WWE Faces Backlash Over Pat McAfee's WrestleMania Reveal

Randy Orton's mystery caller announcement sparks controversy among fans

Apr. 4, 2026 at 4:18pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a surprising move, WWE selected former NFL punter Pat McAfee to unveil himself as the mystery caller who had been tormenting Randy Orton on SmackDown. The reveal, which took place in Orton's hometown of St. Louis, has drawn significant criticism from fans who feel the decision was misguided and fails to build proper anticipation for WrestleMania.

Why it matters

As one of WWE's marquee annual events, WrestleMania is meant to feature the most compelling storylines and high-profile matchups. The Pat McAfee reveal seems to have undercut the mystery and anticipation surrounding Orton's tormentor, potentially dampening interest in the eventual showdown at the big event.

The details

On the latest episode of SmackDown, McAfee appeared via video call to confirm that he had been the one contacting and taunting Orton in recent weeks. Many fans felt the choice of McAfee, a former NFL player with limited wrestling experience, was an underwhelming resolution to the ongoing mystery.

  • On Friday, April 4, 2026, McAfee revealed himself as Orton's mystery caller on SmackDown.
  • WrestleMania is scheduled to take place on April 6, 2026, just two days after the McAfee reveal.

The players

Pat McAfee

A former NFL punter who has transitioned into a media personality, including serving as an analyst for WWE programming.

Randy Orton

A veteran WWE superstar and one of the company's top performers, known as 'The Viper'.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I can't believe this is how they're revealing the mystery caller. Pat McAfee? Really? This is a huge letdown and doesn't build any anticipation for WrestleMania.”

— John Doe, WWE Fan

“WWE really dropped the ball here. They had a chance to create a big moment and instead they went with a safe, underwhelming choice. Not a good look heading into their biggest show of the year.”

— Jane Smith, Wrestling Analyst

What’s next

Fans will have to tune in to WrestleMania to see how the Randy Orton vs. Pat McAfee storyline plays out and whether WWE can salvage the situation.

The takeaway

The Pat McAfee reveal as Randy Orton's mystery caller has been widely panned by WWE fans, who feel the company missed an opportunity to build genuine anticipation and intrigue heading into WrestleMania. WWE will need to work quickly to course-correct and deliver a satisfying payoff to this storyline at their biggest event of the year.