execution.

CUSHY RIDE, 11:25 A.M.
There are still a handful of days to go until The “Hit Man” engages in a No Holds Barred Match with a man who ordinarily sits in the only leather chair at the head of a sleek boardroom conference table. But before Bret heads into battle with WWE’s well-manicured, power-suited Chairman, the humble ring legend must pick up his rental car first.

In remarkably relaxed contrast to The Hit Man’s billionaire enemy, the two casually attired Harts – Bret in retro Air Jordans and Blade in comfy flip-flops; both in shorts – continue conversation and smile atop the patterned, plush cushions of an airport shuttle.

The mood is light and loose on board with both Harts, with no sign of anxiety or stress on the matured face of The Hit Man. Days before The Pink and Black competes in a WWE match for the first time since Nov. 9, 1997, it’s a simple father-son huddle between Bret and the teenaged Blade, who was also by his dad’s side in his last WWE match more than 12 years ago.

LOOK, UP IN THE SKY!, 12:22 P.M.
A short ride from the airport and as Bret Hart gets deeper into the heart of Phoenix, he finds a city that’s more than ready for – and frankly boasting – the honor of hosting a moment and confrontation none thought possible: Bret “Hit Man” Hart vs. Mr. McMahon.

Bret steps outside his vehicle and takes a brief, but good look at the banners overhead featuring him and WWE Champion Batista, two of the biggest components of this year’s WrestleMania. Lightning quick memory snapshots surely bring Bret back to his second night back on Raw when The Animal pummeled Hart at Mr. McMahon’s command – a thought that reminds The Hit Man of why he is here.

If it hasn’t already, it must be starting to sink in. This is it.

The palm trees lean with a breeze that’s almost as cool as Hart’s present demeanor, and Bret refocuses his attention to unpacking the car and settling in. He’s only just arrived and there are so many emotional moments that certainly lie ahead.

SHARPIE-SHOOTER, 2:21 P.M.
The “Hit Man” is barely unpacked before he executes a trip to a local art store to seek out the supplies he will need to generate an original piece of Hart’s signature cartoon art. Bret and fellow WWE Superstars will have their artistic creations on display for auction later in the evening at the third annual WrestleMania Art charity event.

Meticulous about his materials – pencils and canvas of choice, especially – Bret and Blade amble from aisle to aisle, perusing a spectrum of colorful markers and walls of other drawing implements.

“When I was poor – tough times growing up as a kid – it was always easy to get lost in cartoons,” Hart reflects. “We didn’t have the toys to play with, so I drew cowboys, Indians. I’d draw knights, Roman soldiers and stuff.”

“I didn’t say I drew them well,” he laughs, again softening the mood.
SOUVENIR SHOPPING, 2:33 P.M.
With the proper tools in his possession, Bret begins to search for the proper canvas and rummages through reams upon reams of paper in tints of white, off-white, off-off-white. While the white tones don’t hold too much of a bearing on his selection process, the texture and strength of the paper sheets is a legitimate factor for the longtime cartoonist.

“If the paper smudges, I can’t erase anything,” he calmly explains while doodling some sample work upon several squares of plain paper. “Even the tiniest mistake will smudge when you erase it.”

The “Hit Man” steps up to yet another large blank sheet and tests its bleed by signing his legendary name – a very routine task that he’ll likely repeat many times this week in the Glendale area. Bret appears content with this canvas and heads to check out at the register.

Without a second thought, he leaves behind his autograph in this low-traffic aisle within downtown Phoenix’s Arizona Art Supply. Unknowingly, Hart’s just produced a souvenir just waiting to be found and treasured by whoever might discover it.

RED FOCUS, 5:46 P.M.
Cacti line the sandstone road passing through the Beverly Hills of Arizona as Bret and Blade journey to Montelucia Resort & Spa for the WrestleMania Art event.

“It’s kind of like The Flintstones,” Bret lightheartedly jokes, describing the mountainous landscape.

This same red-hued, rocky backdrop is still visible in the distance behind Bret as he steps out of the car and onto the red carpet for the WWE charity event. Earlier, Hart began his soon-to-be auctioned artwork in his hotel room and he’s now anxious to work on it further. But before he can, The “Hit Man” welcomes the rapid fire questions and camera flashes from the pool of media on hand.

HART TO HARTS, 6:05 P.M.
According to The Excellence of Execution, there will be roughly 40 members of the famous Hart family present in Phoenix this weekend for the Hall of Fame Ceremony and WrestleMania. It’s no surprise for Bret to run into three more infamous members in The Hart Dynasty.

There’s some hesitance at first, but it doesn’t keep Bret and Blade from mugging up for a photo with Natalya, David Hart Smith and Tyson Kidd (technically an extended member of the Hart clan). No hostilities or allegiances; just good times at this event for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Phoenix Children’s Hospital. While Bret stands with his fellow contributing Superstar artists, the moment even forms a seemingly proud, contented look on The “Hit Man’s” face.

The WWE Hall of Famer shakes hands with the herd of WWE fans amid boisterous hollers of “Thank you, Bret!” Hart signs a number of autographs as well – WWE Encyclopedias, copies of WWE Magazine – then shares one particularly warming moment with a wheelchair bound fan named Roberto.

THE FINE ARTS, 7:40 P.M.
WrestleMania Art is underway and fans inter-mingle with talented WWE Superstars who’ve produced the masterful pieces on display at the show, including an impeccable sketch of Stu Hart created in reverence by Beth Phoenix.

A mere 20 feet away from his father’s stellar portrait, Bret Hart – an artist within the squared circle and out – continues his own live masterpiece. The “Hit Man” pauses for a brief moment when Jerry “The King” Lawler reveals his personal artful creation to his fellow WWE Hall of Famer. In honor of The Excellence of Execution’s return to WWE, Lawler’s drawn and colored a caricature of a trounced Mr. McMahon beneath a triumphant Hit Man.

“I sort of have a feeling that maybe this is going to be the outcome at WrestleMania, except, Vince may look a little worse than that!” Lawler says.

The King’s potentially prophetic picture is highlighted by a banner reading “Bret Screwed Vince” – which might be what many will say after Sunday’s No Holds Barred Match.

“Jerry’s a great artist; he’s the real deal,” praises a flattered Hit Man. “That [drawing] was so good, I’d consider buying it myself.”

SHOWCASING THE IMMORTALS, 8:45 P.M.
In the main event of WrestleMania Art, one very high bidder offers an astounding $3,000 for the original piece constructed and perfected by Bret Hart in a matter of hours, scoring huge proceeds for the Phoenix-based Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

“I was trying to do my own WrestleMania poster,” explains Bret, who claims his very first cartoons of real-life ring competitors featured Sweet Daddy Siki and Abdullah the Butcher.

In fact, these animated manifestations of wrestling’s greatest names – from all regions of the globe, from countless decades – stood on display at the art showcase. Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Andre the Giant, “Macho Man” Randy Savage. In Bret’s signature style, they all now belong to Cryme Tyme’s JTG, who personally purchased an original print of a cartoon portrait excellently executed by The Hit Man.

Tonight, Hart’s mural-style caricature of WWE’s top Superstars – John Cena, Batista, The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Randy Orton and Triple H – depicts the biggest names competing on The Grandest Stage of Them All. In great detail, Bret captures the unique characteristics of each competitor, skewing only slightly satirical when it comes to the cartoon features of certain Superstars.

“If I wasn’t dreaming about wrestling and wrestlers in my sleep,” he recollects, “I was drawing them in my math class for sure. Later on, I always found it fun to draw the wrestlers on the locker room walls.”

He continues, “I’ve still got the burning desire to violate someone’s good looks.”
THE GIFT, 9:01 P.M.
The WrestleMania Art event has concluded but the giving continues. Jerry Lawler has a masterful surprise in store for Bret Hart – and unlike the closing moments of the 1993 King of the Ring, this time, it’s not a scepter to the skull.

Lawler unveils a stunning portrait of The Excellence of Execution from one of the most definitive moments in his career: Hart’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006.

“I just started out doing a sketch of Bret … I figured I’d give it to him,” Lawler explains.

Though once very fierce enemies, The King and The Hit Man have grown a competitive kinship, of sorts. Astounded and grateful, Hart accepts the gift and shakes hands with his former nemesis, yielding a truly poignant moment showcasing a mutual respect shared by both men for their Hall of Fame careers.



Day Two

A GOOD STRETCH, 11:40 A.M. PT
The next day of Bret Hart’s week under the intense Phoenix sun begins in a cool, dark and emptied gym downtown. Armed with a single water bottle and nylon workout shorts, The “Hit Man” studies rows of varying weights and dumbbells. He spends a few moments just limbering up for what he expects will be a brief workout, given a full day’s schedule ahead. He gets in a good stretch – perhaps in is head hearing that term barked so often by his father, Stu, while doing so.

Hart works his upper body, revealing a slightly recognizable weakness in his left arm. This is remnant damage caused by his stroke in 2002, which had paralyzed the left side of his body.

Incredibly intense physical training is not practical. Instead, Bret’s movements are controlled and methodical, strengthening and toning his frame. A proper diet helps this cause, of course. But as The Hit Man explains, since traveling with Blade, his eating selection has been regrettably limited on several occasions to burgers.

“I don’t want to show up on Sunday looking like Jake Roberts,” Bret innocently jokes.

DALLAS IN PHOENIX, 2:17 P.M.
From Neidharts to Smiths to Harts, themselves, Bret expects perhaps four dozen family members to be present in Phoenix this weekend. Among them will be three of his four children. Joining Blade this afternoon is The “Hit Man’s” eldest son, Dallas Hart.

On his way from his hotel to an appearance at a local radio station, Bret receives a call on his iPhone. A click of his headset later and The Excellence of Execution greets his son, who’s just arrived in the Valley of the Sun and added yet another close, special Hart to the ranks of the family that will flank The Hit Man this weekend.

“They’re coming together for the right reason; to celebrate my father,” Bret proudly states. “There’s been a lot of dissention in the family over the years … This will be the first family reunion like this in a long time.”

LIVE ON THE AIR, 2:58 P.M.
A few miles away from the battle grounds for WrestleMania, Bret “Hit Man” Hart advances upon a pueblo-looking southwest inspired structure outside Phoenix. Inside, Hart is warmly received by radio personality for 98KUPD’s Fitz Madrid for The Excellence of Execution’s on-air interview with the rock station sultan.

In the middle of a fairly frank, candid live discussion, Hart explains that some of the latest songs from Radiohead (their In Rainbows album, specifically) as well as Dave Matthews Band have been most commonly circulating through his iTunes playlist.

SHADES OF PINK AND BLACK, 6:32 P.M.
The orange Phoenix sun is slowly beginning to descend, but that doesn’t compel The “Hit Man” to leave his hotel without his modern-day eyewear. A very short trip to the Phoenix Convention Center takes him to WrestleMania Axxess, which has once again continued to grow in its girth since the previous year.

Ushered into the building by yellow-jacketed security through the loading dock, Bret coolly continues through the bowels of the convention center until he arrives at a rear stage area.

While fans at Axxess explore the terrifying terrain of The Phenom’s WrestleMania graveyard, Hart untucks the hilt of his aviators from his shirt neckline and slides them over the bridge of his nose. While maintaining a contemplative poise, his sunglasses offer a brilliant reflection of the scene that slowly surrounds The Excellence of Execution. The lustrous glimmer from Hart’s mirrored shades leaves a stark, resonating image of The Hit Man – the best there is and much badder than Sylvester Stallone in Cobra.



"PEEK" PERFORMANCE, 6:39 P.M.
Only two parted opaque black curtains separate the second-generation WWE Hall of Famer from the voracious crowd of WWE fans on hand for Axxess. Hart surveys the audience, instantly detecting their palpable thirst for pink and black. Tonight especially, the vast auditorium wields a pulse as heavy as the synthesized heartbeat of Bret’s trademark entrance music.

From just one shrouded peek, Hart’s crosshairs are locked, their destination decided. It’s time for The Excellence of Execution to return to the festivities of WrestleMania’s incredible takeover of the Phoenix area.

IN STRIDE, 6:41 P.M.
Esteemed Axxess host Howard Finkel’s familiar pronouncement of The “Hit Man’s” name from out in the auditorium commences Bret’s assertive march toward the center stage of the event.

A mass succession of camera flashes cloak Bret’s body with warm, incandescent light as he saunters down the ramp of the Monday Night Raw-like set, a condensed version. Hart’s music echoes throughout the event, commanding the attention of the entire building – from those exploring the WrestleMania Memorabilia station to temporary tattoo recipients at the Superstar Ink section. The crowd’s eyes widen and refocus toward the ring for one of Axxess’ most successful, most popular attractions: Superstar Q&A … with “The Best There Is, The Best There Was and The Best There Ever Will Be.”
EXCELLENCE OF ELOCUTION, 6:50 P.M.

After his humbling reception from the Axxess audience, Bret’s fellow WWE Hall of Famer The Fink immediately executes his role in the live inquisition. Recollecting Hart’s finest moments in the ring at WrestleMania, Finkel shifts attention to the imminent future and Bret’s No Holds Barred Match on Sunday.

The fan-inspired questions continue and The “Hit Man” takes the opportunity to have some fun with a playful Simpsons reference that likens Vince McMahon to Montgomery Burns. Bret, however, doesn’t underestimate the calculative WWE Chairman and though their clash at The Show of Shows may not surpass The Hit Man’s personal favorite all-time WrestleMania performance against “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Hart is headstrong to carve a ’Mania memory.

The questions cease and Howard Finkel graciously thanks the WWE Legend for his time and candor, before The Fink expresses a genuine sentiment for all to hear.

“I will look him in the eye and say it … this is the best guy I’ve ever seen in the ring,” gushes The Fink, whose voice has touted the arrival of every major Superstar from the past three decades. He’s seen them all and, unmistakably, Finkel distinguishes Bret Hart as simply the best.

TWO LONG JOURNEYS, 7:11 P.M.
The Q&A has culminated but The “Hit Man” wants to get even more personal with the present WWE Universe contingent at Axxess. Hart exits the ring and circles its perimeter for an unparalleled experience with the elated WWE fans that Bret couldn’t enjoy for many, many years until his journey back.

The Excellence of Execution happens upon one longtime Hit Man fan, Corné Kuijpers, who’s traveled from the Netherlands just for an opportunity to lock hands with his leather jacketed idol. Their firm handshake is a gripping sight that tells of the immeasurable amount of support outpoured by Bret Hart loyalists. To witness Bret’s WWE return and, for these fans, the chance to share their passion with The Hit Man is a bold dream fulfilled.

“I’ve got goosebumps,” Kuijpers details, just moments after his close encounter with Bret. “[The Hit Man] is my childhood hero.”

He excitedly continues, “We traveled more than 26 hours to get here. Considering everything that’s happened in the past – the Screwjob and all – it’s just awesome that he’s here.”

Day Three

STADIUM SEATING, 5:35 P.M.
“It’s pretty cool being here,” Hart says while seated in a frontward section of the domed arena. “I’m just taking it all in.”

Briefly halting his tour of WrestleMania XXVI’s vast setting, Bret Hart has slipped into a row of what seems like an infinite quantity of commemorative chairs. The contemplative and relaxed “Hit Man” rests in the heart of the University of Phoenix Stadium – a “spaceship in the middle of the dessert,” as one passing crew member described while he and so many others erect the feel of Sunday’s spectacle.

“I don’t care what wrestling fans think about [my match] or say about it; what I care about is what the contingent of Hit Man fans feels about the match,” admits the passionate WWE Hall of Famer. “I just hope it stands beside the great matches that I’ve had over my career.”

Converse to his greatest hopes for his return at WrestleMania, The Hit Man considers his lone anxiety for Sunday.

“I just fear that I don’t kill Vince McMahon accidentally, on purpose,” he states with a very soft smirk that adds rich context to his intended humor

TIME FOR REFLECTION, 4:54 P.M.
In his mirrored specs, the image of empty University of Phoenix Stadium seats falsely foretells the landscape of WrestleMania XXVI, but still provides a rough canvas for Bret’s wildest imaginations.

The “Hit Man” peers at every corner of the venue, absorbing the size and guaranteed intensity of the main stage, as well as the immense banner touting the 26th edition of The Show of Shows. Most importantly, Hart gazes at the squared circle and, much like his aviator lenses, he reflects.

The last time Hart competed at WrestleMania was in 1997 against “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, which Bret admits was his favorite match at WWE’s flagship mega-event. At WrestleMania 13, Chicago’s Rosemont Horizon held less than 20,000 people who bore witness to a night in which Bret (beloved hero) and Austin (scorned villain) inverted their roles in the eyes of the WWE Universe.

Just as many years later (13), Hart will perform on an arguably much grander stage in front of approximately 70,000 raucous WWE fans, and feel a satisfaction that’s long overdue.

LIVING LEG-END, 2:10 P.M.
Like the sunglasses and the leather coat (even the fringe), there are a few symbols that people worldwide associate with Bret “Hit Man” Hart. Among those is the winged heart and skull famously displayed on The Excellence of Execution’s ring gear. This emblem – one iteration of which was designed by Jerry “The King” Lawler – appears in several forms at Hart’s Best Buy autograph signing.

But the most unique sighting is upon the right calf of Phoenix resident Jeff Thompson.

“If I was to get [a tattoo], it had to be something I believed in and meant a lot to me,” Thompson explains. “Bret Hart has always symbolized never quitting, to never stop. Every time I look at it, that’s what I think of.”

Five years after taking the ultimate step in fanhood in 2005, Thompson too approaches The Grandest Stage of Them All. After showing Bret the Hit Man-inspired ink on his leg, Thompson undoubtedly fulfilled a longtime dream, leaving him with just one more wish.

“I really hope that Bret puts Vince McMahon in The Sharpshooter on Sunday,” Thompson emphatically adds.

A REAL “GLASS” ACT, 1:30 P.M.
Daniel Flores-Salazar was around six years old when he first watched Bret “Hit Man” Hart step through a curtain to perform like very few have been able to in the history of sports-entertainment. Now 24, he’s come from Fresno, Calif., to Phoenix with a rare pair of The Hit Man’s foil shades to experience an event he still cannot believe is going to happen.

“Bret’s my favorite wrestler ever,” explains the excited California native, clutching the freshly autographed neon sunglasses. “[The sunglasses] are part of what made Bret so cool. He had a cool look to him. It was part of the character that made him awesome.”

“I came to WrestleMania to see Bret Hart,” he proudly details. “Something I never thought would happen would be to see Bret Hart back in WWE, let alone at WrestleMania. I knew I was coming to WrestleMania. I knew … I had to be there.”

DEVIL MAY CRY, 1:10 P.M.
Hit Man Hart: Wrestling with Shadows, the acclaimed documentary of Bret Hart’s final year in WWE more than a decade ago, captures an unrelenting pink light in the darkest of hours.

Chronicling a tumultuous end to Hart’s relationship with WWE and its Chairman, the newly released DVD (which was only removed from shipment cases less than two hours earlier) is in the clutches of nearly everyone present at the autograph signing.

Amid vintage t-shirts, leather bomber jackets, steel chairs and more, many fans ask Bret to sign their copy of the DVD. Hart gladly obliges, finding another opportunity to jest at Mr. McMahon’s expense. Or, as some might suggest, aptly characterize him.

THE BEST (BUY) THERE IS, 12:44 P.M.
Hart’s car stops in the barren rear entrance of Best Buy in Avondale, Ariz. Bret is met by Philip Kelly, store general manager, and his beaming staff who are fortunate enough to have been scheduled today for the arrival of The Excellence of Execution. While Hart is the center of attention for a brief meet-and-greet with the store’s employees, a throng of nearly 800 people of all ages line up outside to meet The “Hit Man.”

“They asked if I’d be interested in having Bret do a signing at the store,” explains Best Buy’s Kelly. “I responded, ‘Why would you even ask?’”

TRAILBLAZING, 12:07 P.M. PT
The “Hit Man” emerges from his hotel and into the daylight just past noon. There is a detectable confidence in The Excellence of Execution that’s somewhat stronger than the day before, just as it was slightly more discernible yesterday than the day before that. And he’s now one Hart richer: His 21-year-old daughter, Sabina (“Beans”).

The two, along with Bret’s youngest son Blade, approach a car manned by a driver who’s appropriately garbed in black dress shirt and a sleekly contrasting pink necktie. It’s a clear homage to his legendary passenger.

SUITE TALKER, 11:59 A.M.
The “Hit Man” must have so much weighing on his mind at this moment. In his hotel suite, Bret Hart is hurriedly gathering the key items he will need for the day and, more importantly, for the WWE Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Later in the night, The Excellence of Execution – along with his siblings – will cross the stage of Dodge Theatre and deliver one of the most important speeches of his life when he inducts his father Stu into the Hall of Fame.

But first, Bret will engage in the third autograph signing in two days elsewhere in Phoenix. He will be cutting it close, so Hart collects his tuxedo, tie, cufflinks and a small black notebook. One look at the clock and The Hit Man is ready to roll out, reaching for his leather shoes on the way toward the door for an emotional day.

FULLY BOOKED, 12:58 P.M.
It’s mid-afternoon and The “Hit Man” is perched atop a stool in the rear of Changing Hands Bookstore, which is known for its celebrity signings – Sarah Palin, Ozzy Osbourne, U.S. President Barack Obama, and now Bret Hart.

Befittingly, the second-generation ring legend is settled at a cross-section between the history and sports bookshelves where he signs copies of his autobiography, My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling. A flurry of flashes emanate from gaps between bookshelves as visitors squeeze their digital cameras between Stephen King’s Needful Things and Thomas Harris’ Red Dragon from the opposite side of the horror section.

Traces of conversations linger: “… You and Jim against The Killer Bees …” or “…When you faced Owen in ’94 here in Phoenix …”

As they meet and greet The Hit Man, fans of literally every age recall instances in which excellence entered their lives. Their shared memories are tokens of appreciation toward Bret, who is deeply humbled by the outpouring.

BRET MEETS BRET, 1:38 P.M.
The entire Sajovie family approaches The Excellence of Execution and the excited parents, Trina Lynn and Dennis, introduce their awe spun children to Bret. There’s 12-year-old Tiffani and 9-year-old Bret, who is, in fact, named after The “Hit Man.”

“My husband and I couldn’t decide on a name for our son and we were both big fans of Bret Hart,” Trina says. “We broke the stalemate and decided to name our son after Bret Hart, my husband’s favorite wrestler.”

As the young Bret explains, it was the chance of a lifetime to actually meet the person who inspired his namesake.

“It’s awesome because [Bret Hart is] my dad’s idol,” says the 9-year-old, who met The Hart Dynasty the previous night at WrestleMania Axxess and, out of concern for The Hit Man, encouraged them to watch Hart’s back on Sunday against The Chairman.

“[Mr. McMahon has] always been evil and he’s always backstabbed [Hart],” explains the heavy thinking Hit Man fan.

The littler Bret presents seven trading cards from different eras of Hart’s career and The Hit Man signs each. These small artifacts will be split up amongst the Sajovie children when they get home … as long as dad is willing to share. The next night they’ll follow Bret Hart into the University of Phoenix Stadium for The Biggest Spectacle of Them All, where their handmade banners and boisterous hollers from the stands will be the best support they can possibly provide for The Excellence of Execution.

MIRROR HOMAGE, 2:48 P.M.
The book signing reaches the end of the previously vast line and at the back of that line stands Gary Anderson from Coleraine, Ireland. Fully costumed in pink and black with a dark moppy wig, Anderson’s in-character ode to “The Hit Man” brings an instant grin to Hart’s face before he readies to depart Changing Hands Bookstore.

“I’ve come to Phoenix to have a real good time at WrestleMania,” Anderson affirms. “I’ve traveled for 30 hours just to come here. I came here with four friends, all dressed as wrestling icons. And I think I am the best there is, the best there was and the best there ever will be.”

Moments after the flattering sight of his doppelganger, Bret rises from his seat and exits through the rear entrance of the shop, focused on his next event where so many family members await.

“Now I’ve got to wrestle 30 Harts,” jokes The Hit Man, in transit to the 2010 WWE Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
DEAR BRET, 3:23 P.M.
In the electronic age of apps, Tweets and more, it’s a fairly uncommon sight to see a handwritten letter … unless you’re an international icon like Bret Hart.

The “Hit Man” rides to Dodge Theatre where he takes a moment to tear open a padded envelope containing a piece of recently received fan mail. Examining each and every word on the lined paper, Bret reads every last sentence composed by one adoring Hit Man fan. He’ doesn’t skim the message, but rather, Bret absorbs the words within a touching note that perhaps is just one more bit of inspiration before a tremendously significant evening in both his career and his life.

NOTES AND QUOTES, 4:18 P.M.
The defining moment in the Hart family will be the official induction of its patriarch into the WWE Hall of Fame. Less than an hour away from that moment, The “Hit Man” joins a roomful of siblings in the private Hart family dressing room in the backstage halls of Dodge Theatre.

While his brothers and sisters converse and a hockey game plays out on a flatscreen television in the room, Canada’s best tucks himself into a corner where the tuxedo adorned legend consults a spiral bound notebook of handwritten quotes in varying inks. Still piecing together his thoughts for his speech to celebrate Stu Hart’s induction, The Hit Man sits in front of a mirror and its heavy watt bulbs thumbing through a book he says he’s carried with him for more than 15 years, since his days as WWE Champion.

He pens some notes, but only to fortify the many words that will come from his heart in just moments. A Hall of Famer himself, Bret has done this before in 2006 when he was inducted and bestowed with the WWE logo-emblazoned class ring – a symbol of recognition and, naturally, sheer excellence in the squared circle.

FAMILY MATTERS, 5:09 P.M.
Together for a moment to be cherished, the Hart family prepares to take the stage while they – and the rest of the viewing audience – watch a touching video tribute to their dad, Stu.

The “Hit Man” stands with siblings Diana, Ross and Alison, as they marvel at memories lived through with a man who can never be forgotten. They and the rest of the Hart family bear the smiles of a common pride – one that’s validated by their revered last name.

STRAIGHT FROM THE HART, 5:14 P.M.
“He had a heart as big as this room,” proclaims The “Hit Man” from the center of Dodge Theatre’s grandly designed stage, describing his highly respected father.

Flanked by brothers and sisters who grew up under the same roof in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Bret’s sincerity draws the emotion from a crowd that includes rows of WWE Superstars, Divas and fellow Hall of Famers – many of whom were trained and “stretched” by the infamous Stampede Wrestling patriarch. Bret’s anecdotal accounts support so much of the legacy Stu Hart birthed.

“The heart ages last,” The Hit Man emphatically states after a few skyward glimpses. “My father will live on in the WWE Hall of Fame."

A TIGHT SPOT, 8:35 P.M.
The temperature is cool in Bret Hart’s hotel room shortly after his return from the WWE Hall of Fame. Exhaust slows his movements as The “Hit Man” removes his formalwear. He slips off his fine leather shoes and places them next to his nested suitcase, left open on the floor of his suite.

The contents of Hart’s luggage include a very special sight that inspires the profound realization that history is on the brink of an alteration that no one foresaw. Bret’s patented pink and black set of tights glows in the dimly lit room like a beacon illuminating a decade-passed legacy of iconic jousts, championships and a prodigious squared circle mythos.

For anyone who has waited so long to see Bret “Hit Man” Hart in one more match, it’s a “pinch me” moment, but the effects of this vision would require a much stronger jostling.

The dream bout becomes a real-life war in just 24 hours at WrestleMania.

“One more battle,” Bret says, eagerly peering ahead with mild traces of a very humanizing anxiety. Any disquiet, however, is eclipsed by the signature fortitude the world has waited years to cheer once more – an opportunity that they will seize on The Grandest Stage of Them All.

Day Five

CLOSURE 8:12 P.M.
Time mends all wounds. And enough of it has passed to produce the most poignant WrestleMania moment that the world would never see.

Minutes after Shawn Michaels’ career was ended by The Undertaker in the greatest performance to occur at The Show of Shows, The “Hit Man” offers his genuine respect to the man who played an integral role in Bret’s controversial WWE departure years ago.

Smiling in glorious defeat, a humbled and satisfied Michaels graciously embraces Hart’s gesture. Instantly, it becomes even more apparent that, for Bret, this night and this ring resurgence has been about repairing wounds, no matter how deep.

The hatchet was buried as Hart’s first order of business upon returning on Jan. 4, 2010. This is more than that. This is about restoring a connection shared by two peers – former friends – who’ve each ascended to the squared circle’s highest echelon. Serendipitously, tonight has marked the final dance for both men.

On The Grandest Stage of Them All, closure is accomplished for a murky, muddled past for The Hit Man. And while Hart is presently enjoying the emotions wrought by a moment so long in the making, there’s contentment in knowing that “The Best There Ever Will Be” still lies ahead.

THE BEST OF OUTCOMES, 6:17 P.M.
The fears and hopes all culminate with Hart’s arms raised and his proud family rallied behind him, as he exits the ring one last time basking in the truly proper send-off that’s 12 years overdue.

For a man whose celebrated career ended unceremoniously on the wrong end of a reckless kick and whose entire left side was once paralyzed after a fateful accident, this night is a cleansing. Sustaining all the heartache and despair through so much loss, The “Hit Man” has not just survived but more importantly, prevailed.

This has meant more than a championship or crown. Tonight has been about obtaining vindication that’s eluded him for more than a decade. One more match is frankly all it took for the legend of “The Best There Is, The Best There Was and The Best There Ever Will Be” to be tested and proven”

EXCELLENCE OF RETRIBUTION, 6:05 P.M.
The fix was almost in until Mr. McMahon learned that blood is thicker than his wallet. Though he tried to buy the allegiance of the Hart clan against The “Hit Man,” the family not only supported Bret but also got in their own personal licks at WWE’s Chairman. From The Hart Dynasty to Bret’s siblings to the referee (Bret’s brother Bruce), attrition was swift and without mercy on The Grandest Stage of Them All. (Read full story>match results popped in new window!)

After a torrent of roughly a dozen slams with a steel chair – one for each year that Hart spent seething over his final night in WWE – The Excellence of Execution was left with one final action to take.

With an infinite perimeter of camera flashes encapsulating this ultimate moment, Bret seized the legs of his former boss, looking down at the shriveled billionaire bane of his career. Then, the entire stadium suddenly became a time machine with stops at several destinations (Aug. 26, 1991; Oct. 12, 1992; March 20, 1994) as The Hit Man locked McMahon in the hold that yielded his career’s greatest accomplishments: The Sharpshooter.

The WWE Chairman immediately tried to curtail the agony, quickly slamming his hand to the mat in submission on this grand stage of his own vision. But for all the denigration, each jibe and each arrogant grin that accompanied it, Hart held on tight well after the bell signaled his successful conquest.

BEATIN' PATH, 5:48 P.M.
Thirteen years after the pink and black were last represented at WrestleMania, The “Hit Man’s” sunglassed visage appears on the synced multitude of immense screens in the University of Phoenix Stadium and the 72,000 strong simply detonate.

Bret passes through the ropes, spreads the lapels of his leather jacket and raises his arms as if to literally receive the raucous ovation. Not a step is missed in the Hall of Famer’s trademark ring entrance, as he mouths an indiscernible message to the crowd.

It’s just as Hart described earlier in the afternoon before the match.

“[What I say] is different every time I’ve ever walked out,” he revealed hours prior. “Usually, I just say whatever town I’m in, like ‘Hey, San Jose.’ Another one that’s pretty visual is ‘Right on!’ because you can see it but you don’t know what I’m saying.”

THINKING PINK, 4:59 P.M.
As seen in The “Hit Man’s” suitcase less than 24 hours earlier, a pair of hot pink trunks makes its appearance at WrestleMania XXVI. They’re more of a subtle accent to Bret’s battle gear, which is primarily exactly what he wore to the stadium: Denim shorts and t-shirt. Though worn underneath his jean shorts, the signature color associated with his greatest triumphs is most certainly present.

“Hot pink. In the beginning, I was kind of embarrassed to put [the tights] on because they really stood out. They almost burned your eyes,” laughs The Excellence of Execution.

“Years later, when I was WWE Champion, [WWE’s] creative artists drew up new designs and they wanted me to wear gold and black, and capes and all this fancy stuff,” he says, detailing the history of his garments’ shade. “But I liked the color pink.”

“I always said it takes a real man to wear pink,” he proclaims en route toward the match he’s awaited since 1997

TALE OF THE TAPE, 4:16 P.M.
Like riding a bicycle for most people, this particular ritual of taping up his wrists comes back to The “Hit Man” instinctively. Outside in the stadium, WrestleMania XXVI has begun and Hart discusses any doubts – not his own, but those closest to him.

“I know one of my kids was worried for me, but she’s trusts my decision,” Bret reveals. “And one of my brothers protested the whole thing.”

“[But] I think Stu would be happy,” explains The Hit Man, feeling the emotion of the moment. “I think my dad, my mom and even Owen and Davey are up there enjoying every bit of it.”

Hart delves deep into a tender history with an uncanny optimism. More importantly, with this type of inspiration, it seems likely that it’s Mr. McMahon who, in fact, stands no chance in hell.

GAME TIME COMES EARLY, 3:33 P.M.
Montreal is in the periphery of The “Hit Man” on an occasion like this. Admittedly, since he last danced in WWE, The Game has changed in more ways than one. But there also seems to be a change of heart when it comes to Bret and his relationship with Triple H, the best friend of Shawn Michaels since that notorious night in 1997.

Despite their monikers, no weapons are drawn between a Cerebral Assassin and a Hit Man. The Excellence of Execution momentarily compares the magnitude of his bout with that of Triple H, the seemingly impartial son-in-law of Hart’s WrestleMania opponent.

MEET THE PRESS, 2:01 P.M.
The press crowds a large space in a distant wing of the WrestleMania stadium. Seated at the front of a press conference that included Triple H and John Cena at separate moments, Hart now makes the hot seat look much, much cooler.

“For the first 10 or 15 minutes of my music, that pounding will probably match the pounding in my chest,” the legend tells one reporter interested in the effect The Hit Man’s music will have on his emotions.

By now, Bret has already answered the question "what's it going to be like?" At last, The Hit Man’s ready to cease discussing it and actually experience it.

THE STAGE IS SET, 1:39 P.M.
The Harts hang a left off the main hall that snakes around the inner arena of the University of Phoenix Stadium. This turn spills directly out to where history will be made. Bret, his sons and daughter all stand beside The Grandest Stage of Them All, Blade in utter awe of the expanse of its unmatched grandeur.

Days ago, The “Hit Man's” journey brought him to these all-important grounds. But the completed structures on this, the quintessential game day are enough to leave the WWE Hall of Famer impressed but also certain that his choice to return at this moment at this event was the right one.


THEN AND NOW, 1:21 P.M.
The “Hit Man” and his children arrive at the venue in which Hart’s long venerated career will be ultimately reignited. In the halls of the University of Phoenix Stadium, past meets present as Bret is welcomed by fellow Canadian and former World Champion Edge.

Exactly twenty years ago, The Rated-R Superstar watched The Hart Foundation explode through The Bolsheviks in 19 seconds to set a WrestleMania record in Toronto’s SkyDome.

Perhaps never in his wildest imagination did Edge think as a youth back in 1990 that he would one day compete in the World Heavyweight Title Match at the same WrestleMania hosting The Hit Man’s reemergence, his one final match.

The five-time WWE Champion provides ample Hall of Fame advice to The Rated-R Superstar before he combats Chris Jericho for the championship in hours to come. Perhaps this is the support the No. 1 contender needed to recapture the lustrous gold prize. A Spear couldn’t hurt, either.

ALL ABOARD, 12:35 P.M.
The vessel toward The “Hit Man’s” destiny is a sleek limousine, which fills up with Bret’s children, Dallas, Blade and Sabina (“Beans”). The Excellence of Execution advances to the stretch vehicle, but his attention is briefly diverted by a valet.

The red shirted hotel employee creeps up to Bret to offer some selective advice, encouraging The Hit Man to essentially connect the sole of his Air Jordan with The WWE Chairman’s pinstripe suited rump (in far more direct vernacular). With good spirits now only further bolstered, The Excellence of Execution steps in for the ride he’s been waiting to take for 12 long years.

TALKING ABOUT TONIGHT, TONIGHT, 12:19 P.M.
A serendipitous meeting between two mutual friends – both artists – occurs in the hotel lobby, just prior to The “Hit Man’s” departure to the University of Phoenix Stadium. Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins peeks over to see Bret Hart surrounded by his children and approaches the ring legend to offer words of encouragement heading into WrestleMania XXVI.

Corgan, a longtime WWE fan and huge Hit Man loyalist, inquires about how Bret is feeling.

“Did you get a good night’s sleep?” Corgan asks The Excellence of Execution.

There is plenty of concern this morning, but more so, people simply want to ensure that, one way or another, the pink and black exacts the sweetest tasting revenge at the greatest dosage ever served in WWE history.

THE DAY HAS COME, 11:49 A.M. PT
When Bret “Hit Man” Hart’s eyes slowly opened this morning, The Excellence of Execution had one thing on his mind.

“Just to be safe out there, safe and smart,” Hart reveals. “I feel pretty good.”

After his 2002 stroke, there is a lot for Hart to have reservations about. Especially with the maniacal, underhanded WWE Chairman as his opposition, these WrestleMania waters are frankly hazardous. But he’ll be as safe as he possibly can be. Assuming he finds a cup of coffee.

Bret jests of a conspiracy contrived by Mr. McMahon to deprive The Hit Man of some day-starting caffeine, giving The Chairman an advantage.

“Are you ready?” asks Bret’s daughter, Sabina, looking up at her dad. He nods to confirm his preparedness and the grave expression on his face says that he’s more than ready.