Orton Responds to Brady: “If You Want An RKO, Call Me”

Orton Fires Back at Brady’s ‘Cute’ Remark, Eyes 15th World Title

Randy Orton, a 14-time world champion and a veteran presence in WWE for over two decades, is firing back at recent comments made by NFL legend Tom Brady. When asked about Brady’s perceived dismissal of professional wrestling as merely “cute,” Orton didn’t hold back, issuing a direct challenge: “Tom, if you want to take an RKO, dude. Call Pat. Pat will call me.” The seasoned superstar, looking in arguably the best shape of his career as he heads into the Elimination Chamber, expressed his current mindset: “I am just having fun.” This lighthearted approach, however, doesn’t diminish his competitive fire, as Orton is firmly focused on winning the Elimination Chamber and heading to WrestleMania to pursue his 15th world championship.

The Evolution of an Entrance and an Icon

Orton’s journey in WWE, which began in May 2000, has seen him evolve from a young prodigy to one of the most enduring figures in sports entertainment. He reflected on the unexpected phenomenon of the WWE Universe singing his entrance music, a stark contrast to his earlier days when the song, used since 2008, was met with silence. “We were in Leon, France… and that’s where it started. Nobody ever sang it,” Orton recalled, crediting the fans for transforming his entrance into a signature moment.

His longevity is a testament to his adaptability and dedication. After suffering significant injuries early in his career, including double shoulder surgeries before the age of 25 and a spinal fusion, Orton recognized the need for a sustainable approach. “I had to kind of go back to ground zero and realize if I want to do this for any length of time, have any longevity… I got to figure out how I can get longevity out of the sport,” he explained. This philosophy has allowed him to maintain a high level of performance and relevance for over two decades.

The RKO, Orton’s iconic finishing move, has become synonymous with his career. “It’s not the move, it’s me that’s doing the move that makes it fancy, baby. It’s the RKO,” he stated, highlighting how the move has transcended its origins, becoming a viral sensation embraced by fans and even other athletes. He acknowledged the move’s lineage, giving a nod to Diamond Dallas Page’s Diamond Cutter and the Ace Crusher.

Navigating the Modern Wrestling Landscape

Orton also touched upon the changing dynamics of the wrestling business, particularly the shift away from the old-school camaraderie that involved late-night gatherings and a more carefree lifestyle. “The guys now are smarter. They’re more interested in getting up early and training the next day,” he observed, contrasting it with his own era where “camaraderie was glorious” but could also lead to significant trouble in today’s hyper-vigilant social media age.

Regarding the Netflix series “Young Rock,” Orton admitted a mixed reaction. Initially resistant, he found that it helped non-wrestling fans gain a greater appreciation for the industry. “I hate it. I felt like I was an old wrestler whenever I… hated everything about it. … But then I watch a couple episodes. I’m like, I can see how people who aren’t wrestling fans might watch this and have more respect,” he said, ultimately acknowledging its role in showcasing the demanding nature of professional wrestling.

Looking Ahead: The Elimination Chamber and Beyond

With the Elimination Chamber just around the corner, Orton is confident. “If you’re a betting man, um, definitely bet on me. I’m winning that thing.” His immediate goal is to capture the championship and headline WrestleMania, a stage he’s graced numerous times. “I don’t know how many more Chambers I got. I don’t know how many more Wrestlemanias I got,” he admitted, emphasizing his desire to “keep stacking them up” while he can.

Orton’s ability to mentor and guide the next generation, while still competing at the highest level, is a hallmark of his current phase. He finds fulfillment in helping younger talent, recognizing that while some may not heed his advice, others, like Javon Evans and Trick Williams, are eager to learn. “I’m Randy Orton. Yeah. Sometimes I got to remind myself that I,” he stated, underscoring his unique position in the locker room.

As Orton prepares for the Elimination Chamber, the wrestling world watches, anticipating another chapter in the storied career of “The Viper.” His challenge to Tom Brady serves as a reminder that while he may be having fun, the competitive fire and the pursuit of greatness remain as potent as ever.

Source: "If Tom Wants To Take An RKO, Call Me" Randy Orton Responds To Tom Brady Calling WWE 'Cute' (YouTube)