Former NXT Champion Reacts To Randy Orton Match Challenge

A dominant former NXT Champion has reacted to a recent challenge from Randy Orton, noting their interest in this dream match.

Randy Orton made his name in WWE as the “Legend Killer”, so the irony in the Viper’s legendary status isn’t lost on the fans. Orton has a huge target on his back from wrestlers looking to make a name for themselves.

Surprisingly  it was Orton that called out one of NXT’s most dominant competitors. Orton challenged former NXT Champion Karrion Kross to a match a few weeks ago, telling Kross to “get yo ass up here” to the main roster.

Kross has revealed that he didn’t take this challenge too seriously. Speaking with FOX Sports, Kross noted that while he was extremely flattered, he knew Orton was kidding around.

Kross pointed out that a lot of fans and wrestlers treat social media too seriously and thinks that you should be more laid back online. He also jokingly said that he thinks he missed a good night out, given the randomness of Orton’s tweet.

Here is the full quote:

“I laughed about it because I had woke up that morning, did cardio, came back, and then I turned my phone on and that was the first thing I saw on social media. My first, immediate reaction, because I saw what time it was tweeted, I was like, ‘What?!? What is this?’ It was very late in the morning. I was like, ‘I clearly missed a very good time last night.’ But, yeah, it was very flattering and I thought it was awesome, and I think the world of him.

“I’d even said this before, I think more people should be having fun on social media rather than keeping it like this overly serious, overly sensitive battle ground. I don’t know him personally, but I do know that the guy has a sense of humor. I’ve been aware of that for a time and as flattering as it was, I know he’s only kidding around.

“But, I can’t wait to work with him in the future. I’m definitely interested in doing that. In order for him to hit the RKO, he’s going to have to give me his back, and a lot of bad things can happen. Just thought I’d throw that out there for peace of mind.”

On the latest episode of NXT, Kross pinned Santos Escobar after a running forearm to the back of his head. Given that Kross’ other signature move is a rear naked choke, he has plenty of moves in his arsenal to neutralise Orton’s RKO.

Since his first NXT match in April last year, Kross has remained undefeated. He won the NXT Championship from Keith Lee in August 2020, but had to relinquish the title due to injury.

What are your thoughts on the above story? Let us know in the comments on Twitter or Facebook.

• Karrion Kross
• Randy Orton
• nxt
• wwe

Share this article with friends