Sword-swallower sets world record

WA's self-proclaimed "king of the carnies" Matty Blade has set a Guinness world record by swallowing 21 swords simultaneously at the Perth Tattoo Expo this afternoon

A heavily inked-up crowd fell silent as Blade swallowed a tube of lubricant, donned a pirate hat and dark glasses and, after a false start, down 21 swords, 13mm-wide and 45cm-long, simultaneously.

Scroll down to see the photo of Blade swallowing the swords

The death-defying feat saw Blade win back the world title from upstart NSW stuntman Chayne "The Space Cowboy" Hultgren, who ended the Perth champion's 7½ year reign at the top for swallowing 14 swords by downing 17 swords in 2008 and 18 swords in February this year.

Blade, a popular Fremantle street performer who swallowed his first sword professionally 16 years ago after being taught by a native American, said today's stunt was by far the stupidest thing he'd ever done.

"You know that expression live by the sword, die by the sword? That's not just an expression," he said. "I've nearly killed myself twice doing this."

Blade, whose swords were above Guinness regulation minimum size, said he thought his record would "never be beaten".

"But if it is, I'll come back and swallow more swords," he said.

The new champion, who was having trouble talking after his incredible feat, said he was going to celebrate his victory with a well-earned beer.

Matty Blade swallows 21 swords during his world record attempt today. Picture: Mal Fairclough