Meeting Bret The Hitman Hart

During my years as a radio personality and later as a podcaster, I've conversed with and met many musicians, wrestlers and fighters. Still, my favourite experience remains when I met one of my heroes, Bret Hart.

Upon the release of his best-selling book, Hitman: My Real Life In The Cartoon World of Wrestling, Bret embarked on a book tour across Canada. My good friend Kyle and I met the man we revere as the most outstanding in-ring performer of all time and a key figure who shaped our love of pro-wrestling.

We shook hands when I finally approached the table, and he asked for my name. By the way, I'm never star-struck, but I was on that given day.

• Him: "Hi, what's your name?"

• Me: "I'm Chris. Bret, I just wanted to take this moment to tell you how much I appreciate everything you gave to professional wrestling. You're my hero and the greatest to ever step into the squared circle."

• Him: "Thanks, Chris. That means a lot to hear that."

• Me: "Hopefully, one day we can sit and chat about the masterpieces you painted."

• Him: *Smiles* "You never know"

The Hitman signed a copy of his book, which is incredibly detailed, revealing and undeniably brilliant, then we parted ways. His autobiography soon became a personal favourite of mine.

It was memorable but an all too brief encounter. Perhaps one day, Bret and I can sit and finally have that long-awaited conversation.

Note: The photo captured was from over 12 years ago.