Randy Orton has made his triumphant return to WWE television after an 18-month hiatus, and now there’s an update on the company’s plans for the future of the Viper ahead of Royal Rumble.
Following his return at Survivor Series 2023, Orton appeared on Raw and SmackDown before officially signing with the blue brand. On the December 1, 2023 episode of SmackDown, The Viper RKO’ed Jimmy Uso and General Manager Nick Aldis. Moreover, now it seems like he has set his sights on WWE Undisputed Universal Champion Roman Reigns.
According to a report from the Fightful Select’s paywall, Randy Orton’s segments on Raw and SmackDown last week were produced by Michael Hayes, the same producer responsible for Roman Reigns’ segments and anything related to the Bloodline.
Furthermore, the reports disclosed that Orton’s unexpected appearance on the November 27 Raw had specific motives. WWE aimed to capitalize on the buzz surrounding his return and, more importantly, sought to tie up loose ends in ongoing storylines involving Jey Uso and Judgment Day, where The Viper had a singles match with Dominik Mysterio.
With Orton officially signing with SmackDown, it suggests that WWE is positioning him as a potential challenger for Reigns’ title.
Potential match for Randy Orton at WWE Royal Rumble
Last week, Randy Orton made a decisive move by officially signing with SmackDown, turning down a Heavyweight Title match offered by Raw’s general manager Adam Pearce.
A heated confrontation ensued as Paul Heyman warned The Viper that the Bloodline would decide his fate. Orton faced an assault from Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa, saved only by LA Knight. After signing with SmackDown, Randy Orton grabbed the microphone and asked Paul Heyman to convey a message to Roman Reigns, stating that ‘The Daddy’s Home.’
Lastly, as the Royal Rumble approaches, anticipation builds for the show, and it looks like fans are about to see a clash between the two megastars.
