JBL has spoken about a fellow WWE Hall of Famer he believes was “not a good worker.”
JBL has offered a blunt assessment of Michael “P.S.” Hayes’ in-ring ability, while still crediting the WWE Hall of Famer for understanding how to connect with a crowd. Speaking on Something To Wrestle, JBL reflected on Hayes’ career as the outspoken leader of The Fabulous Freebirds, saying that while Hayes was never known for technical wrestling, he excelled at reading a room and commanding audience attention. According to JBL, that skill placed Hayes alongside some of the biggest stars of his era when it came to getting over.
“Michael was not a good worker at all,”
JBL said, adding that Hayes was never going to deliver classic, technically polished matches. He noted, however, that Hayes was legitimately tough, hit hard in the ring, and knew how to work within his limitations. JBL said that self-awareness allowed Hayes to maximise his strengths and consistently draw strong reactions, particularly during his time working with the Von Erichs.
“Michael is a super tough guy. It’s one of the reasons he got over so well with the Von Erichs. But he knew how to work within his own abilities. So when Michael was out there, Michael got over.”
JBL also praised Hayes’ ability to talk fans into matches and then back it up with physical intensity, suggesting that balance is something missing from parts of today’s wrestling landscape. While acknowledging Hayes’ limitations, JBL made it clear that his overall effectiveness came from understanding what worked for him and leaning into it fully.
“I mean, people talk about Michael Hayes a lot about how he could talk people into a crowd…Michael could talk them in. Michael could also deliver in the ring, which I think is one thing that’s missing with some guys.”
Hayes continues to influence WWE behind the scenes, serving as vice president of creative writing and a senior producer. His work has included helping shape major storyline directions, including elements of The Bloodline saga involving Roman Reigns.
How Long Has Michael Hayes Been With WWE?
Michael “P.S.” Hayes has been associated with WWE, on and off, for more than three decades. He first joined the company in 1988 as part of The Fabulous Freebirds, before later transitioning into managing stars and a behind-the-scenes role in the mid-1990s.
Since then, Hayes has remained a long-time fixture in WWE creative, working as a producer and executive, making him one of the company’s most enduring backstage figures.
