Fans from WWE’s “ruthless attack” era may remember Kennedy (Ken Anderson) as a mid-level star with a very memorable entryway. Anderson was released from WWE in 2009 after spending just four years with WWE in 2009, and wrestlers believe it was due to a conflict with Randy Orton.
Speaking months after his release (via Prowrestlingstories), Anderson said he and Orton were closer and rode together from city to city. However, on the day the two were scheduled for a match in May 2009, Anderson said he felt a change in Orton’s attitude, as if the two were not friends.
Things got worse when Anderson dropped Orton on his head during the match, leading to a behind-the-scenes conflict. Among those present in the exchange were both Vince and Stephanie McMahon, who claimed that Orton warned him to be careful and reminded him that his health was important.
Anderson claims he didn’t actually drop Orton and the wrestler continued to work for several days after the match. Nevertheless, Anderson believes that he has been let go in WWE and the events are directly connected.
Orton’s aspects and final reconciliation of the story
In response to Anderson’s public claims, Orton shared his thoughts in a post that posted his ideas on his official message board, and his side is reportedly lined up with Anderson in many ways. The main difference is that Anderson denies dropping Orton and Orton claims it happened. Plus, Orton claimed Anderson called him a liar for saying it happened.
Orton also admitted to facing Anderson after the match and talking about his health. According to the longtime WWE star, Anderson did not apologise. After their speech, Orton said he told management he was not interested in working with Anderson.
Anderson and Orton have since placed a disagreement behind them, revealing that Anderson has had a long conversation with his former friend/rival around 2023. Looking back at his firing at the time, Anderson admitted that he changed his perspective and now accepts responsibility for WWE’s departure.
After its release in 2009, Anderson went on a long run with TNA before joining the independent scene. In addition to his wrestling career, Anderson makes good use of his voice as a boxing announcer.
Meanwhile, Orton is still strong in WWE. He recently wrestled his old rival John Cena for the uncontroversial WWE Championship in the Backlash, but it was short.
