What is a Babyface in Professional Wrestling? Understanding the ‘Good Guy’ Character in WWE

​In professional wrestling, the term babyface refers to the “good guy” or heroic character that fans are encouraged to .

In WWE, these wrestlers embody positive traits such as honesty, integrity, and a strong moral code, making them relatable and irable to the audience.

Characteristics of a Babyface in Wrestling

A babyface typically adheres to a set of principles that distinguish them from their villainous counterparts, known as heels:

• Fair Play: They compete within the rules and avoid cheating.​

• Respect for Opponents and Fans: They show sportsmanship and engage positively with the audience.​

• Resilience: They often overcome adversity, embodying the classic underdog spirit.​

These attributes are designed to resonate with fans, fostering a connection that encourages and investment in the babyface’s journey.

Types of Babyfaces in Professional Wrestling

Babyfaces can be categorised based on their personas and the nuances they bring to their roles:​

Traditional Hero

These wrestlers exemplify classic virtues, always abiding by the rules and promoting positive messages.

They serve as role models, especially for younger fans – think Rey Mysterio and, up until recently, John Cena.​

Anti-Hero

An anti-hero babyface may employ unconventional or rebellious tactics yet still garner fan due to their charisma and relatable motives.

Notable examples include The Rock, who, despite their edgy behaviours, became fan favourites.

Authority Figure

Some babyfaces hold positions of power within the wrestling narrative, such as general managers or commissioners, and use their authority to ensure fairness and justice.

Mick Foley’s tenure as WWF Commissioner is a prime example of an authority figure babyface. ​

The Role of a Babyface in WWE Storytelling

In WWE, babyfaces play a crucial role in storytelling by embodying the virtues that audiences are meant to cheer for.

Their narratives often involve overcoming challenges posed by heels, leading to climactic matches that provide emotional payoffs for fans.

This dynamic creates a clear moral split, enhancing the entertainment value and emotional engagement of the audience.​

Evolution of the Babyface Character

Over time, the portrayal of babyfaces has evolved to reflect changing audience preferences.

While traditional babyfaces were paragons of virtue, modern audiences often gravitate towards more complex characters.

This shift has led to the rise of anti-heroes and more nuanced personas that blur the lines between good and bad, adding depth to wrestling storylines.

A prime example of this would be CM Punk.