Rob Van Dam Explains Why WWE Got Rid Of The Hardcore Championship

WWE Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam shared his thoughts on his role in the retirement of the Hardcore Championship, a title revered by fans for its unpredictable, no-holds-barred action.

Speaking on his podcast, 1 Of A Kind, Rob Van Dam suggested that his contributions to the championship’s popularity may have been the reason for its demise.

I made that belt mean way more than they ever wanted it to. That’s why they got rid of it.

The Hardcore Championship debuted in 1998 when Vince McMahon presented Mankind with a patched-together, broken belt. Initially seen as a novelty, the title quickly gained a cult following thanks to its chaotic stipulations, including the famous 24/7 rule that allowed matches to happen anytime and anywhere.

RVD’s reign as Hardcore Champion in 2001 elevated the title to new heights. Known for his high-flying, innovative style, Van Dam redefined what the championship represented, defending it in electrifying matches that showcased his unique talent. His run with the belt became a highlight of its history, bringing significant attention and prestige to the title.

However, Van Dam believes that his success may have outshined the company’s original intentions for the championship. In 2002, the Hardcore Championship was officially retired when Van Dam unified it with the Intercontinental Championship, ending its four-year legacy. The title remains a beloved part of WWE’s history, remembered for its chaotic energy and unforgettable moments.

Why Was Rob Van Dam Disappointed By His WWE Hall Of Fame Induction?

Rob Van Dam spoke about why he was disappointed with his WWE Hall of Fame induction and said that because his induction took place in 2021 when COVID-19 restrictions were still in place, meant that there was no crowd present when he was inducted into the Hall of Fame which he found disappointing. RVD also wasn’t impressed with the fact WWE told him he could only have three to five minutes for his induction speech when in the past other inductees had much longer speeches.

H/t to ITRWrestling.com