5 ways WWE can make the 24/7 title the best part of its programming
The announcement of the spiritual successor to the old WWF Hardcore Championship, the new 24/7 Championship, went over like a wet balloon, with the title's appearance being maligned, and the first segment flat, but it's already exceeding expectations. Even the cheap appearance is part of its appeal. Why would a silly title like this look prestigious? It's that irony that makes for great comedy.
The real appeal of this 24/7 Championship is that it breaks up WWE's monotonic programming. For years now, every Raw and SmackDown has felt more or less the same. There was an overlong opening promo, some mostly meaningless matches with formulaic booking, and maybe one other skit or segment.
The 24/7 title brings a much-needed break to that format. It's already shown that on Raw and SmackDown. Currently, both of the highest rated YouTube clips of this week's respective red and blue shows involve the 24/7 title. R-Truth's title win in the parking lot is even slightly leading Brock Lesnar's appearance with the Money in the Bank briefcase.
The company has a potential winner on their hands, but they can't be complacent. Here's how the 24/7 title can be made an effective part of WWE's programming.
#1 Avoid changing the title too frequently
The biggest irony is that the 24/7 title's key selling point is also its greatest danger. The belt being on the line all the time is what makes for wild scenarios, but if this stipulation is abused, and the title changes hands all the time, multiple times a night, it will get little enthusiasm, and fans will respond apathetically.
Instead, each title holder should have a miniature story arc until the title changes hands in a wild way.
Fortunately, the company has gotten off on the right foot in this regard. The title changed hands three times on Monday night, but R-Truth has kept it since then. He spent an entire episode of SmackDown with Carmella trying to "disguise" himself. It was a major selling point throughout the show, making it engaging throughout and breaking up the usual monotony. R-Truth successfully remained champion by the end of the night.
Those are the kinds of scenarios where the title is best used. R-Truth's run wacky should continue for a little while longer. He can help to establish the tone for the new title.