WWE CEO Vince McMahon recently appeared on the Roddy Piper documentary for A&E. The biography was a look at the career of the celebrated performer from the 80s onwards.
During his time on the documentary, Vince McMahon discussed exactly what he looks for in a ‘heel’ character. With Piper being one of the greatest ever, it’s fair to say that he’s a pretty good blueprint for modern performers to follow.
‘When you look for attributes of a bad guy, you have to be fearless” Vince McMahon said on the A&E biography. “You have to have the gift of gab.”
Vince McMahon on Heels
“You have to be able to say anything that you want, even though you know it’s going to be controversial” McMahon continued. “You have to have a certain attitude about you. Roddy had all of that and more.”
Many modern performers have said how much of an influence Roddy Piper has had on their career. Some of these have gone on to have huge careers in WWE or beyond. CM Punk was one of the names that frequently praised ‘Rowdy’ as an influence on his heel persona.
MJF is another one of the modern day performers that lists Roddy Piper as an influence. With what Vince McMahon said about what he looks for in a heel, he may well be looking at Maxwell Jacob Friedman, as he has all the attributes needed and more. Although at this point MJF looks VERY happy with his position in AEW.
credit to Fightful for the transcription
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