CJ Perry Recalls Randy Orton Pulling Her Aside Backstage and Giving Career Advice That Still Sticks Today

CJ Perry is opening up about a moment early in her WWE career that left a lasting mark — and it all started with an awkward run-in with Randy Orton backstage.

In her debut column for Uncrownd on Yahoo Sports, Perry looked back at her first days in WWE, when nerves were high and confidence was still building. She remembered finding herself alone in catering with Orton, unsure whether to speak to him or quietly keep her distance. Instead of ignoring her, Orton made the first move and offered advice that stuck with her long after that moment. She explained how intimidating the situation felt at the time, describing how unsure she was about approaching someone with Orton’s status in the locker room.

“I remember when I first started in WWE, I found myself in catering with Randy being the only other person in there. It was like that high-school movie scene where I didn’t know whether I should go and sit in the corner alone like a nerd, or go say ‘hi’ to the prom king/quarterback. I almost scraped the skin off my face walking along the wall trying to avoid him, but ‘The Viper’ called me over and gave me advice on wrestling, storytelling and WWE in general.”

That conversation quickly turned into a lesson she says shaped how she approached her role and preparation.

“Wrestling friction gets resolved in the ring,” he told me. “So even though you’re a manager now, it won’t always be like that, so get in there before every show and practice.”

The advice stuck with Perry, especially as her career evolved beyond being a manager and into more active roles. It also reinforces the reputation Orton has carried for years as someone who understands the business at a deep level and isn’t afraid to share that knowledge when it matters.

Moments like this don’t always make it into headlines, but they often shape careers behind the scenes. For Perry, that single interaction with Orton turned into a long-term reminder that preparation isn’t optional — it’s survival in WWE.

What do you think about Randy Orton stepping in to help younger talent behind the scenes — is mentorship like this still one of the most important parts of wrestling today? Drop your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation.