Randy Orton is back in WWE, making his return to TV on the first SmackDown of the new year.
The Viper made his return in the opening segment of the January 2 broadcast by interrupting The Miz. The A Lister crashed the introduction from commentators Michael Cole and Corey Graves before airing his grievances. After pointing out that he never got his moment with John Cena, was previously mocked by Joe Hendry, and also called out actor Timothée Chalamet for being passed up on the upcoming Marty Supreme movie, Orton’s music hit to a massive ovation.
Miz was happy to see Orton, and even teased an alliance with The Apex Predator, but was instead hit with an RKO. After the crowd chanted for another RKO, Orton obliged by picking up Miz and hitting him with his finisher for a second time.
Later in the Orton show, Orton met wth WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. Orton let Rhodes know that he was looking for a future match with The American Nightmare.
When Did Randy Orton Last Compete On WWE SmackDown?
Orton’s last match was on the October 3, 2025 broadcast, which saw Orton and Rhodes lose to The Vision’s Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed. After the match, Orton was taken out by the group and has been absent from TV ever since.
Although Orton was considered one of John Cena’s greatest rivals, and faced the 17-time World Champion on his retirement tour, he was notably absent from Cena’s last match at Saturday Night’s Main Event. Instead, Orton was overseas in Saudi Arabia to promote upcoming events in the country.
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