Why The Wasp from The Masked Singer Season 12 Should Have Won (And Would Have Won Any Other Season)

The Masked Singer reached new heights in its twelfth season, with the runner-up, Wasp, an incredible performance by singer and actor Mario. While Mario showcased exceptional talent, he ultimately faced fierce competition from the unstoppable Buffalos, who were revealed to be the iconic Boyz II Men. Although their victory was well-deserved, many fans believe Mario’s performances merited the top spot as well.

Mario consistently impressed the judging panel, which included Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, Ken Jeong, and Rita Ora, throughout the season. Rita successfully identified him, and Robin concurred, while Jenny speculated he was Jason Derulo, and Ken guessed Usher. Let’s explore the reasons why Mario was a deserving winner of The Masked Singer season 12, and how he would have claimed victory in any other season.

Mario: A Standout Performer of The Masked Singer Season 12

Mario’s Versatility Shines Through

Watch Mario Perform

Throughout the competition, Mario consistently showcased his outstanding vocal abilities, improving each week. He commenced his journey with a remarkable rendition of “Rock Your Body”by Justin Timberlake, energizing the audience with his captivating dance moves. During Barbie Night, he shifted gears, delivering a heartfelt performance of “Skyscraper”by Demi Lovato.

Demonstrating his range again, Mario dazzled viewers during ‘60s Night with his powerful interpretation of “Ain’t No Way”by Aretha Franklin, featuring his signature falsetto. In the Group B finals Battle Royale, he faced off against Kobie Turner’s Goo, both delivering impressive performances of Marvin Gaye’s classic, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.”Mario emerged victorious in the Battle Royale, proceeding to the quarterfinals.

During the quarterfinals, he amazed everyone with his stunning rendition of “Standing Next to You”by Jungkook, complemented by an eye-catching dance routine. Moving into the semi-finals, he captivated the audience once again with a breathtaking rendition of “Beautiful Things,”securing his place in the season finale without having to face off in the Smack Royale.

In the finale, Mario concluded his remarkable journey with two impressive performances: “When I Was Your Man”by Bruno Mars and “I’m Your Baby Tonight”by Whitney Houston. These numbers allowed him to showcase both emotional depth and his dynamic stage presence. After his unmasking, he delighted fans with a performance of his own hit, “Let Me Love You.”In any other season, Mario would have walked away with the coveted Golden Mask Trophy, yet in this instance, he faced the formidable Boyz II Men.

Mario’s Undefeated Streak Throughout The Competition

Defeating Boyz II Men in the Semi-Finals

Watch Mario’s Performance

Mario’s impressive track record during The Masked Singer only adds to why he deserved the title. He triumphed over Kobie Turner’s Goo during the Group B finals Battle Royale and advanced seamlessly to the semi-finals alongside Boyz II Men. This advancement was secured without the need to compete in the Smack Royale, as AJ Michalka (Strawberry Shortcake) and Kobie Turner battled for the remaining spot.

In a thrilling twist, Mario managed to outpace Boyz II Men during the semi-final voting, propelling him into the season finale without a Smack Royale duel against AJ. His ability to outperform one of music’s greatest groups underscores his exceptional talent and the possibility that The Masked Singer season 12 could have ended in a tie. Mario’s strength as a vocalist was truly remarkable, leading him to triumph over illustrious competition.

While Boyz II Men rightfully claimed their victory, Mario still stands as one of the most gifted singers in the show’s history. Following his unmasking, he joyfully remarked, “it smells like victory still.”His graciousness as a runner-up was evident when he celebrated Boyz II Men’s performance of “Motownphilly.”Mario will forever be regarded as a legend, and his time as Wasp will be remembered as one of the defining performances in The Masked Singer history.

The Masked Singer season 13 is set to premiere on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 8 p.m. EST on FOX.

Sources: The Masked Singer/YouTube, The Masked Singer/YouTube

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