Randy Orton made his WWE in-ring comeback in November 2023 after a severe injury had raised doubts about his wrestling future. In an exclusive interview, the SmackDown star disclosed that if his wrestling career had ended, he would have likely moved into a behind-the-scenes role.
Orton had taken a break from wrestling in May 2022 to undergo back surgery. Although doctors advised the 14-time World Champion to retire, he managed to return by consulting professionals who had experience working with MMA fighters.
Sportskeeda Wrestling Senior Editor Bill Apter recently interviewed the Orton family during Bob Orton Jr.’s induction into the St. Louis Wrestling Hall of Fame. When discussing his potential retirement, The Viper emphasized that he would not have left WWE.
“I would have been involved in some way, shape, or form with the WWE. I think, gosh, I might be wrong, but I might be the only guy that’s only ever wrestled for one company his entire career. I could be wrong. So I don’t see any reason why I gotta leave. I see being a part of the WWE family from here on out,” Orton said. [0:34 – 0:57]
Orton added that he would likely have trained wrestlers or produced matches if he retired:
“And if I wouldn’t have been able to go back to wrestling, I would have been a coach, trained, done something. Maybe an on-the-road producer.” [0:57 – 1:05]