Seth Rollins has opened up about his character work in WWE, admitting that he finds playing a babyface less engaging and believes his strengths are better suited to a heel role.
Speaking during an interview on Highlights with Omar for ESPN, Rollins explained why he prefers portraying a villain on WWE television, even though he is currently positioned as a babyface following his return from injury earlier this year.
“The truth is, I’m not very good at being the hero. I can do it in short spurts, but I’m not like John Cena, I’m not like Rey Mysterio. I get bored of myself, and I think people get bored of me. I much prefer being a bad guy. I think it suits me better. Most of my favorite moments are being a piece of trash.”
Rollins has experienced multiple character shifts throughout his WWE career, transitioning between babyface and heel roles several times. His most recent heel turn came at WrestleMania 42, where he aligned with Paul Heyman and later formed The Vision faction alongside Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed.
Since returning from injury, however, Rollins has resumed a babyface role and is currently involved in a feud with Breakker. The rivalry recently saw Rollins come up short against him at Backlash 2026.
During the same interview, Rollins also reflected on how his connection with the audience has evolved over time, allowing him to better appreciate key moments in his career.
“My relationship with the audience and equity that I have has really allowed me to soak in moments a lot more,” Rollins said. “I think when you’re younger and you’re building that equity, your timing is a little bit different, you’re in a rush, you’re a bit in a hurry, you don’t really get to take these moments in as much, you don’t really get to fully experience them.”
He continued by comparing earlier milestones to more recent experiences.
“I only remember that moment (the heist of the century) in third person. I don’t remember the feeling of running down the ramp. I don’t remember the cash-in itself, I don’t have any first person experience of that. I’ve seen the replays so many times that that’s how I remember things. Whereas later in my career, the WrestleMania (41) moment from the triple threat, or the CM Punk cash-in (at WWE SummerSlam 2025), I remember all of that.”
Rollins’ comments provide insight into his creative preferences and highlight how his perspective has shifted as a veteran performer, even as he continues to play a central role in WWE programming.
Seth Rollins Admits He Prefers Being a Heel Says Babyface Role Gets Boring