The Kirk Trophy, named after David Kirk, captain of the New Zealand team that won the first official Rugby World Cup in 1987, represents a dynamic version of the Rugby World Champion title.
 

Unlike the traditional four-year cycle of the Rugby World Cup, this virtual title operates much like the championship in boxing, always at stake. Any team that defeats the current champion in an official match between national teams claims the Kirk Trophy and the title of World Champion. 
 

In essence, the Kirk Trophy transforms being Rugby World Champion into a real-time challenge. The title is constantly defended making every game a battle for the crown.

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​Victories decided in extra time count, while draws allow the current champion to retain the trophy. Non-national teams, such as the British & Irish Lions, Barbarians or Pacific Islanders are excluded from contention.