WWE began its exciting weekend in the Middle East with SmackDown live from the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Cody Rhodes addressed the crowd, highlighting his goal to secure a third consecutive Royal Rumble victory, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown during the event’s buildup.
Known as “The American Nightmare,” Cody Rhodes secured back-to-back Royal Rumble titles in 2023 and 2024. Only three wrestling legends—Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, and Stone Cold Steve Austin, the latter holding the record with three wins—have managed to claim multiple consecutive victories. Rhodes aims to match Austin’s record with a third win this Saturday, but the Riyadh audience did not appear supportive of his ambitions.
As Rhodes outlined his plans for the upcoming contest, the crowd responded loudly with chants of “No!” However, Rhodes cleverly shifted the mood by praising Sami Zayn, the hometown favorite set to challenge Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble. Rhodes also hinted at a future World Heavyweight Championship match against CM Punk with a pointed message:
We gotta do this eventually, bud.
Just as Rhodes returned to discussing his quest for a third Royal Rumble victory, he was abruptly interrupted by a familiar figure in the WWE universe—his former mentor Randy Orton.
Randy Orton’s Unexpected Interruption Heightens Royal Rumble Drama
The crowd in Saudi Arabia erupted for Randy Orton, a 14-time World Champion and two-time Royal Rumble winner, who appeared to challenge Rhodes directly. Orton expressed respect for his former protégé but made it clear that respect would not influence what happens the next night at the Royal Rumble.
Orton warned about the dangers Rhodes poses when desperate but emphasized his own threat by saying,
There is nothing more dangerous than a Viper chasing number 15.
Orton stressed that friendship and respect would not prevent him from eliminating Rhodes by tossing him over the top rope.
Building Rivalries Ahead of the Royal Rumble Event
With Orton’s interruption, the tension between him and Rhodes has intensified dramatically just hours before the Royal Rumble takes place. Rhodes’ pursuit of a third consecutive victory now faces a significant challenge from his former mentor, setting up a personal and competitive conflict that promises to capture fans’ attention.
The unfolding drama in Riyadh adds new layers to the Royal Rumble narrative, especially with key figures like Sami Zayn attempting to claim championship gold and CM Punk potentially entering the fray for the World Heavyweight title. As Rhodes, Orton, and other WWE stars prepare for the event, the rivalry established tonight will likely play a crucial role in how the match unfolds.
RANDY ORTON HAS INTERRUPTED CODY RHODES
ITS A CONCERT IN SAUDI ARABIA RIGHT NOW
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥#Smackdown
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) January 30, 2026
