On the latest episode of “Kliq This,” WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash questioned why WWE has not featured Randy Orton more prominently in the world title picture, theorizing that Orton’s own laid-back mentality might be the reason.
During a discussion about the current landscape of WWE and top stars like Roman Reigns, Nash pivoted to Orton, praising the 14-time World Champion’s resume.
“I don’t know why they haven’t used Randy,” Nash said. “I think when you look at Randy’s body of work as the youngest champion, and how long he’s been there… he’s got 14 World Championships. It would take nothing for him to fucking become an 18-time champion… and surpass the 17”.
Despite the potential for Orton to break the all-time record held by Ric Flair and John Cena, Nash suggested that Orton likely isn’t lobbying for the spot backstage. Nash described Orton as a unique talent who views wrestling strictly as a business rather than a vanity project.
“Randy’s never been a mark,” Nash said. “That’s probably Randy’s biggest fucking drawback. Randy is not a fucking mark. Randy just wants to get paid, hang out with his wife and kids, and if you don’t have a fucking spot for me, and you’re still gonna pay me and I can sit at home… I’m cool”.
Nash attributed Orton’s perspective to his upbringing as a second-generation wrestler. He noted that Orton isn’t necessarily like him, but rather a product of his father, “Cowboy” Bob Orton.
“He grew up in that… watching his Dad work with Andre,” Nash said.
To illustrate the toughness and “different breed” mentality of the Orton family, Nash shared a story about running into “Cowboy” Bob at a wrestling event years ago. Nash found the legend sitting at a bar with his feet up, drinking a beer.
“I said, ‘What you been up to?’ He said… ‘I ain’t getting around too good… I’m in pain,'” Nash recalled. “I said, ‘Why? What’s up?’ He goes, ‘Ah, fuck. Last week I got my knees replaced'”.
Nash was stunned that Bob Orton was casually drinking at a bar just seven days after major double knee surgery.
“Motherfucker a week ago had his knees replaced. He’s fucking sitting with his feet up on the fucking barstool,” Nash laughed. “That’s like… they were a different breed”.
Orton’s Legacy Nash’s comments come as Orton continues to be a fixture on WWE television, though often outside the immediate main event title picture. Nash argued that Orton’s legacy is already secure, and his willingness to step back and let others take the spotlight—provided the check clears—sets him apart from peers who might fight harder for screen time.
“If I can go to the gym in my house, I’m cool,” Nash said, channeling Orton’s mindset.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Kliq This TV with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
