I always thought the psychology behind Pipers pit was that Bob Orton was a legit badass as his bodyguard, which permitted Piper to run his mouth.
Anyway, Miz is a complete flop as a wrestler. He just doesnt have "it". They tried everything --- nothing has worked. Time to cut bait. Investing in him really set the company back.
I don't know... I don't think "flop" describes Miz. Has he fallen from where he was about 2 years back? Sure. But he'd only be a flop if they pushed him hard and he was never "there". He was hot when he had the team with Morrison, and then when he went on his own, and when he teamed with Big Show, and the MITB and title win, and then he had one of the shyttiest Mania main events ever, and then they kept him heel for too long which to me killed his steam... he def. went downhill but he's not a Jack Swagger where they threw belts on him and tried but it didn't work, or a DiBiase who couldn't get over by himself no matter what they gave him to work with. Miz is more like someone who had his time to shine, and now might just have to settle for being a good midcarder. I remember a time when he'd really gained respect not only by casual fans but by smarks as someone who consistently improved, and really earned his spot. He should've turned face a year ago, and he'd still be a big deal today. I don't think it's over for him yet tho'... he's only like 31 and he's had a waaaay better run than anyone thought he'd have.