Simplify the following text for a Grade 13 native English-speaking person.
Original: The WWF European Championship , as it was then known , emerged in 1997 when The British Bulldog became the first Champion after winning a tournament that was held over several shows in Germany , culminating in a finals victory over Owen Hart .
Simplified: The first and longest reigning champion , The British Bulldog became the first Champion after winning a tournament that was held over several shows in Germany , culminating in a finals victory over Owen Hart .