In an interview with Philly.com, Co-Creator of Bane Chuck Dixon discusses the creation of the character and his different incarnations in the media, including Wrestler Robert Swenson's performance in Batman and Robin (stating that in that film,the character was an "imbecile"). He also talks about what he thought of actor Tom Hardy's portrayal of the character in The Dark Knight Rises.
"Apparently, Warner Bros. was pressuring Nolan to use the Riddler, which would have been too similar to the Joker," Dixon continued. "Plus, the Riddler, like the Joker and so many of Batman's villains, is no challenge against him in a mano-a-mano fistfight. Batman will wipe the floor with him in that situation.
I am beyond glad that Nolan had the juice in Hollywood to stick to his guns," he added. "From interviews I've seen, it's clear he understands the character and he gets what we were going for. It's not exactly what I created, but he's physically imposing and Tom Hardy is one hell of an actor. I can't imagine Bane being better portrayed."
You can read the full interview with Dixon by clicking HERE!