Does Randy Orton want a record run as world champion? Orton, who currently has 14 world titles to his credit, recently spoke with Logan Paul about breaking the WWE record held by Ric Flair and John Cena for 16 world championships (as always, any mention of Flair's championships warrants a reminder that he has held the world title more than 16 times, despite the WWE's claim to the contrary).

"The Viper" appeared on Paul's Impaulsive podcast and was asked whether he has any interest in tying or breaking Cena and Flair's record:

“Oh, of course. I want to do everything I can. Longevity is always the number one goal for me, and being able to go home and play with my kids and not be in pain. That’d be the ultimate goal. But as many accomplishments as I can accomplish in WWE, the more the better."

Orton also discussed how he's found himself in a new role backstage:

“I’ve already done so much so far, it’s kind of nice being in a position where I can watch other guys’ matches and maybe critique and help and answer questions. So for the first time in my career, I find myself being a little bit of a, gosh, I don’t want to say the word, I guess a mentor to some people. I can pull a guy aside, like, ‘Hey man, careful. Don’t go out there and end up in a wheelchair.’"

H/T WrestleZone

For some fans, it might seem surprising that Randy Orton isn't already a 16-time world champion. Orton, a member of the legendary 2002 class that saw the main roster debuts of John Cena, Batista, and Brock Lesnar, was always in the hunt for a world championship or the world champion. Indeed, Orton became the youngest wrestler to win a WWE world title when he defeated Chris Benoit at 2004's SummerSlam. Orton, who was only 24 at the time would of course go on to hold a cornucopia of championships in the WWE.

Orton's most recent world championship reign was in 2020 when he defeated Drew McIntyre at Hell in a Cell to win the WWE Championship. After dropping the belt back to McIntyre, Orton focused on tag team gold, winning the RAW Tag Team Championship twice with Matt Riddle. Rumor has it that Orton was in line to challenge Roman Reigns for the Undisputed Championship in 2022. Unfortunately, Orton had to bow out of action due to his back injury and ended 18 months of competition.

Can Orton Tie or Break the Current Record?

Orton has said he would like to continue wrestling for as long as his body holds up. It's difficult to make any prediction on Orton's longevity, especially when you consider the rumors that his doctor advised him not to return to the ring. However, if he can stay active for two or three years, two more title wins is not out of the question, despite the WWE's tendency for longer world title reigns.

"The Viper" certainly doesn't need 16 title reigns to cement his legacy. Nonetheless, it sounds like it's something he'd like to do as long as it doesn't mean adding unnecessary wear and tear on his body. Would you like to see Orton tie or break John Cena and Ric Flair's current WWE record of 16 world championships? 

Photo Credit: WWE