Sheamus Is in Dire Need of Character Change Following WrestleMania XXX

Word circulated around the web is that Sheamus, among others, is in line for a big push following WrestleMania XXX.

As per the Wrestling Observer Newsletter (subscription required), Dave Meltzer stated:

"In order, the people the company projects to be its five biggest stars going forward after WrestleMania are, Cena, Bryan, Orton, Sheamus, and Reigns."

It’s not overly surprising to hear this—although Sheamus hasn’t been involved in any major programs in the last couple of years, he’s also rarely suffered a loss.

But the problem is, as it stands, The Celtic Warrior character just doesn’t work.

Yes, he’s over, but not as much as he should be after 210 days as World Heavyweight Champion and the protection he’s been granted by officials.

Not that it’s Sheamus’ fault, as the pale brute has steadily improved his ring game since debuting in the company over five years ago.

The problem is creative, and particularly the character that Sheamus is playing: a poor man’s John Cena.

He constantly cracks lame jokes in interviews and is always seen sporting a suspiciously sunny disposition, wearing a hardy smile and walking with a spring in his step.

Credit: WWE.com

But it all seems forced and glaringly inauthentic, and most principally, out of sync with the blistering intensity of the Great White’s in ring style.

And as mentioned, and much like Cena, he rarely loses.

Take his recent program with Christian—the two have wrestled several (criminally underrated) matches and he’s won each and every one of them.

He’s Super Sheamus.

The problem is, the superhero gimmick doesn’t work at anything other than a main event level—especially when you have someone like Cena around to compare to.

Credit: WWE.com

The quick fix is, in theory, a heel turn. It’s much easier to make fans hate a talent than like them, but truthfully if Sheamus were to return to his 2009 ways, he’d be just as ineffective a character.

If he is to turn heel, he needs to be a monster. Think Mark Henry in 2011. He can’t run from a fight; he IS the fight. Because, again, a cowardly Sheamus is just as bad as a happy-go-lucky one.

But a heel turn isn't necessary, it's just easier.

Bottom line: Sheamus needs an intense character to match his intense work style.

Because if his current character gets a big push, expect the savvier-than-ever fans to reject him like they have Batista.