The Miz has opened up about a moment when he feared a former WWE star might physically strike him during a tense segment. Known for his numerous feuds with top wrestlers, The Miz recounted this incident from a post-show event related to WWE in 2016. It took place on Talking Smack, a program designed to explore the aftermath of SmackDown episodes, where tempers flared during an exchange with Daniel Bryan, a former WWE Champion. The segment escalated after Bryan called The Miz a coward because of his wrestling style, prompting The Miz to respond angrily on camera.
Details of the Tense Exchange on Talking Smack
During an appearance on INSIGHT with Chris Van Vliet, The Miz detailed the sequence of events. Despite being the reigning Intercontinental Champion, he was initially scheduled only for a dark match, leading him to quietly request Road Dogg to include him in the Talking Smack segment that night. The altercation began when Daniel Bryan accused The Miz of being a coward in a way that felt personal and different from others’ usual insults.
“I was doing that, and he starts, and he calls me a coward. And there’s something about the way that Daniel Bryan calls me a coward that’s different than every time you hear someone call you a coward. You know, you hear it all the time. It’s the standard bearer,” said The Miz.
The Miz’s anger intensified when Bryan further criticized his wrestling style, saying he wrestled softly. This led The Miz to believe Bryan might actually throw a punch during the segment.
“And then I think he said I wrestle soft or something like that… So then I remember, like, getting really angry, like really angry, so angry that when he walked I thought he was going to hit me. I really did. Plan was he was gonna punch me in the face,” he added.
Fortunately, Bryan walked away without making physical contact before delivering a memorable promo that has since become widely recognized among WWE fans.
The Miz Reflects on His Recognition in WWE
The Miz is widely regarded as a dependable performer who has played a key role in elevating younger wrestlers. His talent on the microphone and his effectiveness as a heel have earned respect from fans and colleagues alike. However, he revealed to Chris Van Vliet that although he receives acknowledgment for his work, it rarely feels complete or wholehearted.
The Miz contrasted the recognition he gets with that of John Cena, explaining that while Cena receives full bouquets of respect, his own recognition often feels like half-dead flowers, implying it is somewhat lacking or insufficient.
Significance and Future Outlook
This revealing account by The Miz offers a rare glimpse into the intensity behind WWE segments and the interpersonal dynamics among its stars. The incident highlights just how raw emotions can get during live or recorded segments, even when scripted. It also underscores The Miz’s ongoing desire for full respect within the company, reflecting his frustrations despite a successful career. Moving forward, his openness may encourage other wrestlers to share their experiences, potentially influencing how WWE manages on-screen conflicts and backstage recognition.
