WWE Extreme Rules 2012: 5 People The Miz Must Beat to Get Back to the Top

My, oh, my, how much has changed in one year.

Exactly one year ago, The Miz was on top of his game and main-eventing Extreme Rules.

Not only did he main-event the match, but this pay-per-view may have been the turning point in his career.

As he lost the match and the WWE title, sadly, he now finds himself in the pre-show match featured on You Tube.

To some, this could look like an insult.

However, as the saying goes "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade." To me, this saying really applies to The Miz as he just came off a huge win at WrestleMania and was featured in the first ever WWE/YouTube pay-per-view pre-show.

That being said, if this was a success for the WWE, it could land him back in their good graces. If that's the case, I have compiled a list of five people whom he must beat to get back to the top.

Keep in mind, you may not agree with my picks, and if that's the case, feel free to post your options in the comments section.

Daniel Bryan

Yes! Yes! Yes!

Right now, Bryan is in the midst of a huge run. Not only is he a former World Champion, but he currently has the hottest catch phrase going.

Let's not forget, these two have history as The Miz was Bryan's mentor during the first season of NXT. As we all know, this partnership was not cordial, as The Miz would berate Bryan weekly.

Now, the shoe is on the other foot, and Bryan is favored by the WWE over Miz, so a victory over Bryan could make the WWE think twice.

John Cena

Maybe this one seems like a bit of a long-shot, but let's not forget that The Miz has a WrestleMania victory over Cena.

Don't get me wrong, beating Cena hasn't been the hardest thing to do of late, but having The Miz go back to his roots could really help propel him into at least a midcard feud.

Who could forget The Miz's earlier challenges to Cena, while wearing his anti-Cena shirt?

In the end, both men worked well together, and both can go on the mic. This match could not only rejuvenate The Miz, but Cena as well.

Chris Jericho

Jericho has called out The Miz on several occasions and accused him of stealing his gimmick.

This match would allow The Miz to prove himself in the ring and let Jericho pass the torch to another wrestler.

Randy Orton

As of late, "The Viper" has been taking a back seat and allowing other stars a chance at the big time.

Currently, he's involved in a meaningless feud with Kane, but a feud with The Miz could be just what the doctor ordered.

This feud would allow Orton to shine by playing more of a cynical role.

Even with a loss to The Miz, Orton would still come out strong and could revisit a heel persona, while giving The Miz a win he sorely needs.

Brock Lesnar

I realize this one is near impossible.

However, who better to beat than the toughest guy in the business.

Not only, would The Miz shock fans, but this would allow for another match, as Lesnar would look to seek revenge.

Let's face it, a feud with Brock Lesnar can go a long way for any career.

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