What If Hulk Hogan Transferred Over to Bret Hart in 1993 Instead of Yokozuna?
The professional wrestling landscape in 1993 was a tumultuous time for WWF, with wrestlers bringing diverse styles and charisma to the ring. What if Hulk Hogan had chosen to directly transfer over to Bret Hart instead of the legendaryConsulta Ramos de Yokozuna? This scenario could have significantly altered the trajectories of these wrestlers' careers and the overall WWF landscape. Let's explore several potential implications of this scenario.
1. Bret Hart's Rise to Prominence
Immediate Push
Victory over Hulk Hogan would have solidified Bret Hart's status as a main event player. A clean win could have positioned him as the top face of the company, leading to a more prominent role in storytelling.
Character Development
Known for his technical wrestling skills and his refined persona, a win over Hogan might have further developed Hart's character, setting him up as a future long-term mainstay for the WWF.
2. Hulk Hogan's Legacy
Changing Perception
Often criticized for not putting over younger talent, a transfer to Bret Hart might have shifted Hogan's legacy to be more favorable among fans and critics who valued talent development and the elevation of the next generation.
Final Run
Hogan's departure from WWF could have been framed as a selfless act, helping to establish a new era in wrestling. This might have softened the blow of his exit for fans, setting a positive tone for the company's future.
3. Impact on Yokozuna
Delayed Push
A potential shift in the main event push for Yokozuna might have delayed or altered his rise to the top. Instead of winning the title at WrestleMania IX, his character development and future storylines could have been less emphasized.
Different Rivalries
With Hart in the main event, Yokozuna might have found himself in different types of rivalries, impacting his run as champion later, and potentially leading to new and innovative match-ups.
4. WWF's Business and Direction
Shift in Focus
The WWF could have shifted its focus towards more technical and in-ring storytelling, aligning with the growing popularity of wrestling styles that emphasized athleticism and intricate in-ring action.
Long-term Planning
This scenario might have led to a more gradual transition to the Attitude Era, as Bret Hart could have been positioned to lead the company into a new direction. It might have influenced how other wrestlers were booked, ensuring a balance between established stars and emerging talent.
5. Fan Reactions
Mixed Reactions
There would have been mixed reactions from the fan base. While some fans would have embraced the idea of Hart as the champion, others might have been nostalgic for Hogan. The overall reaction could have been nuanced depending on how the storyline was presented.
Increased Loyalty
Hart's victory over Hogan could have increased his loyalty among fans, setting the stage for a strong and dedicated fan base that would support him through the mid-1990s and beyond.
Overall, if Hulk Hogan had transferred over to Bret Hart in 1993 instead of Yokozuna, it could have led to a more dynamic and competitive wrestling environment in the WWF. This shift might have established Hart as a cornerstone of the promotion and paved the way for future stars, shaping the overall narrative of professional wrestling during that era. The evolution of storylines, rivalries, and the wrestling world as a whole could have been significantly altered, opening up new possibilities for the future of the sport.