Ric Flair Slams WWE for Wasting Randy Orton: Is The Viper Being Buried by Creative?

Wrestling royalty Ric Flair made waves with a blunt assessment of WWE’s current booking. He insists Randy Orton, a proven superstar, is being left on the shelf despite still delivering elite performances. Flair’s words stung, especially given how close he believes Orton comes to his own daughter Charlotte in the ring, timing, and presence. Creative under Triple H seems to be sidelining The Viper. This article dives into Flair’s fiery comments, examines Orton’s recent booking, and explores whether WWE is squandering one of its most reliable talents.

Ric Flair Doesn’t Hold Back, Calls Out Creative Team

Ric Flair took zero prisoners in a recent interview with The Escapist Magazine. He praised his daughter Charlotte as the best wrestler in the world and then added this: when Orton is on, healthy, and dialed in, no one comes close to Charlotte in terms of timing and ring IQ, except Randy Orton. By that same measure, Flair argued, Orton deserves far more spotlight than he currently receives.

Flair suggested Orton may have inadvertently burnt a bridge backstage. His refusal to hold back, speaking his mind, may not sit well with decision makers. He added simply: Orton is not afraid to speak up, and that is not always popular. 

That level of candor, calling out Triple H’s leadership by implication, is rare considering the legend has worked with him.

Recent Booking Doesn’t Reflect Elite Status

Orton remains featured on WWE programming, currently embroiled in a SmackDown feud with Drew McIntyre. Their rivalry is a solid spotlight, but it fails to place Orton in the must-see main event status. Fans have voiced frustration over recent booking decisions. One flashpoint: the rumor of a match pitched against Nick Aldis at SummerSlam has sparked backlash. Social media erupted with comments questioning why Orton would face a part-time GM rather than a marquee rival or title pursuit. 

He did argue his own WrestleMania 41 match, pushing for the Joe Hendry appearance after Kevin Owens’s injury. That moment paid off with a memorable surprise, showing Orton still has pull and creative instincts.

That mix of premium moments and odd bookings makes you wonder: is WWE using Orton when it suits them, and ignoring him otherwise?

What This Means for Orton’s Legacy and WWE’s Future