Why WWE Unveiled Pat McAfee As Randy Orton’s Ally; Not The Rock Or Vince McMahon

When Pat McAfee was revealed as Randy Orton’s secret ally, the WWE Universe was not pleased.

For weeks, WWE built up a mystery caller storyline on Friday Night SmackDown, where Orton was seen on the phone with an unknown figure.

The storyline began on the March 20, 2026, episode, when Orton was still a babyface, though his behavior was becoming increasingly aggressive toward Cody Rhodes, hinting at a potential heel turn.

In the following weeks, Orton continued to be shown speaking with the mystery ally before it was finally revealed to be McAfee on April 3, 2026.

During the buildup, the WWE Universe engaged in detective work, speculating about the identity of the caller. Names like The Rock, Vince McMahon, Kevin Owens, Ric Flair, Ted DiBiase Jr., and Bob Orton were among the fan theories.

However, when McAfee was revealed, many fans felt let down and voiced their frustration online, criticizing the angle. Since then, McAfee has received significant heat from the audience, which he addressed on the latest episode of The Pat McAfee Show.

Pat McAfee Hits Back at WWE Universe Criticism

He acknowledged the disappointment but defended himself, suggesting that fans should be grateful. McAfee claimed that names like The Rock or Vince McMahon were not interested, and that he was the one willing to step in for the WWE Universe.

“‘How come it was McAfee on the phone?’ Because I fucking called him and told him, that’s why. ‘I wanted it to be The Rock.’ You think The Rock wants to do anything for you? ‘I wanted it to be Vince McMahon.’ Vince? Sorry. It was me. It was me,” he said. [H/T Fightful]

McAfee is set to accompany Orton during his match against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42 Night One. Earlier this month, he also took to Twitter and made a bold claim that if Orton fails to defeat Rhodes and become a 15-time world champion, he will walk away from professional wrestling for good.

The only “shock” is that @RandyOrton, the greatest Sports Entertainer of all time, isn’t running @WWE That all changes at Mania… When he becomes 15 TIME WORLD CHAMPION AND SAVES THE BUSINESS for future generations while doing so. And if he doesn’t… I’ll NEVER BE SEEN OR HEARD IN THE WRESTLING WORLD AGAIN

While McAfee putting his pro wrestling career on the line has certainly added stakes to the feud, many fans remain upset over the storyline and his sudden insertion into it.

Also read: What Cody Rhodes Hopes To Get Out Of WWE Rivalry With Randy Orton

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