10 Fascinating WWE Royal Rumble 1997 Facts
7. Mr. Hughes' Comeback Lasted Barely A Week
After Mr. Perfect left the company in November 1996, Hunter Hearst Helmsley did without a ringside presence until the January 1997 Royal Rumble. There, the imposing Curtis Hughes, better known simply as Mr. Hughes, made a surprise return after three-and-a-half years, working as Helmsley's combination butler/bodyguard.
The return was short-lived. Hughes' appearances with Helmsley barely lasted a week before he was suddenly hospitalized with heart and kidney issues, winding up in intensive care. Hughes would later drastically lose weight, but wouldn't be seen again in WWE until 1999.
To replace Hughes, just four weeks after the pay-per-view, Joanie Lauer made her debut as Chyna. This time, Helmsley had an ally that would last, and the two would both rise to stardom on the merits of their coalition.