The Run-In #10

I know what you guys are thinking: "Brock Lesnar vs. HHH looks to be going down at SummerSlam, and he's even advertised for the August 13th edition of Raw! Nothing to rant about!" You'd think after a few months, you guys would know me. I wanted to bring forth a certain problem involving Randy Orton and how popularity can diffuse any issues in times of need.

If you were unaware, Orton's currently serving a 60 day suspension for his second (documented) Wellness Policy violation. Dirtsheets have him testing positive for weed (which he's been known to gladly take the fine for) and testosterone-enhancing drugs. There have been numerous reports stating that Vince McMahon, HHH and others have been upset not only in the failure but for Orton's attitude since the tests. Granted, he's saying he accidentally tested positive (although he should NOT be taking performance enhancing drugs in the first place), but recently it's been said that Orton is the one who's pissed! He apparently is not only upset that his punt to the head maneuver has been removed due to concussion concerns (which is logical), but he mainly wants to be a heel again. See, WWE likes having top babyfaces on both brands, and with Sheamus not as over as they'd like, Orton's been #2. His character naturally plays a better heel, but he has to do what they need him to do.

Many have even said that his 10 year contract is a point of contention, as there's a third violation looming, any extended title push for Randy is in jeopardy of being cut short if he tests positive. But herein lies the rub: the WWE isn't in a state where they can lose marquee talent. Look at the lack of depth, then look at what Orton brings to the table. He's relatively young (early 30s), extremely talented and has put in time honing his wrestling persona. As reluctant as the WWE can be to put him in that role, they've got no choice.

Chris Jericho's due back, as is Rey Mysterio. Both have obvious limitations in terms of age and injury. John Cena can go, but he is a company man who will work hurt. Sheamus can't carry a brand, and the WWE still doesn't believe guys like CM Punk or Daniel Bryan can be the face of the federation. We recently heard talk that Alberto Del Rio doesn't really NEED the money, so he has no problem leaving the WWE and being a bigger star in Mexico, and the talent that's been untapped by Creative also has been buried, which makes it hard for the fans to believe it when a new(er) face gets a push. Then you have to worry about Creative botching the push when it's time to let it fly.

Orton's due back to active competition at the end of July. In the interim, CM Punk and Daniel Bryan will be doing Smackdown house shows and TV. Orton will be back in the spotlight because the WWE cannot afford to keep him on a leash. It's a sticky situation, but the WWE hasn't even begun to take the proper precaution(s) to bolster their roster or force their Superstars to stop juicing. Time will tell if they get pushed hard enough to finally break down and consider their future. I feel like a broken record when it comes to that issue, though. For anything else I've missed in this drop, please check out this week's blackrasslin podcast. Full recap of the No Way Out PPV, Raw and a grip of news. See you next week!