WWE introduced the Hardcore Championship in November 1998 with Mick Foley awarded the title based on his reputation as a hardcore wrestling legend. The title was contested under “Hardcore” rules meaning there were no disqualifications, no count-outs, and pinfalls counted anywhere. Initially, it was treated as a midcard title but would become a comedy title once Crash Holly won it in February 2000, and the 24/7 rule was introduced, which resulted in frequent title changes with Raven winning it 27 times. Even our own Chris Jericho held the title, albeit briefly in 2001, after defeating Big Show for it but losing it a few minutes later when he was speared by Rhyno on the entrance ramp and pinned.
Now WWE is taking us back to the Attitude Era by releasing a replica of the clearly recognizable belt on WWE Shop, costing $449.99 and shipping from September 1st.
In what was believed to be accurate for many years, fans thought the Hardcore Championship belt was the WWF Championship belt that Mr. Perfect had smashed with a hammer on Saturday Night’s Main Event in November 1989 feuding with Hulk Hogan. This story was later debunked when it came out the destroyed belt had been in the possession of former ring announcer Mel Phillips, who sold it to a private collector in 2007. Therefore the Hardcore Championship belt was most likely a replica title purposely destroyed and pieced back together.
