Professional wrestling and internet culture collided in spectacular fashion at the premiere of IShowSpeed’s new YouTube series, “Speed Goes Pro,” when the viral content creator attempted to hit WWE icon Randy Orton with the latter’s signature RKO finisher. While the move—famously billed as coming “Outta Nowhere”—ultimately missed its mark, the scene drew cheers and laughter from the crowd, underscoring the unique crossover between online fame and WWE stardom.
The Stage Is Set: “Speed Goes Pro” Welcomes WWE Talent
“Speed Goes Pro” is a six-part YouTube series showcasing IShowSpeed, a YouTuber renowned for his larger-than-life personality and sporting antics, as he tries his hand at various professional disciplines, from football with Tom Brady to gymnastics with Suni Lee. For its wrestling-focused episode, the show tapped one of the most recognizable faces in WWE history: 14-time world champion Randy Orton.
Orton, along with fellow WWE Superstars Drew McIntyre and Sheamus, attended the premiere event, lending major wrestling credibility to the digital project[1]. The presence of these athletes not only excited fans in attendance but also signaled WWE’s continued embrace of collaborations with internet celebrities, a trend that has grown increasingly common in recent years.
The RKO Attempt Heard ‘Round the Internet
Midway through the event, IShowSpeed saw his opportunity to make wrestling history—or at least a viral moment. Channeling his inner WWE Superstar, Speed attempted to sneak up on Orton and deliver the RKO, Orton’s world-famous finishing move. The RKO, known for its sudden, devastating impact, has been a hallmark of Orton’s two-decade career. However, true to his veteran instincts, Orton deftly avoided the move, resulting in a lighthearted exchange that had both men laughing[1].
Though the RKO didn’t connect, the moment was pure entertainment gold. Cameras captured the playful tension before and after the stunt, and the audience responded with a mix of excitement and amusement. According to a WWE insider present at the event, “The vibe backstage was electric. Randy loves a good surprise, and Speed brought the energy. Everyone knew it was all in good fun, but you could tell there was genuine excitement in the room.”
A History of Collaboration—and One Memorable RKO
This wasn’t the first time IShowSpeed and Randy Orton shared the spotlight. Earlier in 2024, at WrestleMania XL, Orton famously delivered a real RKO to Speed during a backstage segment, generating massive online buzz and millions of views across social platforms. Speed’s appearance in the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, where he was eliminated by Bron Breakker, further cemented his status as a crossover favorite among wrestling fans[1].
Sources close to the WWE creative team noted that the company has been actively seeking ways to integrate digital influencers into its programming, recognizing the value of their massive, engaged audiences. “There’s a real appetite for these kinds of moments,” said a source. “WWE wants to keep things fresh, and bringing in someone like Speed is a great way to do that.”
What This Means for WWE—And for Online Creators
The crossover between WWE and internet personalities like IShowSpeed isn’t just good for social media metrics—it’s a savvy business move. WWE’s audience skews younger and increasingly digital, making collaborations with viral stars a natural fit. For creators, appearing alongside WWE legends offers legitimacy and exposure to a passionate, global fanbase.
The “Speed Goes Pro” premiere demonstrated how seamlessly internet culture and professional wrestling can mesh. The event was a masterclass in cross-promotion, blending athletic prowess with the spontaneity and humor that define both the WWE Universe and YouTube’s top creators.
Looking Ahead: More Crossover Moments on the Horizon?
Speaking to the crowd after the RKO attempt, Randy Orton hinted that more collaborative efforts between himself and IShowSpeed are in the works. “We’ll see what happens in a couple of weeks,” Orton teased, sparking speculation about future appearances, special matches, or even a surprise cameo on WWE programming[1].
A WWE source hinted that discussions are underway for additional crossover events, though nothing concrete has been announced. “There’s definitely interest in doing more with Speed and other digital creators,” the source said. “The fans love it, and so do we. It’s a win-win.”
Why This Matters for Fans
For WWE fans, moments like IShowSpeed’s RKO attempt are more than just viral clips—they’re a reminder of wrestling’s enduring ability to surprise and entertain. The blurring of lines between online stardom and WWE’s larger-than-life characters creates fresh, unpredictable content that keeps audiences hooked.
The “Speed Goes Pro” event also highlights WWE’s openness to experimentation, a hallmark of the company’s recent creative direction. By embracing influencers and letting them interact with its superstars in unscripted, organic ways, WWE is ensuring its product remains relevant in an ever-changing media landscape.
Conclusion: When Worlds Collide, Everybody Wins
IShowSpeed’s near-RKO on Randy Orton at the “Speed Goes Pro” premiere was a fleeting, hilarious moment that captured the spirit of both WWE and YouTube culture. While the move didn’t land, the excitement it generated—and the promise of more to come—proved that the crossover between internet fame and professional wrestling is here to stay.
As WWE continues to innovate and collaborate with digital creators, fans can expect more unexpected, meme-worthy moments that blur the line between reality and entertainment. And if Randy Orton’s words are any indication, the best may be yet to come.
Stay tuned to WWE.com and IShowSpeed’s YouTube channel for updates on their next collaboration—and maybe, just maybe, a successful RKO Outta Nowhere.