Back in the late 90s, amidst the crotch-chopping antics of the Attitude Era, another trend was sweeping its way through the WWE. Between February 1997 and November 1998, the powers that be added three new championships to the company roster. The first belt in question was the European title, brought into play when the British Bulldog beat Owen Hart in an absolute classic in Berlin, Germany. Ten months later, the WWE would adopt another belt, this time the Light-Heavyweight title in a muddled attempt to capitalise on the rise of WCWs Cruiserweight division. But while those two belts were built on a sturdy set of rules and regulations, the third and final title was most certainly not. Awarded to Mankind for his suicidal style, the Hardcore Championship was like none before it. Each bout was contested under a unique blend of rules; no disqualification, no count-outs, no holds barred and falls count anywhereyou name it, anything was legal in the world of Hardcore. And as if that wasnt enough, an extra stipulation was later added to the fray. The 24/7 rule, sanctioned in February 2000, meant that the belt would be up for grabs in any place and at any timeliterally. This chaotic blend of unorthodox rules created not only a source of great entertainment, but a whole host of stats, facts and figures that often beggar belief. This article takes a look at some of the most noteworthy trivia that the Hardcore Championship provided us with, starting with the record for most title wins in total.
