When Randy Orton revealed the biggest regret of his WWE career: “That look of disappointment on my father’s face”
Despite his infamous reputation for unpredictable backstage behavior in his younger days, Randy Orton has still managed to gain the respect and admiration of numerous professionals over the last decade. As an idol for not just wrestling fans, but also for his fellow wrestlers, The Viper’s reputation has grown and solidified over time.
Despite many talented wrestling dynasties emerging in WWE over the years, Randy Orton is a notable member of one. As a third-generation superstar, he continued the legacy of his grandfather, Bob Orton, and father, Bob Orton Jr. However, there was one unfortunate moment in The Viper’s career that involved his father during the 2005 Hall of Fame ceremony.
In 2005, the Hall of Fame ceremony was filled with iconic figures in the world of wrestling, including Hulk Hogan, Roddy Piper, Jimmy Hart, The Iron Sheik, Mr. Wonderful Paul Orndroff, Nikolai Volkoff, and Cowboy Bob Orton Jr. Orton Jr. made the decision to have his son induct him into the prestigious club, but Randy felt that he was not ready for the event.
During an episode of WWE Evil, Randy Orton admitted that he had spent the previous night with a group of individuals he knew he shouldn’t have been associating with. As a result, he was not fully present during his father’s induction.
Despite speaking from the heart, the former world champion admitted that he was unable to adequately prepare a speech that would do justice to his father. As a result, the Hall of Famer’s disappointment was evident.
“I had not come up with a speech. I spoke from the heart, but I didn’t do my father justice. That look of disappointment on my father’s face! If I have any regrets as far as my career goes, that’s probably it!”said Randy Orton. [H/T: Essentially Sports]
Which WWE legend did Randy Orton let down at the 2005 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony?
It was not only his father that The Viper disappointed during the 2005 Hall of Fame, but also The Undertaker who was let down before their WrestleMania 21 match.
During a 2020 episode of WWE Untold, Orton disclosed that he and The Undertaker had planned to practice for their match on the morning of the 2005 Hall of Fame ceremony. The Undertaker arrived promptly, accompanied by Bob Orton Jr., John Laurinaitis, and Ricky Steamboat.
Randy disclosed that he had arrived just as the others were preparing to depart.
The Undertaker’s current opinion on Randy Orton
Despite initial difficulties with The Deadman, The Viper has grown and developed over the years, earning nothing but praise from his co-workers. He is now regarded as one of the best by The Deadman, a Hall of Famer.
Could Randy Orton potentially add another gold to his resume at The Showcase of The Immortals? With a Triple Threat Match lined up at WrestleMania XL against US Champion Logan Paul and Kevin Owens, the multi-time world champion will have to wait and see.
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