Stephen A. Smith: ‘I Would Outheel The Heel And I Dress A Lot Better Than Paul Heyman’ In WWE

Stephen A. Smith has asserted that he possesses the necessary attributes to become the premier villain in professional wrestling. During a May 8, 2026, segment on First Take, the ESPN personality claimed that with the proper guidance, he could surpass any current antagonist in the industry.

The discussion occurred in the presence of Skip Bayless and WWE Superstar Seth Rollins. The appearance was timed to coincide with the promotional buildup for the Backlash event.

Smith specifically identified Paul Heyman as the ideal tutor for his hypothetical transition into the ring. Heyman is widely regarded as one of the most influential managers and advocates in the history of sports entertainment, known for his ability to craft complex, hated characters.

While Smith acknowledged Heyman’s skill in developing professional wrestling personas, he simultaneously critiqued the manager’s personal style. Smith stated that he would outheel the heel and claimed that he dress a lot better than Paul Heyman.

The role of a heel in professional wrestling is designed to elicit negative reactions from the crowd, creating the necessary tension to elevate a babyface, or hero. This dynamic relies heavily on a performer’s ability to project arrogance, confidence, and a willingness to provoke the audience.

Smith’s professional persona on First Take often mirrors these characteristics. His broadcasting style is defined by high-energy delivery, authoritative assertions, and a confrontational approach to sports debate, which aligns with the traditional archetype of a corporate or arrogant wrestling antagonist.

The Influence of Paul Heyman

By naming Paul Heyman as his potential mentor, Smith referenced a figure who has architected some of the most successful runs in WWE history. Heyman has been instrumental in the careers of performers such as Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns, focusing on the psychological manipulation of the audience.

Heyman’s expertise lies in the promo, the spoken-word segment used to advance storylines. Smith, an experienced orator and debater, suggested that his existing verbal skills would complement Heyman’s tactical approach to character building.

The jab at Heyman’s wardrobe serves as a meta-commentary on the visual aspect of wrestling. In WWE, attire is often used to signal status and personality, with Seth Rollins himself being known for highly flamboyant and unconventional fashion choices.

Crossover Between Sports and Entertainment

The appearance of Seth Rollins on First Take underscores the continuing trend of integration between mainstream sports media and the WWE. These crossovers allow professional wrestlers to reach a broader demographic while providing sports analysts with a platform to engage with the entertainment side of athletics.

Smith has a history of engaging with the wrestling community, often discussing the intersection of athletic performance and scripted narrative. His confidence in his ability to draw heat from a crowd suggests a deep understanding of the emotional triggers used in sports entertainment.

The interaction between Smith, Bayless, and Rollins highlighted the similarities between the high-stakes environment of a televised sports debate and the theatrical nature of a wrestling promo. Both formats rely on strong opinions and the ability to command a room through presence and voice.

While there is no official confirmation of a contract or a planned appearance in a WWE ring, Smith’s public declarations indicate a willingness to explore the role of a heel. His assertion that he could out-perform established villains suggests he views his media persona as a ready-made asset for the industry.

As the WWE prepares for Backlash, the conversation around non-athlete personalities entering the fray continues to generate interest. Smith’s focus on both the mentorship of Heyman and the importance of visual presentation suggests he views the role as both a psychological and an aesthetic challenge.