Owen James Hart, a renowned Canadian professional and amateur wrestler, made a lasting impact in the world of sports entertainment. Throughout his illustrious career, he had the privilege of working for several prominent promotions, including Stampede Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling, World Championship Wrestling, and most notably, WWE.
Born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Hart was the youngest of 12 children to the illustrious Stu Hart, a legendary promoter and WWE Hall of Famer, and his wife Helen Hart. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the world of professional wrestling, Hart was destined for greatness.
Throughout his career, Hart accumulated an impressive array of accolades, including a one-time USWA Unified World Heavyweight Championship, two-time WWE Intercontinental Championship, one-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship, one-time WWE European Champion, and a remarkable four-time WWE World Tag Team Champion. He also emerged victorious in the 1994 WWE King of the Ring tournament.
Although he never managed to capture the coveted WWE Championship, Hart consistently competed for the title on multiple occasions, showcasing his exceptional skills and earning the respect of his peers. Many of his contemporaries have gone on to praise Hart as one of the most talented professional wrestlers in WWE history.
Tragedy struck on May 23, 1999, when an equipment malfunction occurred during Hart's entrance from the rafters of Kemper Arena in Kansas City, Missouri, at WWE's Over the Edge pay-per-view event. This devastating incident claimed the life of the beloved wrestler, leaving a lasting impact on the world of professional wrestling and the lives of those who knew and admired him.