Veteran WWE star Rikishi praised Randy Orton after Orton’s surprise turn on WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. Rikishi says Orton is a top performer and that Cody may have reached the limit of his run as a good guy.
Rikishi applauds Orton’s career and character
On his podcast ‘Off The Top’, Rikishi spoke highly of Randy Orton. He called Orton an example of longevity in wrestling and said he has been a mainstay for many years. Rikishi said Orton should write a book called ‘Longevity’ because of how long he has stayed at the top.
Rikishi also praised Orton’s role behind the scenes. He said Orton is well respected in the locker room because he helps younger wrestlers and teaches them. According to Rikishi, Orton’s behavior inside and outside the locker room makes him a leader.
Orton’s quick turn and heel skills
Rikishi said Orton can switch to a bad guy at any moment. He praised Orton for how quickly he can become a heel and how convincing he is in that role. Rikishi believes this skill makes Orton a strong choice to challenge Cody Rhodes.
He added that Orton can push Cody to his limits. Rikishi said the new Orton-Cody situation is something needed for WrestleMania. He thinks Orton can test Rhodes and give the match real heat.
Cody Rhodes: time for a change?
Rikishi noted that Cody Rhodes has been the face of the company for a long time. He called Cody a role model and said he is good for business. Still, Rikishi said Cody has ‘ran his course’ as a babyface and that a change might be useful.
He suggested Cody could take a break after WrestleMania. Rikishi believes time off could recharge Cody and open the door for fresh ideas, including a possible character shift when he returns.
Cody’s view and next steps
Despite the talk, Cody Rhodes has said he does not plan to turn heel soon. He has explained that changing to a bad guy would require a major change to his character and presentation.
Rikishi’s comments add to the debate about the future of both men. Orton’s turn has grabbed attention and set up a big match idea for WrestleMania. Whether Cody stays a champion as a babyface or makes a move to the dark side, fans will be watching closely.
