WWEs Over The Edge pay-per-view event on May 23, 1999, will always be remembered for the unfortunate passing of Owen Hart. Hart passed away when the equipment lowering him from the rafters malfunctioned, causing him to fall into the ring.
Despite the horrific accident and the confirmation of Owens death, Vince McMahon made the decision to continue the show, a choice that has been heavily criticized over the years and Jim Ross also stating that Vince never regretted the way he handled the situation.
Vince McMahon explained his rationale in the Netflix docuseries Mr. McMahon, stating that the audience, thankfully, did not witness the fall due to the lights being dimmed at the time. The former WWE Chairman felt that since the crowd had not directly seen the accident, they had come to see a show, and as a businessman, his instinct was to carry on. McMahon also expressed that if the roles had been reversed, and if he or even his son had been in Owens position, he would have wanted the show to continue.
Furthermore, Vince McMahon acknowledged the backlash, particularly from Owens brother Bret Hart, but stood by his decision, saying he would want the show to go on even if it had been him in Owens place. McMahon also addressed the legal settlement with Owens widow, Martha Hart, noting that it was later revealed the equipment used during the stunt was defective, which led WWE to pursue legal action against the manufacturer.
This incident remains one of the most heartbreaking and controversial moments in professional wrestling history. However, Owen Harts legacy continues to live through his family in wrestling, and the impact he left on the fans felt to this day.
What are your thoughts on Vince McMahon handling the Owen Hart situation the way he did back in the day? Do you think he made the right decision to let the show continue after Owens death? Sound off in the comments!
