You may recall the brief Twitter beef between Randy Orton and Tommoaso Ciampa last week. It wasn't anything serious, but The Viper did aim a few backhanded compliments at NXT, which, understandably, pissed The Blackheart off.
Orton actually got the last word, but when he was asked about the social media spat during a media call this week promoting Backlash, he elaborated on his issues with the black and gold brand.
“The NXT guys worry me because I see them doing such highly physical things during their matches. They do so many physically impressive things, but those things are dangerous and they wear and tear on your career,” he said. “I’m not gonna name names, but a lot of NXT guys work like this. It was just trainwreck after trainwreck after trainwreck,” he explained. “It was all very impressive, but when it’s all said and done and the match is over, I couldn’t remember anything that happened because it was all movement.”
This is a common criticism of modern wrestling, and while it is valid in some respects, NXT has always towed the line between more fast-paced, hard-hitting style and ensuring that the fans are invested in a solid story. So while Orton's view is one shared by many veterans, it sounds like he hasn't actually watched much of the product.
The Legend Killer also suggested (well, flat out stated) that Ciampa needed to learn how to tell stories in the ring, which... yeah, that's just straight up horseshit.
“[Ciampa] needs to learn how to tell stories and slow it down and not think that the fans want to see him kill himself. Whatever Vince gives me to do, whatever my job is on that particular situation, I’m gonna do it. If it’s working with Tommaso Ciampa, then I’d be all for it because I think he’s very talented.”
What do you guys make of Orton's comments? Be sure to tune in to Backlash this Sunday to see the Viper take on Edge in the "greatest wrestling match ever" (lol).