A WWE Hall of Famer has recommended that Randy Orton undergo a heel turn before possibly reclaiming a world championship. This suggestion comes amid discussions on how to better utilize Orton’s talents in WWE, especially considering his last world title victory occurred during the ThunderDome era in 2020. The focus on a Randy Orton heel turn highlights the potential for fresh storytelling as the veteran prepares for another championship run.
Calls for Randy Orton’s Character Shift Growing Among Legends
In recent months, several WWE legends including Ric Flair and Jake Roberts have voiced concerns about how WWE has been using Randy Orton. Mark Henry, also a Hall of Famer, joined the chorus by emphasizing that Orton’s strengths are best showcased when he plays a villain rather than a hero. Henry pointed out Orton’s unique ability to portray a ruthless heel, suggesting this persona fits him naturally and resonates better with audiences.
Mark Henry Explains Why Orton Should Embrace the Heel Role
Speaking to TMZ, Mark Henry elaborated on why Randy Orton should turn heel instead of pursuing the world title as a babyface. He expressed:
“I’m one of those people too. But I wouldn’t want Randy to be champion as good guy Randy.” – Mark Henry, WWE Hall of Famer
Henry went on to describe the story possibilities with Orton back as a villain, saying:
“I want Randy… the story is tailor made. Have Randy come in now and start punting people again, RKO’ing people’s grandmothers and children. Have him stomping people. Let Randy be Randy.” – Mark Henry, WWE Hall of Famer
He also noted that it is hard to find a clearer example of a wrestler being better suited as a heel than Orton. Additionally, Henry mentioned the parallels between Randy Orton and John Cena’s careers, stating:
I think Randy wants to be in the same regard as Cena. He deserves it too. But while Cena is doing that, you can’t actively have two people doing the same story. – Mark Henry, WWE Hall of Famer
Henry’s comments suggest a strategic approach in WWE’s booking, where only one top star plays the heroic world champion role at a time to keep the narrative fresh and distinct.
Current Storylines Point Toward a Major Breakup to Set Up Orton’s Next Chapter
On the upcoming SmackDown episode, Orton will team with WWE Champion Cody Rhodes in a match against The Vision’s Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed. Over the past several months, Orton and Rhodes have maintained an on-again, off-again alliance that many fans and insiders believe is building toward a dramatic split. This anticipated rivalry is expected to lead to Orton challenging Rhodes for the WWE title, potentially as a heel.
The Impact of a Heel Turn on Randy Orton’s Career and WWE Storytelling
A successful heel turn for Randy Orton could reinvigorate his character and WWE’s main event scene, especially as John Cena’s time as an active top star winds down. Orton, a 14-time world champion, would bring fresh excitement to his matches and rivalries by returning to his more ruthless persona. WWE fans and analysts see this shift as an opportunity for creative storytelling, boosting Orton’s presence in a way that aligns with his natural abilities and legacy. How WWE handles this transition might shape the company’s narrative direction for months ahead.
