On January 9, 2026, Randy Orton made a rare appearance on Friday Night SmackDown, his first since October of the previous year, and sparked intrigue by confronting Trick Williams, the recent NXT addition and former TNA World Champion. This encounter has fans speculating about a new WWE program involving Orton WWE program and the promising young talent, gaining approval from the audience. The meeting between the seasoned 14-time World Champion and Trick Williams came as a surprise, especially after Orton’s partner Cody Rhodes hinted at a potential Undisputed WWE Championship storyline late last year.
Shifting Alliances and Tensions Around the Undisputed Title
Previously, Orton and Rhodes had worked closely as a tag team, blending the dynamic of mentor and student with mutual trust. However, with the pressure of the World Title looming, the fragile alliance began to show cracks, reflecting the well-known wrestling trope that championship aspirations often lead to rivalry. Orton’s sudden disappearance and subsequent ambiguous return on SmackDown created uncertainty, as he was challenged not only by The Miz but also by the emerging Trick Williams. These interactions seemed unexpected at first, but Williams’ rising profile in WWE suggests a deeper story developing.
Orton’s Positive Reaction to Trick Williams’ Momentum
A notable moment during their encounter was Orton’s visible enjoyment of Trick Williams’ entrance and the crowd’s enthusiastic chant of “Whoop that Trick!” WWE’s social media highlighted Orton nodding in approval to Williams’ theme music, signaling potential chemistry or mutual respect between the veteran and newcomer.
Even @randyorton was nodding along to @_trickwilliams‘ entrance 🔥 pic.twitter.com/8uG1IaqhH5
— WWE (@WWE) January 15, 2026
Implications for Upcoming WWE Events and Championship Contention
The new dynamic between Randy Orton and Trick Williams could lead to a significant storyline, potentially culminating in a match at WrestleMania. Both wrestlers are scheduled to compete in a number one contender’s tournament, with the victor earning a chance to challenge Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble on January 31. This tournament will likely be a critical stepping stone, not only shaping the path to the title but also determining where this hinted program between Orton and Williams might progress.
Even @randyorton was nodding along to @_trickwilliams' entrance 🔥 pic.twitter.com/8uG1IaqhH5
— WWE (@WWE) January 15, 2026
