Early1996 WWF Popularity

> Hi Scott,
>
> 1995 is often cited as the worst year ever for WWE. But between January and April/May of 1996 there was a sudden spike of popularity for them.
> The Royal Rumble drew a staggering (at the time) buy rate and house shows went through the roof, including some sold out madison square garden shows.
>
> What led to the jump in numbers during this time period?
>
> Cheers

Bret Hart getting hot as champion with Shawn Michaels heating up underneath at the same time, basically. Not really a mystery.