The thing I always appreciated about Bryan is he came across as genuine. No matter what he did, he never felt like he was being something he wasn't. Even as a heel, you could tell he loved every waking minute of being there, entertaining people and performing. His love of the wrestling business shined through. And honestly, in a business like this? It's rare.
Also, those reactions, WWE? That's legitimate, earned love and respect from an audience. Not the kind of thing you're trying to force with Roman Reigns.