Paul Heyman Reveals Why He Never Wanted To Be Called a WWE 'Manager'

BY SACNILK

Paul Heyman has spent decades working alongside some of WWE’s biggest stars, but he has never been comfortable with being labeled simply as a “manager.” During his appearance on Six Feet Under, Heyman explained why he deliberately tried to change the role rather than be defined by its traditional image. Heyman recalled breaking into the wrestling business in 1987, when several veterans told him that managing was becoming a dying role. He said J.J. Dillon, Jim Cornette, Dusty Rhodes and Jim Ross were among those who encouraged him to become a commentator instead. “When I broke in in 1987, I was told by everybody that, Be a commentator. Why? Because a manager is a dead role. Everyone told me this. J.J. Dillon told it to me. Jim Cornette told me. And literally, I mean...” Heyman said Vince McMahon also gave him similar advice, telling him that the traditional manager role was disappearing and would eventually be replaced by other types of on-screen personalities. “Oh, well, you gotta transition over to be a commentator or something, because that manager, it's a dying role. It's gonna be beautiful women, to accompany the men to the ring, and one or two very, very old-timers.” Rather than leave the role behind, Heyman decided to reshape it. He wanted his work to feel different from what previous managers had done and eventually developed his own approach to working with wrestlers. “So my goal early on was to change that role, was to evolve it into something else. You know, wrestlers weren't wrestlers. They were superstars. Right. Elevate the role, do something different with it. So I don't get compared to anybody else. So I can find my own niche in the business to where I can say I'm the best that's ever done that role.” Heyman also explained that when he returned as part of the Dangerous Alliance, he asked to be called the CEO of the Dangerous Alliance rather than a manager because he felt the title represented the past. “When I came back to being a manager, which was in the Dangerous Alliance, I asked to be the CEO of the Dangerous Alliance so that I wasn't labeled a manager. Because I always figured, wow, that's the past. Let's not call it a manager because I'm just reminding people of a role that no longer exists.”Heyman’s career has since seen him work alongside Brock Lesnar, Roman Reigns, CM Punk and other top WWE stars, with his role often extending far beyond simply speaking for them.

BY SACNILK

Roman Reigns’ transformation into The Tribal Chief changed the direction of his WWE career. After returning in 2020, Reigns aligned with Paul Heyman and moved away from the “Big Dog” persona that had defined much of his earlier run. He became a colder, more controlling figure who demanded understanding and established himself as the head of his family. Heyman has now explained that the character was not simply something Reigns performed during WWE television. The two worked on making Reigns understand The Tribal Chief so deeply that he could carry the character even when he was not cutting a promo or wrestling a match. While speaking on Six Feet Under with The Undertaker, Heyman recalled how he would deliberately speak to Reigns as The Tribal Chief during ordinary conversations, forcing him to think and respond as the character rather than simply memorizing lines. “When Roman and I first got put together, We would talk on the phone and at times I'd just out of the blue in the middle of a conversation talking about, you know, just how does your lawn look today? And just completely off topic, I'd say, what'd you have for breakfast today? Oh, you know, this many eggs and, you know, a bowl of oatmeal, whatever. Great, what did the tribal chief have? And I'd want him to talk to me as the tribal chief. And not just for a promo, like for five minutes. Talk to me for a while. Spend a half hour on the phone with me as the tribal chief. Do small talk with me as the tribal chief.” Heyman said the purpose was to make Reigns completely comfortable with the identity of the character. Instead of thinking about what Roman Reigns would say, he wanted Reigns to understand what The Tribal Chief would say and how he would behave in everyday situations. “Did the tribal chief take his kids to school today? Did the tribal chief pick his kids up from school today? What was that conversation like? So that just he learns how to... Walk in the skin of that character so much that he's just as comfortable being the tribal chief Roman Reigns as he is being Joe Anawai.” That approach became especially useful because The Tribal Chief was closely connected to Reigns’ real-life family background. Heyman explained that Reigns genuinely occupied a position of authority within the Anoaʻi family. “He is the head of his table. He is the tribal chief of that family. He legitimately is. And there always was. For a while, it was Afa and Sika together. Right. And Afa would handle the business, and Sika was the muscle. And then Rodney stepped up. Rodney, yeah. And for a while it was Junior. Junior was the undisputed head of that family for a long time. And it was time for Joe.” The partnership between Reigns and Heyman began in August 2020, shortly after Reigns returned from his hiatus. Heyman became his Special Counsel, later taking on the “Wise Man” identity, while Reigns built The Bloodline around his position as The Tribal Chief. The storyline eventually became one of WWE’s central stories for several years. Reigns’ battles with Jey Uso established the family dynamic, while The Usos, Solo Sikoa and other members of the Anoaʻi family were gradually brought into the story. Reigns’ championship run also became closely tied to the Bloodline narrative. Heyman believes the success came from treating every performer as an individual rather than trying to repeat what had worked with another wrestler. “What worked with Brock did not work with Roman. And what worked with Roman did not work with CM Punk. And what worked with CM Punk did not work with you or with Steve or with Rob Van Dam or anybody else that I've worked with. Everyone's an individual and we need to create and act like a marriage, like a professional marriage that I'm here to, if I understand my role right, I'm the supporting player.”

BY SACNILK

Paul Heyman has revealed more about the decision that transformed Roman Reigns from “The Big Dog” into “The Tribal Chief,” explaining why he believed Reigns could not simply return to the same character he had played for years. The change came in 2020, when Reigns returned to WWE after stepping away during the COVID-19 pandemic. He aligned himself with Heyman and soon began presenting himself in a completely different way. The character eventually became known as The Tribal Chief and went on to define one of the longest chapters of Reigns’ WWE career. During his appearance on Six Feet Under, Heyman explained that the change was not simply about turning Reigns heel. He believed the entire presentation had to evolve. Heyman recalled that when WWE was preparing to put him together with Reigns, Vince McMahon originally told him that Reigns was still “The Big Dog” and that Heyman would be his advocate. “In 2020, when COVID hit and the decision was made corporately, we are going to produce live television or live-to-tape television twice a week, Raw and SmackDown. And we're still going to do what was then called pay-per-views, now premium live events. And Brock's contract wrapped up just as the whole world shut down. And Vince made the business decision, we got to take a break for a while.” Heyman then explained how Reigns’ situation created an opportunity for something new. With Reigns having taken time away and WWE looking for a new direction, the two finally had the chance to work together. “And the opportunity arose at that time that Roman had taken so much time off. And the decision was made for us to finally work together. And when I asked Vince his vision for it, he just said, ‘He's the big dog and you're his advocate.’” Reigns had already spent years being presented as The Big Dog. He had been positioned as one of WWE's leading stars, but Heyman felt that simply attaching himself to the same version of Reigns would not create anything fresh. “The first thing I said was, he can't be the big dog anymore. We've run with the big dog since 2012. He needs to evolve into something completely different, and I can't be his advocate. I was Brock Lesnar's advocate. I must be something different to this character.” Heyman did not want to take the role he had previously played alongside Brock Lesnar and simply place it beside Reigns. He believed both sides of the presentation needed to change. His inspiration came from another famous WWE character transformation: The Undertaker going from the Deadman to the American Badass. Heyman explained that the transformation worked because WWE did not erase everything that came before. Instead, the company took an established character and allowed him to evolve as the wrestling audience changed. “And the examples that I continuously gave were, and this is what sold Vince on it, was the Deadman, the American Badass. It has to be that shocking of a metamorphosis. And it has to make sense. The Deadman grew into the American Badass because times had changed around him. The '90s had evolved and the audience wanted more.” The goal was not to pretend that The Big Dog had never existed. Instead, the new character would build on Reigns’ previous history while taking him somewhere completely different. “Even though that's a seismic shift in character, you never alienated the Deadman, you incorporated him into an evolved character. It's the same thing. It's a progression, it's a metamorphosis. It's, here's what I have on my resume. And here's where I've been, and now here's where I'd like to take you next.” Heyman revealed that he came up with the nickname, although McMahon initially questioned the idea. Recent comments from Heyman have also confirmed that McMahon initially wanted Reigns to remain The Big Dog rather than adopt the new nickname.

BY SACNILK

Paul Heyman's induction into the WWE Hall of Fame took an unexpected turn when the legendary manager unleashed an uncensored zinger during his speech. ## While reminiscing about his ECW days, Heyman declared, "If you think the spirit of ECW died in a bankruptcy court in 2001, you can suck my fking dk!"## The previously unseen footage of wrestler reactions has the internet buzzing. We see Randy Orton hilariously smack the ring, Grayson Waller celebrating wildly, The Miz losing it completely, Jimmy Uso shielding Naomi's ears in a sweet gesture, Stephanie McMahon surprisingly applauding, and Cody Rhodes giving a knowing glance to Triple H.## This unscripted moment adds another layer to Heyman's already eventful weekend. He'll be a presence on both nights of WrestleMania, with Roman Reigns defending his Undisputed Universal Title against Cody Rhodes in the main event of Night Two. Before that, Reigns teams with The Rock to battle Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night One.## Randy Orton’s reaction to Paul Heyman saying this is sending me 💀💀💀💀 pic.twitter.com/6B5QZw0QXl— Richard Staple, BSN, RN🇯🇲 (@RichStapless) April 6, 2024 ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Paul Heyman's WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony on April 5th wasn't without its surprises. While Lesnar was noticeably absent from the official video package, Heyman defied expectations by acknowledging his longtime client, Brock Lesnar, during his speech.## Heyman, known for his "advocate" role and signature introductions, took a humorous and energetic approach to his acceptance speech. He referenced his history as a wrestling disrupter, his leadership of ECW, and even took a playful jab at Stephanie McMahon. For the ECW segment, he donned classic ECW gear and declared that the spirit of the brand is far from dead.## While recapping his career highlights, Heyman specifically mentioned advocating for Lesnar, even delivering his trademark introduction for "The Beast Incarnate." This is significant because Lesnar was entirely omitted from the official WWE-produced video package. The closest reference was a brief mention of Heyman managing the "1 in 21-1," Lesnar's undefeated streak record.## Lesnar's exclusion likely stems from his implication in an ongoing lawsuit against WWE. The lawsuit alleges that Vince McMahon used an unnamed "world-famous athlete" to keep Lesnar, a former UFC Heavyweight Champion, happy during contract negotiations. Since the lawsuit's filing, Lesnar has been pulled from WWE creative plans and television appearances. ## PAUL HEYMAN NAME DROPPED BROCK LESNAR!!#smackdown #WWEHOF pic.twitter.com/PuMj3AHj2H— Maverick (@OneTrueMav) April 6, 2024 ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Top Dolla, formerly of WWE's Hit Row, recently spoke about Paul Heyman's support for the group's unique hip-hop presentation. In an interview with Chris Van Vliet, Dolla revealed Heyman's appreciation for Hit Row's approach, which he saw as more realistic compared to other wrestlers' "kayfabe rap." ## Heyman reportedly advocated for Hit Row's work, texting Dolla with praise for their videos and suggesting their inclusion on shows. Dolla mentioned sending a video for a Christmas show that Heyman believed should open the program. However, such endorsements rarely translated to prominent spots on WWE television. ## Hit Row's talent seemed to be acknowledged behind the scenes, but translating into actual opportunities proved difficult. Dolla pointed out instances where their creative efforts, despite receiving positive feedback, never made it to air. Even during a highly-watched SmackDown taping, the only promoted match was Hit Row's title shot against The Usos, with no recognition for their wider contributions. ## Despite the frustrations, Dolla expressed gratitude for Heyman's unwavering support. He acknowledged that Heyman consistently appreciated their work, even when others remained hesitant to utilize it on television. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

As Paul Heyman basks in the spotlight of his upcoming WWE Hall of Fame induction, he reflects on his impactful alliance with Roman Reigns and the creation of the dominant "The Bloodline" storyline.## Heyman, who joined forces with Reigns in 2020, boasts of their work together: "It's a body of work that can be compared to some of the best drama television shows in history, with the most riveting villains that anyone has ever seen."## Beyond his on-screen persona, Heyman sheds light on his creative influence within the group: "I carry a significant voice in how we are portrayed and presented — that includes everything from camera angles to music to storylines." ## He elaborates on the significance of his character's title, "The Wiseman": "It's both acknowledgment from the Tribal Chief to his Special Counsel, and also a historical reference to the Grand Wizard, Freddie Blassie and Captain Lou Albano." He further emphasizes the importance of creative input in his career: "I wouldn't be satisfied. I wouldn't be happy with just going out there and doing our shtick. I have to have a voice. I have to have some level of input, and so far, as luck would have it, that input has been not only welcomed but encouraged and very well received." ## Heyman's induction into the WWE Hall of Fame solidifies his place as a wrestling legend, and his comments offer a glimpse into the creative mind behind one of the most captivating storylines in recent WWE history. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

The WWE Hall of Fame ceremony for 2024 is shaping up, with Paul Heyman being announced as the first inductee. ## This news, widely anticipated considering the event takes place in Philadelphia, Heyman's home base with ECW, marks the inaugural announcement under the "Triple H era."## Traditionally, the headliner for the Hall of Fame would be revealed shortly after the Royal Rumble to boost ticket sales. However, with the ceremony now held after SmackDown, the urgency for early announcements has subsided.## While leaks regarding inductees usually surface ahead of official announcements, this year has been remarkably quiet. On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez mentioned one rumored name: Haku. ## Meltzer acknowledged hearing the rumors surrounding Haku, a highly respected figure in wrestling and close to The Rock, a member of the company's board. While confirmation remains elusive, the association with The Rock could potentially pave the way for Haku's induction. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Legendary wrestling figure Paul Heyman will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year, marking his first acceptance of the honor after reportedly turning it down in the past. ## Heyman, known for his work as a manager, promoter, and creative force, will be the first inductee chosen by the new WWE regime under Paul Levesque (Triple H). This adds another layer of significance to Heyman's induction, as it comes from a leader who understands his contributions to the industry firsthand. ## According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, Previously, Heyman had declined the Hall of Fame due to his belief that he was still actively involved in the wrestling business, most recently as the "Special Counsel" to Roman Reigns. This year's ceremony, however, holds special meaning for Heyman, taking place in Philadelphia, the former home base of his iconic Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) promotion. ## While some speculate that Heyman's induction fills a "main event" slot for the ceremony, it's undeniable that his legacy, particularly with ECW, warrants his place among wrestling's elite. This long-awaited acceptance marks a significant moment for both Heyman and the WWE Hall of Fame. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Paul Heyman will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024. The news, first reported by the Associated Press, comes as a well-deserved recognition for Heyman's immense contributions to the world of professional wrestling.## Heyman's career began in WCW, where his controversial persona "Paul E. Dangerously" managed iconic wrestlers like Stone Cold Steve Austin, Arn Anderson, and Rick Rude. His innovative use of promos and his signature oversized cell phone made him a distinctive figure in the industry.## After leaving WCW, Heyman took the independent scene by storm with his Philadelphia-based promotion, Eastern Championship Wrestling (ECW). He transformed ECW into the notorious Extreme Championship Wrestling, known for its hardcore style and groundbreaking matches. Inspired by alternative rock music and MTV, ECW rose from public access to national pay-per-view, showcasing a unique blend of hardcore brawlers and skilled athletes. ## ECW's influence is undeniable, credited with inspiring WWE's iconic "Attitude Era" and becoming the third-largest wrestling company in the world before facing financial struggles in 2001. Heyman then landed in WWE, initially as a broadcast partner, but soon found himself leading the charge of the infamous "Invasion" storyline, where ECW stars challenged WWE for dominance. ## Heyman's ability to reinvent himself has been a constant throughout his career. He has formed memorable alliances with superstars like CM Punk, Brock Lesnar, Big Show, and Kurt Angle, consistently using his sharp wit and strategic mind to elevate their careers. ## Currently, Heyman acts as the "Special Council" to the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns. His guidance and outspoken nature have been instrumental in shaping one of the most dominant championship reigns in WWE history. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

Monday Night Raw took a drastic turn when Cody Rhodes flipped the script on the ongoing saga with The Bloodline. While Paul Heyman's arrival was anticipated, his interaction with Rhodes developed with an unexpected twist. ## During his post-match celebration, Heyman appeared alongside three supposed NYPD officers, seemingly offering a truce and expressing concern for Rhodes' safety before his WrestleMania clash with Roman Reigns. However, Rhodes, disillusioned by The Rock's recent alliance with The Bloodline, refused to back down. His frustration boiled over, declaring, "I am done... I'm absolutely fed up with being nice!" ## The tension escalated as Heyman's goons attempted to restrain Rhodes, only to be swiftly dispatched. As Heyman made a desperate call, likely to Reigns and The Rock, Rhodes seized the opportunity: "The Bloodline isn't hunting me," he declared, his voice laced with defiance, "I'm hunting The Bloodline!"## This proclamation marks a significant shift in Rhodes' storyline. Recent interactions with Seth Rollins, who offered himself as a "shield," painted a picture of a cautious but determined Rhodes. However, his decisive actions and aggressive words suggest a possible transformation into a more unpredictable and potentially unhinged character leading up to WrestleMania. ## Another 🔥🎤 moment from @HeymanHustle! 😮‍💨#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/KgishPmZaz— WWE (@WWE) February 27, 2024 ## "The Bloodline isn't hunting me... I'M HUNTING THE BLOODLINE!"*mic drop* 😲#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/HT621oS71L— WWE (@WWE) February 27, 2024 ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...

BY SACNILK

During WWE SmackDown New Year's Revolution, Paul Heyman, the outspoken advocate for the Universal Champion Roman Reigns, addressed the recent return of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson to WWE and his subtle reference to Reigns. ## Roman Reigns chose to remain silent during the episode, but Paul Heyman was ready to share his perspective on The Rock's mention of the Head of the Table. According to Heyman, The Rock invoked Roman Reigns' name because he aspires to sit at the head of the table. However, Heyman emphasized that the only way to earn that seat is to be invited to a dinner of relevancy, a privilege The Rock has not been extended and will not be in the future. Heyman dismissed The Rock's intentions, stating that he was merely seeking to make headlines.## In his trademark style, Heyman delivered a witty remark about going viral, asserting that the only two ways are to date Taylor Swift or call out Roman Reigns. The reference to Reigns as the key to achieving notoriety in the WWE landscape is a testament to the Universal Champion's dominant position. Heyman highlighted that various superstars, including John Cena, Brock Lesnar, Cody Rhodes, and the recently returned CM Punk, have sought relevance through Roman Reigns.## Acknowledging Punk's return, Heyman humorously detailed the evolution of their relationship from best friends to advocate and, finally, to wise man.## Looking ahead to the upcoming match between LA Knight, AJ Styles, and Randy Orton, Heyman confidently declared that no matter who emerges victorious, Roman Reigns is poised to "smash" them at the WWE Royal Rumble. This strong statement sets the stage for a potential showdown between Reigns and The Rock at a future WWE event.## The Rock made a noteworthy return to WWE on Monday's WWE Raw, interrupting Jinder Mahal and leaving a lasting impression with his iconic People's Elbow. As he exited the arena, The Rock posed a rhetorical question, asking if he should sit "at the head of the table," a clear nod to Roman Reigns and a potential clash in the future. ## Stay Tuned To Sacnilk...