Randy Orton is set to return to WWE programming following a hiatus.
‘The Viper’ last appeared at WrestleMania 42 Night 1, where he turned on his former partner Pat McAfee and lost to Cody Rhodes for the WWE Undisputed Championship. Following the match, Orton delivered a punt kick to Rhodes despite the loss.
‘The Viper’ is now scheduled to return to WWE on the May 29 episode of SmackDown in Barcelona, Spain at the Olympic Arena. The appearance will mark his first on WWE television since ‘The Show of Shows.’
WWE has officially advertised Orton for the May 29 SmackDown taping. The return comes ahead of the Clash in Italy premium live event.
Randy Orton Return Update
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter provided context on Orton’s absence. As per the report, the punt kick after WrestleMania was intended to continue the program between Orton and Rhodes with McAfee and Jelly Roll no longer involved.
“Randy Orton punting Rhodes after their WrestleMania match clearly was leading to keeping that program going with Pat McAfee and Jelly Roll no longer in the picture. Orton hasn’t appeared since WrestleMania.
There is no confirmation of an Orton injury, but we had reported he was hurting. Before the show the plan was for Orton to win with the proviso that could be changed based on his injury status,” they reported.
Championship Legacy
Orton holds 14 WWE World Championship reigns, tied with Triple H for third-most all-time behind John Cena with 17 and Hulk Hogan with 12. Among active full-time WWE stars, Orton’s 14 reigns leads the way, followed by Roman Reigns and CM Punk with six each.
The May 29 SmackDown will air from Barcelona as part of WWE’s European tour.