WWE Rumor Roundup - News on real-life heat between Seth Rollins and top Superstar, Big name going to AEW? Vince McMahon's changed opinion about Randy Orton - 9th January 2021

#3. Vince McMahon's changed opinion about Randy Orton in WWE

Jim Ross opened up about Randy Orton's WWE signing on the Grilling JR podcast's latest edition. The veteran announcer revealed that Randy Orton was surprisingly a very controversial signing for the company as Vince McMahon wasn't sure about The Viper's prospects in WWE.

"He [Randy Orton] was, believe it or not; he was somewhat of a controversial hire for us."

Vince McMahon, a problem child with a military school background, had qualms about Randy Orton due to The Legend Killer's past. Orton was also a problem child who signed up for the Marines and later discharged.

"Vince was the problem child that went to military school, and Randy was the problem child that went to the Marines and got discharged. Big time [Randy Orton's past was a problem for Vince McMahon]."

Jim Ross revealed that he convinced Vince McMahon to give Randy Orton a chance as the Apex Predator was a third-generation talent from a family that produced great in-ring workers. Vince McMahon changed his stance, and the rest, as they say, is history.

"But, you know, it's one of those deals where you say, look, I said, 'Vince, you got a second chance, so why not this kid?' He's only a third-generation performer, and both his father and his grandfather were outstanding in-ring guys." H/t Danny Hart of Sportskeeda

Thankfully for all involved parties, Randy Orton lived up to all the hype by putting together a WWE career filled with several accomplishments and accolades.