While discussing the recent release and shocking return of R-Truth (Ron Killings), WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi praised the veteran superstar’s talent and career but revealed that he “hated” some of the past creative that was written for him. Speaking on his “Rikishi Fatu Off The Top” podcast, he specifically took issue with promos that he felt played on racial stereotypes.
Rikishi first expressed his shock at the timing of R-Truth’s initial release announcement, coming right after a main event match with John Cena. He praised Truth as an “OG in the industry” who “can still work, can still hang with the best of them,” and is an all-around “good guy.” He then reflected on Truth’s career and some of the material he was given.
“Everybody thought that, okay, Ron Killings, the way they built him, certain promos, I didn’t agree,” Rikishi stated. “Certain promos that they had him shoot, right, as if, like, you know, he was a black guy that didn’t understand, right? That was this. There was that for me, I hated that, you know, I hated, I hated that. That was the type of promo that, you know, that whoever creative has that was the best they had to write for.”
Despite his dislike for that aspect of the character, Rikishi lauded R-Truth for his professionalism in handling the material. “But guess what? Ronnie did it with a smile. Ronnie… he understands the game,” Rikishi said. “The most realist thing to him was that bag [money] getting that every week. And so, 17 plus years a career run like that… truth, you the winner, man, you the winner.”
Rikishi also praised John Cena for reportedly advocating for R-Truth to have a high-profile match before his announced departure. “Big shout out to John Cena for going to bat for Truth,” he said. “That’s just sign of OG, respect to the next OG.”
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Rikishi Fatu Off The Top with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
