Quite often in wrestling heels are presented as dumb people who make simple mistakes which is often how the babyfaces end up getting one over on them. However, that isn't always the case, particularly in AEW. The company often does things differently, and Tony Khan has booked his heels to often be a lot smarter than others.
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It's a decision that works well when it comes to storytelling, allowing the heels to push buttons even further. Whether it is through their promos or the cunning plans they have to cheat, AEW has had some clever heels over the years that have showcased great intelligence.
10 Jeff Jarrett
Jeff Jarrett might not be one of the most popular members of the AEW roster, but he's certainly one of the smartest. The Last Outlaw knows how to cheat to win, whether it's using his trusty guitar or having the wrestlers he has surrounded himself helping him out at any cost.
Jarrett's ability to constantly reinvent himself to ensure he is always in a position of prominence is something that deserves a lot of credit. However, in kayfabe, he is also one of the smartest characters on the show as well, which has helped him stand out straight away.
9 Jake Roberts
Jake Roberts has always been showcased as one of the smartest men in wrestling with his character having been one of the most cunning people in the business. This was the case during his wrestling career, and that continued throughout his management role in AEW.
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While the company hasn't truly used Roberts to his fullest potential, his promos have always shown great intelligence as he has helped to build Lance Archer. Roberts can poke the fire to get his client great opportunities, and that has always been evident.
8 Britt Baker
There's a reason why Britt Baker has been on top of AEW's women's division throughout her time with the company, and that is purely down to how smart she is. Fans know that she's clever in real life which is clear by her dental career, so bringing that into her on-screen character made sense.
Baker ensured that she had a backup plan every single time she competed during her heel run, with Rebel and Jamie Hayter being there to ensure she always got the results that she wanted.
7 Samoa Joe
Samoa Joe is the master when it comes to mind games, and that has been clear throughout his time in AEW. While he has no problem smashing through his opponents with the hard-hitting style everyone knows he has, the reason Joe is so great is that he blends that style with true intelligence.
His trash-talking has the ability to sting his opponents just as badly as his punches do, and he will always push them to their limits. Joe's a smart talent with his in-ring work too, particularly with how he often just sidesteps aerial attacks, something few others ever do.
6 Christian Cage
Christian Cage might have spent the majority of his time in AEW working as a babyface, but he was smartly planning his heel turn throughout that time. When he finally pulled the trigger he caught people by surprise, including Jungle Boy, who never saw it coming.
Cage showcased just how smart he was by turning Luchasaurus onto his side even though he had been Jungle Boy's best friend. He knew that a personal attack would push the buttons of his rival as well, with Cage's brain power being one of his biggest strengths.
5 Malakai Black
Malakai Black is someone who always seems to be one step ahead of his opponents both in and out of the ring. His type of intelligence is slightly different from others on the roster as there is an air of mystery surrounding everything that he does, particularly with his vignettes.
Black will speak in riddles to confuse his rivals, while his ability to draw in followers also showcases great intelligence. There is strength in numbers, and that is something that he has proven throughout his time at AEW.
4 Don Callis
A great manager has intelligence and can take their client to the next level, which is exactly what Don Callis has done for Kenny Omega. While Omega is one of the best wrestlers in the world, having Callis by his side proved to be a helpful situation.
Callis was happy to talk trash and frustrate Omega's opponents while also getting The Elite star the best opportunities possible, including the chance to hold gold in Impact Wrestling as well.
3 Matt Hardy
Matt Hardy might not have been one of the main event names during his main heel run with the company, but he was certainly one of the smartest. He brought in elements of his Big Money character, and that was all about getting people under contract to try and aid himself.
This was particularly smart when it came to his work with Adam Page, getting him to sign a deal so that he could take a certain percentage of his wages. It showcased intelligence, and this type of heel was different from mainstream programming, and it worked out well.
2 Chris Jericho
Chris Jericho is one of the top veterans of the AEW roster, and that experience has been clear throughout his entire run with the company. He knows how to surround himself with individuals who will help him secure victories, and that is the sign of a clever man.
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Jericho is cunning and always has a backup plan, no matter what he plans on doing. Whether it's the Inner Circle or the Jericho Appreciation Society, having those people by his side help to make him a compelling star to watch.
1 MJF
Because MJF has been AEW's top heel over the years it is no surprise he has been the smartest as well. He is someone who knows exactly what is needed to push the buttons of his opponents with the words that he has to say, playing brilliant mind games.
However, MJF's true intelligence is showcased by how he can constantly find creative ways to cheat in his matches. Whether it's using his diamond ring or getting help from others, this side of him has helped MJF's character to become truly hated.
