10 Quick WWE Fixes To Save Randy Orton
7. Taking A Punt
The Punt was so ironically beautiful in its simple brutality. The act of kicking his stricken opponents full force right in the head marked Orton as a complete psychopath - something he made credible with his undisputedly great character work. He had such an aura about him in early 2009. And, as awesome as his RKO remains, it just doesn't have the same impact.
Exhumed in 2017, a year in which such simple psychology no longer flies, the Punt would serve as a devastating counterpoint to how much content exists in a typical WWE match - and perhaps afford his babyface foes with a degree of sympathy they aren't through their smarmy scripted promos. If he were to slowly tease it, in the build-up to a heel turn, WWE could also achieve the unthinkable and get fans to anticipate an Orton appearance. At present, he receives a decent pop in arenas - but he is bereft of buzz. People enjoy him when he's there, but that's the thing. He's just there.
Increased concussion and CTE awareness renders this suggestion impractical. That said, there's a way of performing the move safely; just don't stick your face directly in the path of Orton's boot à la Vince McMahon circa 2009.