Was randy orton in the military?

Was Randy Orton in the Military?

Randy Orton, the current WWE superstar, has a career spanning over two decades, with a plethora of accolades and achievements. While many fans know his story, few may know about his pre-WWE life, including his brief stint in the US military. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of Orton’s military experience.

Early Life and College

Born on April 1, 1980, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Randy Orton began his wrestling journey at an early age. His grandfather, Bob Orton Jr., was a well-known wrestler, and his father, Bob Orton Sr., was a professional wrestling promoter. Orton began training with his father in the late 1990s and made his WWE debut in 2002.

Before joining the wrestling world, Orton briefly attended Jamestown College in Jamestown, North Dakota. Unfortunately, he didn’t quite fit in and left after a year.

Why Randy Orton Enlisted in the Military

In an interview with The Independent, Orton revealed that he enlisted in the United States Army in 2001, shortly after completing his college stint. The reasons behind his decision to join the military were personal and financial. Orton stated:

"I was basically a punk kid from Iowa, and I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life… I was trying to do something to make my father proud, and I needed a job."

Orton joined the Army Reserve 372nd Military Police Company in Des Moines, Iowa. He served for nearly a year, completing Basic Combat Training (Boot Camp) and Military Police Training.

Military Service

Orton’s military service was cut short due to a lack of commitment and motivation. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, he described his experience:

"I hated it. I didn’t like the structure, and I didn’t like taking orders… I didn’t have the motivation to get through it."

After his honorable discharge, Orton returned to wrestling, citing that his military experience played a significant role in his growth as a performer.

Comparison to Other Military Backgrounds in WWE

Randy Orton is not the only WWE Superstar with a military background. Some notable examples include:

While Orton’s military experience was brief, it’s clear that others have had more extensive service.

Impact on Career

Orton’s short-lived military career has had a lasting impact on his wrestling persona and performances. His experience as a military policeman has given him a unique perspective and a deeper understanding of character development. This has, in turn, influenced his in-ring work and his overall character evolution.

Orton has spoken publicly about how his military service prepared him for the physicality and mental toughness required for professional wrestling. His post-WWE accomplishments, such as his multiple world championship reigns, can be attributed, in part, to the discipline and mental toughness he developed during his time in the military.

Conclusion

Randy Orton’s brief stint in the US military has left an indelible mark on his wrestling career and personal life. While it may not have been his most successful or fulfilling venture, it has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping him into the Superstar he is today. In a world where wrestling stars often have dramatic entrances, it’s refreshing to explore the lesser-known aspects of their lives, including those that have shaped them for the better.

In Randy Orton: RKO Outta Nowhere, an episode from WWE’s Legends’ House, Orton candidly discusses his time in the military, and it’s clear that he’s grateful for the lessons he learned and the skills he developed during his time in service.

For any aspiring wrestlers or those exploring the world of professional wrestling, Randy Orton’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and self-discovery. So, the next time you watch him deliver a scorching RKO to his opponents, remember: his military experience was only the beginning of an unforgettable journey.