Randy Orton Claims IShowSpeed Has What It Takes To Be A WWE Superstar

WWE legend Randy Orton didn’t hold back his praise for YouTube sensation IShowSpeed, saying the young streamer has the mental and physical tools to become a full-time WWE superstar.

The Viper delivered the endorsement during the finale of Speed Goes Pro, a new YouTube series where Speed (real name Darren Jason Watkins Jr.) attempts to compete with top-tier athletes across multiple sports—including pro wrestling.

After two grueling days of training at the WWE Performance Center, which included running the ropes, taking bumps, and even absorbing a brutal chair shot from Orton himself, Speed laced up his boots for a full WWE-style match in front of a live crowd. With Orton watching closely from ringside, Speed threw himself into the moment—selling moves, showcasing raw charisma, and proving he wasn’t just there for show.

When the match ended, Speed turned to Randy Orton and asked him directly if he had what it takes. Orton didn’t hesitate.

“Speed. It takes a very long time to get good at your craft. You got a long way to go. But without a shadow of a doubt, I think you do have what it takes to be a WWE superstar.”

Orton expanded on his verdict, making it clear he sees real long-term potential:

“Mentally, he’s there. Physically, he’s got everything it takes. If he wants to stick with this journey… through hard work and dedication, he could one day be a full-time WWE superstar if he wants it.”

This wasn’t Speed’s first brush with WWE fame. He previously appeared disguised as a Prime bottle during Logan Paul’s United States Championship match at WrestleMania XL, and again shocked fans when he entered the 2025 Royal Rumble, temporarily replacing Akira Tozawa. Speed even managed to eliminate Otis with help from Bron Breakker—just before getting flattened by a spear that went viral across social media.

In the closing moments, Speed was clearly humbled and inspired, telling the camera:

“I feel like everything that y’all just seen was just a little step in the door. Like, I need to have more knowledge. I need to learn more. I need to practice more and work for it.”

Whether he’s ready to fully dive into pro wrestling remains to be seen—but one thing’s for sure: Randy Orton sees something in him.

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