Grilling JR, by way of Sportskeeda, Hall of Famer Jim Ross revealed that he had to twist McMahon's arm. While Ross is best-known as an announcer, he was also responsible for hiring talent during his time in WWE. He was one of the officials who saw something in Orton, but he had to convince the boss that the young protege was worth the gamble. Ross recalled how Orton was considered too "controversial" and risky at the beginning of his career. Furthermore, McMahon may have seen a lot of himself in "The Viper," as Ross claimed Orton's troubled past was similar to McMahon's background prior to entering the sports entertainment business.