Randy Orton, the 14-time world champion, has been conspicuously absent from the WWE since May 2022 because of a severe back injury. However, recent sightings and reports suggest that “The Viper” might be on the brink of making his anticipated return.
Orton’s absence came after he and Matt Riddle, as part of their popular tag team RK-Bro, lost to the Usos. The dramatic exit was punctuated by The Usos violently dispatching Orton through the announcer’s table. Subsequent to this, Orton underwent surgery for his back injury. S
Such was the gravity of his condition that some sources reported doctors advising him against ever wrestling again. In spite of this, Orton, known for his resilience, remained determined to make a comeback.
Appears that Randy Orton is at the WWE PC today.
(Video sent to me by a fan there) pic.twitter.com/98hvM4WOMd
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) September 19, 2023
What’s fueling the fire of his imminent return are recent eyewitness accounts of Orton at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando. Videos of him outside the facility immediately went viral on social media. Further reports from indicate that Orton, while not having received medical clearance as of early August, has worked out rigorously in the gym, putting on a significant amount of muscle. This commitment to physical training, despite his initial injuries, is indicative of Orton’s dedication and passion for the sport.
Before his most recent hiatus, Orton, along with his tag team partner Riddle, had garnered significant admiration from the WWE audience for one of the most popular acts in recent years, the RK-Bro. This prior engagement sets up a new storyline, perfect for Orton’s return.
If he were to come back as a protagonist, he could directly challenge The Bloodline, seeking vengeance for the injuries they inflicted upon him. Considering Roman Reigns, a central figure of The Bloodline, is expected to put the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship on the line at the upcoming events like Crown Jewel and Survivor Series in November, the stage is perfectly set for Orton’s grand re-entry.
If nothing else, Randy Orton could serve as the perfect in-between foil in the few months ahead of Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes’ eventual match-up at WrestleMania 40 in April, provided that The Rock doesn’t exercise his control over the WWE schedule to make a bout with his cousin happen.
In this scenario, Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes could square up as early as Survivor Series. By then, Orton’s possible entry remains a mystery but he could still play heel against Cody Rhodes, his former protege.
However, such narratives aren’t the only option on the table. If Orton appears on the red brand, he could feud with his former tag team partner, Matt Riddle, provided he can get his real-life bearings straight. He could add to a growing list of heels on Monday Night RAW as well, which includes Drew McIntyre, among others. Conversely, an aligning with the blue brand might pit him against either John Cena and/or LA Knight, opening a new chapter of fierce rivalry.
Orton’s return would undoubtedly be a welcome one. With wrestling heavyweights like John Cena and The Rock making surprise comebacks, the inclusion of Randy Orton could further enhance the star power of WWE’s roster. It’s evident the WWE reveres its legends, and Orton’s long-standing legacy in the arena makes him a perfect fit for that category.
Whether Orton makes his official return at Crown Jewel in November remains to be seen, but it wouldn’t be a far-fetched possibility.
