Owen Hart (1965–1999) was a Canadian professional wrestler and a member of the famous Hart wrestling family. He was widely respected for his technical wrestling ability, charisma, and versatility in the ring. Here’s a detailed overview of his life and career: Full Name: Owen James Hart Born: May 7, 1965, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada Family: The youngest of 12 children of wrestling promoter Stu Hart and Helen Hart. He grew up in the legendary Hart family, known for their contributions to wrestling. Wrestling Legacy: He trained in the infamous "Hart Dungeon," a basement gym where his father trained numerous wrestling stars. Stampede Wrestling (1983–1988) Owen began his career in his family's promotion, Stampede Wrestling, in Calgary. Known for his high-flying style and technical skills, he quickly gained popularity. He won multiple titles, including the Stampede British Commonwealth Mid-Heavyweight Championship. Japan and International Success (1987–1991) Owen gained international exposure wrestling for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) in Japan. In 1988, he became the first non-Japanese wrestler to win the prestigious IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship. World Wrestling Federation (WWF/WWE) 1. Early WWF Stint (1988–1989) Wrestled under the masked persona The Blue Blazer, showcasing his aerial abilities. Left the WWF briefly to further develop his career. 2. Return to WWF (1991–1999) Owen returned as himself and initially formed a tag team with Jim Neidhart, his brother-in-law. Achieved significant success in both singles and tag team divisions. Key Feuds and Achievements: Feud with Bret Hart: One of Owen's most memorable storylines was his rivalry with his brother Bret Hart. It began at the 1993 Survivor Series and culminated in a classic match at WrestleMania X (1994), where Owen defeated Bret in what is considered one of the greatest wrestling matches of all time. The feud continued throughout 1994, including a Steel Cage Match at SummerSlam for the WWF Championship. Tag Team Success: Won the WWF Tag Team Championship multiple times with partners such as Yokozuna, The British Bulldog, and Jeff Jarrett. Intercontinental and European Titles: Two-time WWF Intercontinental Champion. One-time WWF European Champion. "King of the Ring" (1994): Owen won the 1994 King of the Ring tournament, earning the nickname "The King of Harts." Hart Foundation (1997): Became a key member of the faction led by Bret Hart, alongside Jim Neidhart, The British Bulldog, and Brian Pillman. The faction was highly successful but controversial due to its anti-American sentiment storyline. Death and Legacy Tragic Death (May 23, 1999): Owen Hart tragically passed away during the WWF pay-per-view event Over the Edge in Kansas City, Missouri. He was performing a stunt as the "Blue Blazer," where he was to descend into the ring via a harness. A malfunction caused him to fall over 70 feet to the ring, leading to fatal injuries. The event continued after his accident, which remains a controversial decision in wrestling history. Legacy: Owen Hart is remembered as one of the most talented and beloved wrestlers of his era. His death led to increased scrutiny of safety measures in wrestling and entertainment. Personal Life Marriage: Married to Martha Hart in 1989. Children: Two children, Oje and Athena. Life Outside Wrestling: Owen was known for being a family man and had plans to retire from wrestling to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests. Posthumous Honors Despite his contributions, Owen has not been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, reportedly due to his widow Martha Hart’s reluctance, citing the company’s role in his death. Martha Hart established the Owen Hart Foundation, which supports education and community development. AEW Tribute: In 2021, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) partnered with the Owen Hart Foundation to honor his legacy with the Owen Hart Cup tournament. Owen Hart’s incredible talent, sense of humor, and tragic end make him one of the most celebrated and mourned figures in professional wrestling history. #OwenHart #TheKingOfHarts #WrestlingLegend #HartFamily #WWF #BlueBlazer #KingOfTheRing1994 #OverTheEdge1999 #OwenHartFoundation #ProWrestlingHistory #TechnicalWrestling #Wrestlinglcon #HartDungeon #BretVsOwen