WWE’s recent storyline involving Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes has been a wild ride, with the latest twist coming in the form of Pat McAfee’s unexpected turn as Orton’s mystery caller. However, it seems that McAfee’s involvement in the program was not always part of the plan. According to sources close to the situation, McAfee was initially not scheduled to appear on TV before WrestleMania 37, let alone become a central figure in the Orton-Rhodes feud.
A Last-Minute Change of Plans
It’s reported that McAfee’s involvement in the program was only brought up about two weeks before his actual debut on SmackDown. At the time, WWE officials were looking for a way to add an element of surprise to Orton’s storyline, and McAfee’s name was floated as a potential mystery caller. However, sources close to McAfee indicate that he was not initially on board with the idea.
McAfee’s Initial Hesitation
According to a WWE insider, McAfee was initially hesitant to get involved in the program due to concerns about the potential backlash from fans and the impact on his other business ventures. McAfee has built a successful brand for himself as a sports personality and podcaster, and he may have been worried about how his involvement in WWE would be perceived by his audience.
“I think Pat was a bit apprehensive about getting involved in WWE, especially at such short notice,” said the insider. “He’s built a reputation as a serious sports personality, and he may have been worried about how his fans would react to him suddenly appearing on WWE TV.”
A Chaotic Debut
Despite his initial hesitation, McAfee eventually agreed to join the program, and his debut on SmackDown was met with a mix of excitement and confusion. While some fans were thrilled to see McAfee on TV, others were skeptical about his involvement in the storyline. However, McAfee’s performance in the ring and his chemistry with Orton and Rhodes helped to win over many fans, and his role in the program became a highlight of WrestleMania 37.
McAfee’s Post-WrestleMania Plans
While McAfee’s involvement in the Orton-Rhodes feud was a surprise, it’s not clear what his plans are for the future. Sources close to the situation indicate that McAfee has not been scheduled for any future TV appearances, and it’s unclear whether he will continue to be involved in WWE storylines.
“Pat’s involvement in the Orton-Rhodes feud was always meant to be a one-off thing,” said a source close to WWE. “While we’re glad he was able to make it work, we don’t have any plans for him to continue appearing on TV in the near future.”
A Look Ahead to the Future
While McAfee’s involvement in WWE may be over for the time being, his impact on the company will be felt for weeks to come. The Orton-Rhodes feud was one of the most talked-about storylines of WrestleMania 37, and McAfee’s role in it helped to add an extra layer of excitement to the program.
As WWE looks to the future, it’s clear that the company will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of guest appearances and surprise twists. While McAfee may not be a part of the company’s plans for the near future, his involvement in the Orton-Rhodes feud will go down as one of the most memorable moments of the year.
A Message from Pat McAfee
While McAfee has not publicly commented on his involvement in the Orton-Rhodes feud, a source close to him revealed that he was thrilled to be a part of the program and appreciated the opportunity to work with WWE.
“Pat was genuinely excited to be a part of the Orton-Rhodes feud,” said the source. “He’s a huge fan of WWE and had a blast working with Randy and Cody. He’s grateful for the opportunity and is looking forward to seeing how the storyline unfolds in the coming weeks.”