In a recent episode of the “Something to Wrestle” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield (JBL) offered high praise for one of the most unexpected success stories in WWE of the last 20 years. During a special “Ask JBL Anything” show, the wrestling legend was asked to name a wrestler whose career surpassed his initial expectations. Without hesitation, JBL singled out The Miz as the standout performer.
The Miz (Michael Mizanin), first rose to fame as a reality TV personality on MTV’s “The Real World” before venturing into the world of WWE. His journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and JBL’s comments highlight the unique challenges The Miz faced and ultimately conquered.
The Miz. No doubt about it. When he came in, and not because Miz didn’t have talent because he did, but how do you learn on global TV? That’s impossible.
What sets The Miz apart, according to JBL, is the fact that he had to learn the ins-and-outs of pro wrestling in front of a worldwide audience. This stands in stark contrast to the traditional path most wrestlers follow, which typically involves years of training and performing in smaller promotions before making it to the big leagues.
Drawing from his own experience, JBL emphasised the significant difference in their career trajectories.
You know, by the time I got to WWE, I probably had about a thousand matches. Most of the guys did. Miz is having to learn without that educational background of having to work in a bunch of territories and all those things we got to do.
Despite these formidable obstacles, The Miz has managed to construct what JBL describes as a “Hall of Fame career.” From his debut on WWE’s main roster in 2006 to becoming a Grand Slam Champion, The Miz has consistently defied his critics and exceeded expectations.
He has built a Hall of Fame career from that moment, and I think that’s incredibly remarkable because he didn’t have that background that we had.
The Miz’s journey from reality TV star to respected WWE superstar and potential future Hall of Famer serves as an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers and entertainers alike. As The Miz continues to perform at a high level in WWE, his journey remains a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to one’s craft.
WWE Hall Of Famer Says The Miz “Went Through Hell” With Bullying Early In His Career
WWE Hall of Famer Bubba Ray Dudley opened up about the harsh bullying The Miz faced during his early days with the company, describing the experience as akin to “going through hell”, but how The Miz overcame these challenges to establish himself as one of WWE’s most successful stars.
H/t to TJRWrestling.net