Randy Orton has been one of the most respected and tenured WWE superstars, with a career that spans over two decades. The journey of the third-generation star began in 2002 as a top prospect on SmackDown and then transitioning into a member of Triple H’s faction, Evolution.
Two years, Orton got his first breakout moment that cemented his status as one of the future top stars of the company. However, it came at the expense of that WWE superstar who devoted his life to wrestling but had a tragic and horrific end, not for himself but for his wife and young son. The man was none other than Chris Benoit.
He was credited as one of the most captivating and highly skilled in-ring competitors in the world. Benoit even reached the pinnacle of WWE by winning the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania. However, the loss of his best friend and years of dangerous moves and shots to the head lead to Benoit committing a heinous crime that shook the world, including Randy Orton.
What was Randy Orton’s reaction upon hearing the tragic news about Chris Benoit?
Chris Benoit was supposed to make the WWE shows on the Texas circuit in June 2007, but he did not show all of the events. Following this, WWE sent personnel for a wellness check at his house in Georgia. It was after this that they found out that Chris, his wife Nancy, and son Daniel had passed away.
WWE honored the life of Chris Benoit with a three-hour tribute show. Following the end of that, the real details came out, which alleged that Benoit killed his wife and son and then committed suicide. This was horrific news for everyone in the wrestling world.
On the “Cheap Heat Productions Podcast,” former WWE Superstar Rory McAllister recalled the incident and Randy Orton’s reaction to the same. He revealed that Orton was at the airport when he learned about the incident. As soon as he found out what Chris Benoit did, Orton lost his mind, not able to digest the fact, and ran straight out of the airport.
Randy goes for coffee and he comes walking back and every screen in the center of the hub of the airport, ‘Murder-suicide, murder-suicide.’ Dude, Randy just lost his s**t. He literally just lost his s**t and f**king ran out the airport.
Coincidentally, it was Chris Benoit whom Randy Orton defeated at the 2004 SummerSlam to become the youngest World Champion in WWE history. The company has removed all references and records, including that match about Benoit, and distanced itself from him after learning about the hellacious crime he committed.
Is Randy Orton still a part of WWE?
Randy Orton is enjoying his veteran status in WWE and is still a member of the active roster. He has been battling multiple opponents and rising stars, including one NXT star he trained, who fans have labeled as Orton’s son.
However, The Viper has been off WWE television for a few months now. He was attacked by his rival, Kevin Owens, amidst their heated rivalry on SmackDown and was sent to the hospital. Orton has not been seen or heard from since that night.
With the road to WWE’s premier event, WrestleMania 41, underway, it remains to be seen whether Randy Orton will make his return and be positioned for a marquee match taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada this year.
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