WWE legend Bret Hart’s eldest brother Smith dies aged 68 after lengthy cancer battle
The Hitman's family in mourning after older sibling finally loses his long fight with illness
WWE legend Bret Hart is in mourning today after his eldest brother Smith died after a battle with cancer.
The oldest sibling of the Hart family sadly passed on Sunday aged 68.
And his death came just 24 hours after former world champion Bret had celebrated his 60th birthday.
Former WWE wrestler David Hart Smith, the nephew of the late Smith, confirmed the news online.
And the former grappler’s own Facebook page also posted a message confirming his passing.
He was the oldest of 12 children in the Hart wrestling family.
Smith wrestled professionally throughout the 1970s, 80s and 90s, making several appearances in the WWF – WWE’s original name.
He also appeared at WrestleMania 26 alongside his brother Bret.
WWE Statement on Smith Hart
"WWE is saddened to learn that Smith Hart, member of the storied Hart wrestling family and uncle of WWE Superstar Natalya, has passed away at age 68.
"The oldest of the 12 Hart family children, Smith made a notable name for himself in the sports-entertainment industry around the globe. Throughout the 1970s and '80s Smith competed across Japan, the National Wrestling Alliance and his father's homegrown Canadian promotion, Stampede Wrestling.
"Smith also made several memorable WWE appearances throughout his career, most notably at WrestleMania XXVI when he assisted his brother, WWE Hall of Famer Bret "Hit Man" Hart, in Bret's No Holds Barred Match against Mr. McMahon.
"WWE extends its condolences to Smith’s family, friends and fans."
MORE WRESTLING NEWS
The Hitman was joined by his family at ringside as he wrestled Vince McMahon at the 2010 extravaganza.
It appears that Smith had been predicting his death for a number of months now judging by his social media postings.
One particular image seemed telling back in January.
He posted the snap of him at his young brother Owen’s grave site alongside the caption: “Thought I’d visit Owen today. I’ll see you soon brother.”
Owen Hart tragically died at a WWE pay-per-view back in 1999.
An equipment malfunction saw him tumble from the roof of the arena into the ring, with the injuries he sustained killing him.
