After Dark: The Montreal Screwjob (Part 1)

New to Wrestling Podcast

Kelsey Silva and Xavier, hosts of the New to Wrestling podcast, dive into the infamous Montreal Screwjob in this After Dark episode. They analyze the Dark Side of the Ring documentary and a Broken Skull Sessions interview with Bret Hart, offering their perspectives on the controversial event. The hosts discuss the complex dynamics between Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, and Vince McMahon, as well as the lasting impact on key figures like referee Earl Hebner.

The episode explores the lead-up to the Screwjob, including contract negotiations and backstage tensions. Kelsey and Xavier debate the various theories surrounding the incident, including whether it was a work or a genuine betrayal. They also touch on the aftermath, including Bret Hart's brief stint in WCW and the birth of Vince McMahon's on-screen character.

Throughout the discussion, the hosts provide insightful commentary on wrestling culture, the blurring of kayfabe, and the long-term consequences of the Montreal Screwjob on the wrestling industry. They balance their analysis with personal reactions and humorous asides, creating an engaging and informative exploration of this pivotal moment in wrestling history.

Timestamps:

• 0:00 Intro
• 0:08 Montreal Screw Job Discussion
• 6:15 Dark Side of the Ring episode: Bret Hart's dedication to wrestling
• 9:36 Bret Hart's Era Transition
• 14:58 Wrestling Championships: Bret becomes champion in Saskatoon
• 19:56 WCW and Bret Hart's Contract
• 24:22 Bret and Shawn's Rivalry
• 28:36 Contract and belt controversy
• 32:42 Trust and Respect in Wrestling
• 38:07 Earl's Role in the Screw Job
• 41:55 Secret Meeting Audio: Bret's private meeting with Vince
• 46:21 The Longest Walk of My Life: Earl's challenging decision
• 51:39 Montreal Screwjob Aftermath: Bret's reaction
• 55:30 Vince Russo's Regret
• 1:00:25 Vince and Bret's Confrontation
• 1:03:33 Vince's Uppercut Story
• 1:08:26 Referee's Role Complexity
• 1:12:45 Critique of WWE's handling of talent
• 1:17:09 Critique of Eric Bischoff's Legacy
• 1:22:14 Scott Hall's perspective on a wrestling event
• 1:29:13 Impact of exposing the wrestling business
• 1:31:25 Episode Conclusion: Jim Cornette and Vince Russo's feud

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!