In an exclusive blog posted as part of THE HEYMAN HUSTLE (www.heymanhustle.com) series in The UK Sun, former ECW owner Paul Heyman takes a look at the fascinating characters currently ushering in World Wrestling Entertainment's "Golden Age of Heels."

 

It's really a fascinating character study, since Heyman was known for his character creation and development.

 

Here's a key excerpt from the highly recommended story:

 

Adam Copeland understands how to keep the Edge character fresh but not cool, entertaining but not humorous, and irresistible but not likeable. Just the way he hit the line 'The Champ Is...Here!' in Cena's face was such a great moment, one that so many would be talking about if it wasn't for the fact Raw concluded with the big moment that will be played over and over again to promote the main event of Wrestlemania.

 

And that moment, which featured Shane McMahon getting punted, Stephanie McMahon getting RKO'd, and HHH – by his actions alone – going public with his marriage into the McMahon Family was made oh-so-much-more memorable because of the performance delivered by the most compelling character to come along in years.

 

As much as Edge has perfected the art of the wrestling heel, Randy Orton is by far the most riveting character WWE has ever presented.

 

Orton's character is so far from the "laughing at his own actions, bragging about his villainous conquests, reveling in his own heeldom" type of character as I've ever seen.

He has done what very few others have been able to do. He's broken new ground. He's given us a different perspective. The Orton character is driven by his demons, but shocked by his own actions.

 

It's Bruce Banner begging you not to tap into the rage that produces The Incredible Hulk, only deep down you know he wants that adrenal rush. He needs that power to conquer his adversaries. He likes the success and attention brought to him by the explosive nature of his actions.

 

And yet...and this is where Orton excels in his presentation...he is deeply afraid of the ramifications of his actions, be it suspension, termination, or getting his due when the babyface extracts revenge...this time, in the main event of Wrestlemania.

 

So, who's the better heel?

 

For Heyman's answer, and his insight into the recent performances by Chris Jericho and JBL, check out the following link:

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/wrestling/heyman/article2259238.ece