So Ziggler might be getting a more main event worthy push by aligning himself with Cena. Of course, this means absolutely nothing as Big E had that same kind of rub and is currently fading into obscurity. Personally, while I find Ziggler's matches to be entertaining, I think he himself is kind of uninteresting. I think he's the perfect upper midcard wrestler, but I wouldn't want him around the WHT scene.
But I believe anyone with any kind of attribute can get over in some capacity. It just comes down to utilizing their strengths, toning down their weaknesses and putting them in the right feuds or storylines. If the Great Khali got a push, I'd be fine with it if it was done properly- which is highly unlikely, but I have an open mind.
But I believe being friendly with Ziggler will only stall his career and burn out his momentum. For one, friendly rubs by the top stars rarely works in getting them over. The most infamous example for Cena is Zack Ryder. But it's not Cena's fault, as Hogan encountered the same issues when he was the #1 guy (remember when Honky Tonk Man was a good guy?). Furthermore, Cena outclasses Ziggler in almost every way as a character and personality. He has a more impressive physique and a distinct look. But also
-Both are booked as underdogs, although Cena is only an underdog-in-name. Ziggler is a better example of the definition. But this will make him look weak in comparison. Even his Kane victory was treated like a fluke.
- Ziggler's mic skills are average while Cena is a great talker. This usually wouldn't be a problem as Cena is probably the best on the mic, but both are vanilla faces. They pander to the crowd, talk about doing the right thing and have similar styles of humor (the photos).
Ziggler's only advantage is being better when it comes to in-ring action. But Cena's limitations tend to be exaggerated and I don't think that is a major advantage...especially as more than likely, Ziggler will often be the damsel in distress in this storyline.
Side by side, Cena and Ziggler are just too alike as characters. Cena's alliances with Ambrose or Reigns were interesting because they were different characters. They were true anti-heroes, in contrast to Cena's traditinal hero. Personally, I think this would be better if Ziggler turned on Cena. Then his personality would have to change to fit the heel role and they wouldn't act so much alike. Then they'd find a better way to sell his kayfabe skills (is he crafty like Rollins? Deadly like Orton?).
If he remains a face, I think he'll be de-pushed again for the reasons I listed above as well as the fact that WWE has ruined his IC belt. Having him play hot potato with it, then having his #1 challenger be a chronic loser and having him lose to seemingly every main eventer within a short amount of time suggests that WWE still doesn't have a lot of faith in him outside of talent enhancement. But his 'show off' persona barely exists as a face, so I'd be curious to see how effective he'd be as a heel.
But I believe anyone with any kind of attribute can get over in some capacity. It just comes down to utilizing their strengths, toning down their weaknesses and putting them in the right feuds or storylines. If the Great Khali got a push, I'd be fine with it if it was done properly- which is highly unlikely, but I have an open mind.
But I believe being friendly with Ziggler will only stall his career and burn out his momentum. For one, friendly rubs by the top stars rarely works in getting them over. The most infamous example for Cena is Zack Ryder. But it's not Cena's fault, as Hogan encountered the same issues when he was the #1 guy (remember when Honky Tonk Man was a good guy?). Furthermore, Cena outclasses Ziggler in almost every way as a character and personality. He has a more impressive physique and a distinct look. But also
Should Ziggler fight with Cena or against him? |
- Ziggler's mic skills are average while Cena is a great talker. This usually wouldn't be a problem as Cena is probably the best on the mic, but both are vanilla faces. They pander to the crowd, talk about doing the right thing and have similar styles of humor (the photos).
Ziggler's only advantage is being better when it comes to in-ring action. But Cena's limitations tend to be exaggerated and I don't think that is a major advantage...especially as more than likely, Ziggler will often be the damsel in distress in this storyline.
Side by side, Cena and Ziggler are just too alike as characters. Cena's alliances with Ambrose or Reigns were interesting because they were different characters. They were true anti-heroes, in contrast to Cena's traditinal hero. Personally, I think this would be better if Ziggler turned on Cena. Then his personality would have to change to fit the heel role and they wouldn't act so much alike. Then they'd find a better way to sell his kayfabe skills (is he crafty like Rollins? Deadly like Orton?).
If he remains a face, I think he'll be de-pushed again for the reasons I listed above as well as the fact that WWE has ruined his IC belt. Having him play hot potato with it, then having his #1 challenger be a chronic loser and having him lose to seemingly every main eventer within a short amount of time suggests that WWE still doesn't have a lot of faith in him outside of talent enhancement. But his 'show off' persona barely exists as a face, so I'd be curious to see how effective he'd be as a heel.