Randy Orton has been missing from WWE shows recently, leaving fans wondering about his current status and if he’ll be back in time for the Road to WrestleMania 42. His last appearance was in early October on SmackDown, where he teamed up with Cody Rhodes but was attacked post-match by Seth Rollins and Bronson Reed.
Orton is currently enjoying a break over the holidays, including a family trip in November. Although he was advertised for the December 5 episode of SmackDown, he did not make an appearance. He is expected to return early next year, ahead of the Royal Rumble on January 31, beginning his journey towards WrestleMania. WWE recently released a promotion for a SmackDown event the night before the Royal Rumble featuring Orton, confirming his participation in the Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This, however, suggests his return will happen before the January 30 SmackDown episode rather than on that date.
Fans were puzzled by Orton’s booking this year, as he lost several matches and was mostly sidelined from main event scenes. At SummerSlam, he teamed with American singer-songwriter Jelly Roll but lost to Drew McIntyre and Logan Paul. Since his return at Survivor Series: War Games in November 2023, Orton has been a fan favorite, with hints of a possible heel turn when he was seen alongside director Rose on TV. His last rivalry before disappearing involved McIntyre. Reports hint that both Rose and McIntyre tried to get Orton involved in the September Wrestlepalooza match, but he declined. WWE has not yet announced any concrete plans for him upon his return.
Orton might make an earlier appearance at John Cena’s retirement event this Saturday. Cena will have his final match against Gunter at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. Orton and Cena ended their long-standing rivalry earlier this year with Cena’s win at Backlash. The two, who were major faces and heels during the PG era, share a strong backstage friendship. It’s expected Orton will be part of Cena’s farewell alongside other WWE legends, though his official WWE return seems slated for next month.
Fan Take: Orton’s potential return adds exciting momentum for WWE’s upcoming major events, keeping fans eager for new storylines. His involvement could reignite classic rivalries and elevate the build-up to WrestleMania, making it a thrilling period for wrestling enthusiasts.
