The Miz has achieved a new level of consistency in his WWE career. Over time, he has perfected his villainous character while keeping an authentic intensity with the audience. However, fans have grown to appreciate Michael Mizanin’s dedication, which has made playing the bad guy more challenging than before.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, The Miz revealed, “I’ve been a babyface a few times. It’s hard to be a babyface, given the superstar character,” highlighting how it’s become tougher to influence fans’ opinions. He noted that even when he leaves a match, fans show respect despite knowing his heel persona.
He added, “I’m still like this these days, even if it’s just a huge, huge babyface, but for the last six months to a year, I go out and say, ‘I’m the bad guy,’ and then I’m like, ‘Well, I’m not really the bad guy anymore.'” Regardless of his actions or how villainous he plays, the fans seem to continue loving him.
The Miz adjusted not only his character but also his in-ring style, choosing to respond to the crowd’s energy rather than force heel animosity. “My goal right now is just to get everyone excited about the game,” he said. Additionally, he admitted that other reasons influenced his choice to engage with fans more positively, saying, “I know it sounds very selfish, but that’s The Miz. I’m literally going to do what I think this crowd needs and do whatever I have to do to get them to the best point I can, whether they cheer me on or boo me.”
[If using quotes, credit Sports Illustrated and Wrestling Inc. for transcription.]
Fan Take: This insight into The Miz’s evolving character reveals how WWE superstars must constantly adapt to fan dynamics, showing the complexity of being a successful heel. For WWE fans, it means storylines could become more nuanced, blurring traditional lines of hero and villain, which keeps the sport fresh and unpredictable.
