WWE vs. NFL: Randy Orton Puts Tom Brady at "Top of the List" for an RKO
The worlds of professional wrestling and the National Football League have entered a heated public feud, ignited by a single four-letter word: "cute." WWE Hall of Famer Randy Orton has officially fired back at seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady after the retired quarterback appeared to diminish the physicality of pro wrestling during a viral podcast appearance.
The Spark: Brady's "Cute" Comment on Logan Paul's Podcast
The drama erupted on a recent episode of Logan Paul's Impaulsive podcast. While discussing the high-level athleticism required in the WWE ring, Brady smiled and delivered a backhanded compliment that immediately stirred controversy within the wrestling community. "It's cute," Brady stated, comparing WWE to the "real competition" of the NFL. "I love WWE, it's very cute, but honestly, this is like real football."
Orton's Swift Retaliation on ESPN's Get Up
It did not take long for the "Viper" to strike back. Appearing on ESPN's Get Up on February 23, 2026, Randy Orton was asked if there was anyone left on his infamous "Legend Killer" bucket list. Orton, a 14-time World Champion, did not hesitate to name the G.O.A.T. of football.
"I did see a recent podcast Logan Paul put on and Tom Brady had a few things to say about pro wrestling. I think he called it quote-unquote 'cute,'" Orton told host Peter Schrager. "I've never met him, but I'd love to meet Tom and hit him with an RKO. I'd say he'd be at the top of the list."
WWE Stars Rally Against Brady's Remarks
Orton is not the only one feeling the sting of Brady's comments. Current WWE stars have also voiced their opinions, adding fuel to the fire. Liv Morgan suggested that while a WWE star could hold their own on a football field, most NFL players would not last a day in a wrestling ring. World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk has also chimed in, defending the athleticism and rigor of professional wrestling.
Timing and Speculation: Marketing or Genuine Beef?
However, the timing of this feud has led many savvy fans to wonder if there is more than just hurt feelings at play. Brady is currently heavily involved in promoting the Fanatics Flag Football Classic in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, set for March 21. Meanwhile, WWE is full-steam ahead on the road to WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, a city where Brady holds a minority stake in the Raiders.
Whether this is a genuine clash of egos between two sports icons or a masterclass in cross-platform marketing, the buzz is undeniable. Randy Orton has built a legendary career on hitting the RKO "out of nowhere." If Tom Brady decides to step inside the ropes to prove just how "cute" the sport really is, he might find himself looking at the lights faster than a blitzing linebacker.
