What Is the Opposite of a Heel in Wrestling?

When it comes to professional wrestling, there are various terms and concepts that fans need to understand in order to fully appreciate the art of this form of entertainment. One such term is “heel.”

But have you ever wondered what the opposite of a heel is in wrestling? In this article, we will explore the concept of a heel and its counterpart, the babyface.

What is a Heel?

A “heel” is a term used in professional wrestling to describe a character who portrays a villainous or antagonistic persona. These wrestlers are often booed by the audience and play up their negative traits to generate heat or negative reaction from the crowd. Heels use tactics such as cheating, betrayals, and trash-talking to make themselves despised by fans.

Heels are known for breaking rules, attacking opponents when they least expect it, and generally doing whatever it takes to win. They often align themselves with other heels or form factions to gain an advantage over their opponents. Some iconic heels in wrestling history include “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, Ric Flair, and Triple H.

The Babyface – The Opposite of a Heel

The opposite of a heel in wrestling is commonly referred to as a “babyface” or simply a face. A babyface is a character who portrays a heroic or good-guy persona. Unlike heels who are booed, babyfaces are cheered by the audience for their positive qualities and virtuous behavior.

Babyfaces typically uphold values such as integrity, sportsmanship, and fairness inside and outside the ring. They fight for justice and stand up against injustice perpetrated by heels. Babyfaces are often portrayed as underdogs who overcome obstacles and triumph against all odds.

These characters connect with the audience on an emotional level as fans rally behind them, hoping to see them succeed. Some of the most beloved babyfaces in wrestling history include Hulk Hogan, John Cena, and Stone Cold Steve Austin.

The Role of Babyfaces and Heels in Wrestling

Both babyfaces and heels play crucial roles in professional wrestling. The dynamics between these two character types create the essence of storytelling within the squared circle.

Babyfaces provide fans with someone to root for, a hero they can look up to and support. They inspire hope and embody the values that fans hold dear. Babyfaces often engage in feuds with heels, seeking retribution for their actions and standing up against their villainous ways.

On the other hand, heels serve as foils to babyfaces. They create conflict and provide obstacles for the heroes to overcome. Heels generate heat from the crowd through their actions, making fans even more invested in seeing them get defeated by the babyface.

The Importance of Character Development

In conclusion, understanding the roles of both heels and babyfaces is essential to fully appreciate professional wrestling as a form of entertainment. The contrast between these two character types creates compelling narratives that keep fans engaged.

So next time you watch a wrestling match, pay attention to how each wrestler portrays either a heel or a babyface character. Notice how they use their personas to elicit different reactions from the audience. The interplay between these characters is what makes professional wrestling such an exciting spectacle!