WWE legend "The Viper," Randy Orton, has returned to listening to the voices in his head and recently turned heel after kicking Undisputed WWE Champion "The American Nightmare," Cody Rhodes, low during a contract signing. Just days after this heel turn, Orton was seen talking on the phone to someone believed to be encouraging him to embrace those voices he had been suppressing. This person was revealed to be Pat McAfee, who played a role in helping Orton revert to his ruthless persona.
According to PWInsider.com, Aleister Black was initially proposed to help Orton reclaim his Apex Predator character. The report mentioned that a creative pitch made back in January involved Black tormenting Orton, compelling the 14-time World Champion to revert to his infamous ruthless persona.
Mike Johnson added that the plan for WrestleMania weekend was for Orton to face Black in a one-on-one match, likely resulting in Orton's loss after he hesitated to use his Punt Kick. Following that, Orton was expected to attack Rhodes with the Punt Kick at WrestleMania, thereby reestablishing himself as The Apex Predator.
Earlier this year, Orton and Black participated in a brief program where Black consistently played mind games with Orton. They faced each other in a match on the February 20th episode of SmackDown, which Black won with interference from then-Undisputed WWE Champion Drew McIntyre.
