Randy Orton didnt know what to expect at WrestleMania 41until he heard the fans erupt for Joe Hendry.
With Kevin Owens sidelined by a neck injury, Ortons 20th WrestleMania moment was suddenly in limbo. But when TNA World Champion Joe Hendry shockingly stepped out to answer the open challenge, everything changed. And in a backstage interview after the show, Orton made it clear the crowd helped shift his entire mindset.
Having fun, thats the part of what we do that sometimes you dont get to have as much fun out there, Orton told Cathy Kelley. Because the nerves, the adrenaline, its through the roof. You cant sleep nights before. But me not knowing who my opponent was going to be, all those nerves were gone, and I was able to soak up all that energy.
Orton said once he saw Hendry walk through the curtain, he wasnt quite sold. But the crowd changed that. Now, when I first heard the music, and I first saw who it was, I wasnt quite sure how it was going to feel about it, he admitted. But then I heard the peoples reaction to this guy, and they love him. They love him.
And yes, The Viper even gave a nod to Hendrys infamous spin move. I had to hit a couple of RKOs, as per the usual, but then I did my own little version of the Hendry spin around, Orton said with a grin. I dont know what he calls it, but Ill tell you what, I might have to steal that for next week. Maybe, well see when we get there.
Joe Hendry may have lost the matchbut he won over one of WWEs biggest legends in a matter of minutes.
Do you think Joe Hendry was the right opponent for Randy Orton at Wrestle Mania? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
