Randy Orton is "real positive influence" in locker room; top WWE Superstar breaks character to praise The Viper

Randy Orton's impact on WWE extends beyond his in-ring achievements as he is widely respected for his leadership skills within the locker room. Ahead of SmackDown, a former rival broke character to praise The Viper immensely.

Kevin Owens and Orton teamed up several times throughout 2024. The duo even defeated former Tag Team Champions Austin Theory and Grayson Waller of the A-Town Down Under. At the same time, KO and The Apex Predator lost to The Bloodline's Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa on an episode of SmackDown. Their partnership disbanded after Owens turned heel on Randy Orton on the October 11 installment of the blue brand because of Cody Rhodes.

During an interview with Mail Sport, The Prizefighter broke his on-screen heel persona and recent show of brutality towards the 44-year-old and stated that he respected Randy Orton more than any other WWE Superstar.

"As far as Randy goes, there is no-one in WWE that I respect as much I respect Randy. That is not a knock on anyone else, that is just a credit to how much I respect Randy Orton," he said. [H/T: Daily Mail]

Kevin Owens further praised the 14-time World Champion, highlighting his positive influence on the locker room. The former United States Champion claimed that Orton's presence motivated others to earn his respect.

"He is just a real positive influence in our locker room. When he wasn't here, you could feel it. When Randy Orton is around, people are on their toes more because they want Randy to respect them. Randy's respect is worth a lot," he added. [H/T: Daily Mail]

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What happened between WWE Superstars Randy Orton and Kevin Owens?

The Prizefighter was set to face Orton at Crown Jewel on November 2. However, the match never commenced. Instead, the two superstars engaged in a chaotic brawl that spilled through the arena before the bout was finally called off.

On the following episode of Friday Night SmackDown, The Apex Predator was hospitalized after Kevin Owens crossed a line and delivered a devastating Piledriver on his former friend.

Fans will have to wait and see if The Legend Killer will make a surprise return at Saturday Night's Main Event this weekend to potentially cost Kevin Owens the Undisputed WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes.