So, objectively through history the RCC as you call it can trace itself all the way back to Peter in an unbroken line of succession of Bishops. The Orthodox Church’s don’t deny this and it is literally recorded history, it’s a verifiable thing.But there is a distinction.... thats why I use the a small 'c' in catholic church the one true universal church not the Roman Catholic church.
That is the Catholic Church. You cannot be the church established by Christ if you can’t trace your church back to the apostles. I want to believe as early Christians believed, so I’m Catholic and not Protestant.