WWE Loyalty Has an Expiration Date: Nash, Hart, and the Future of Wrestling Legends
The perceived value of a wrestling legend isn’t static – it’s a fluctuating currency determined by relationships, history, and, increasingly, a willingness to play ball. Recent comments from Kevin Nash on his “Kliq This” podcast, responding to Bret “Hitman” Hart’s claims of disrespect at SummerSlam, expose a growing rift between WWE and its past stars, a rift that signals a potentially seismic shift in how wrestling treats its icons.
The SummerSlam Snub and a Pattern of Disregard
Hart publicly stated he was told a seat would be available for him at SummerSlam, only to find none upon arrival. Nash confirmed he, too, anticipated a lack of seating, having stopped attending WWE events due to similar treatment. He recounted being relegated to a poorly equipped “box” with a malfunctioning monitor, forced to watch the show from a distance. This wasn’t an isolated incident, according to Nash, who also heard that **WWE** Hall of Famer The Undertaker was similarly relegated to a TV room. The core issue isn’t about entitlement, but a perceived devaluation of contributions to the company’s success.
The WCW Factor: A Debt Never Forgotten
Nash believes a key factor in this treatment stems from his and Hart’s decisions to leave WWE for WCW during the Monday Night Wars. “Bret has to realize that he f—— left and went to WCW… I put on the gray, I understand that,” Nash stated. This highlights a lingering resentment within WWE towards those who defected, suggesting a long-held grudge impacts current recognition. It raises a critical question: does loyalty to a company supersede decades of in-ring performance and fan adoration? The answer, increasingly, appears to be yes, at least within the current WWE structure.
Beyond Seating Charts: The Broader Implications for Wrestling Legends
This isn’t simply about comfortable seats at SummerSlam. It’s about control of narrative and the diminishing influence of wrestling’s past. WWE, under Triple H, is actively building its own future, and the stories of the past are being subtly rewritten or, in some cases, sidelined. This trend isn’t unique to WWE; it mirrors a broader pattern in entertainment where legacy acts are often viewed as liabilities rather than assets. However, in wrestling, the connection to the past is arguably more vital than in other forms of entertainment, as the history *is* the product.
Karrion Kross & Scarlett: A Symptom of a Larger Problem
Nash also touched upon the contract issues surrounding Karrion Kross and Scarlett. While details were limited, it underscores a pattern of WWE mismanaging talent, even those with significant potential. This mismanagement, coupled with the perceived disrespect towards established legends, creates a climate of uncertainty and fuels speculation about the company’s long-term vision. It’s a signal to current and future stars: loyalty isn’t guaranteed to be reciprocated.
The Future of Wrestling’s Relationship with its History
The situation unfolding at WWE isn’t just about bruised egos; it’s a potential turning point. We may be witnessing the beginning of a new era where wrestling legends are treated as external entities, consulted only when convenient, and largely excluded from the inner circle. This could lead to a fracturing of the wrestling community, with former stars increasingly aligning with alternative promotions or focusing on independent ventures. The rise of AEW, with its emphasis on honoring wrestling history, provides a viable alternative for those feeling marginalized. Wrestling Inc. provides further coverage of this developing story.
Ultimately, WWE’s treatment of its legends will define its legacy. Will it be remembered as a company that celebrated its past, or one that discarded it in pursuit of a new, potentially unsustainable, future? The answer will be written not in championship reigns, but in the seating arrangements at future events.
What are your predictions for the future of wrestling legends and their relationship with WWE? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
