Former WWE World Champion Randy Orton recently made a trip to NXT. He faced up-and-coming star Je'Von Evans, but the match ended with a significant botch in the closing moments. WWE Hall of Famer Booker T shared his thoughts on the fan criticism that ensued following the match.
The Young OG went head-to-head with The Apex Predator on the October 8, 2024, installment of NXT. The match culminated in a dramatic attempt at a high-flying RKO finish, the one fans have witnessed Orton performing on stars such as Evan Bourne, Seth Rollins, and several others. But unfortunately, the execution was not perfect, and the two men botched the spot.
After the former WWE Champion delivered another RKO to end the match, Je'Von apologized to him in the ring. However, Orton demonstrated his sportsmanship as he raised his opponent's hand in recognition of the latter's efforts and provided words of encouragement. That said, fans have been critical of The Young OG's performance.
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On his Hall of Fame podcast, NXT commentator Booker T was questioned about whether he believed that the 20-year-old star deserved the criticism he received. The veteran defended Je'Von Evans against the criticism he received for his botched finish in a match with Randy Orton.
"No, I don't. I don't at all, just because that kid [Je'Von Evans] was in a high-pressure situation, going out there, and working with somebody like Randy Orton, a major player; a guy that's pretty much giving you the rub. Do I agree with the backlash? No, I don't," Booker said.
The WWE Hall of Famer argued that the mistake was understandable given the high-pressure situation and that The Young OG should not be penalized for one mistake. He added:
"Are you gonna make mistakes in a match? Yeah. Was the finish flawless like people were expecting it to be? No, it wasn’t. But is that one mistake gonna be a setback for this kid? I don’t think so at all." [From 24:09 to 24:52]
You can watch the entire episode below:
Randy Orton was betrayed on WWE SmackDown
In the October 11, 2024, episode of Friday Night SmackDown, Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens were on the verge of getting involved in a brawl. Although Nick Aldis had provided security for the two WWE Superstars, it was The Viper who intervened to prevent the altercation.
Randy Orton attempted to halt The Prizefighter's momentum, but the latter countered with a vicious elbow. In response, the 14-time World Champion delivered a devastating blow.
Later, backstage, it was revealed that KO had turned his back on The Viper by launching a brutal attack. The SmackDown GM summoned security to escort Owens away and requested medical attention for Orton.
The WWE Universe would have to wait for the upcoming episode of SmackDown to witness the drama among the three stars ahead of Crown Jewel PLE.
Please credit the Hall of Fame podcast and provide an H/T to Sportskeeda Wrestling for the transcription.
