Randy Orton has successfully transitioned from the brash, arrogant “Legend Killer” to one of the most respected and revered veterans in the WWE locker room. Following a monumental victory inside the steel structure at the 2026 Elimination Chamber, the 45-year-old superstar opened up about how much he cherishes his current position within the company.
“It Fills My Lungs Up With Fresh Air”
Speaking on the Elimination Chamber post-show panel, Orton expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to guide the next generation of professional wrestlers. “I’ll be honest, it’s quite fulfilling,” Orton explained. He specifically highlighted his interactions with rising stars like Je’Von Evans, Trick Williams, and NXT developmental prospect Myles Bourne.
“There’s a lot of guys that I’m excited to talk to and I can tell they’re excited to listen,” Orton continued. “Just last night I was able to talk with a couple of young guys and I could tell that they were really excited to hear what I had to say and their eyes got kind wide open and were like ‘Oh wow, this Randy knows his s***.’ And I do! I have a lot to give back.” Orton noted that this mentorship role reinvigorates him, adding, “If I can do it ten more years, I will, God willing.”
While he is happy to teach, Orton proved on Saturday that he is still a lethal threat in the ring. The Viper won the Men’s Elimination Chamber match, securing his spot at WrestleMania 42. He achieved the victory by last eliminating Cody Rhodes, capitalizing on a crucial distraction caused by WWE Champion Drew McIntyre. The controversial finish infuriated SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis, who immediately announced on the post-show that McIntyre will be forced to defend the WWE Championship against Rhodes on the upcoming episode of Friday Night SmackDown, leaving Orton’s ultimate WrestleMania opponent in question.
