The rumor mill has ignited after hints pointed to a Randy Orton possible rematch with Joe Hendry teased on social media, with fans speculating about a future face-off following a striking RKO homage. The intrigue gained momentum when Hendry delivered an RKO during a major wrestling event, sparking a wave of online discussion and anticipation among WWE followers about a potential clash at an upcoming pay-per-view.
Origins of the Orton-Hendry Rematch Tease
Fans of WWE are convinced that Joe Hendry has dropped a major clue regarding a rematch with Randy Orton. This discussion follows their showdown at WrestleMania 41, where Hendry, known for his tenure as TNA World Champion, was revealed as Orton’s mystery opponent after Kevin Owens was sidelined due to neck surgery. The prelude to their initial contest saw Orton requesting SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis to secure a new challenger, resulting in Hendry’s debut at the high-profile event.
Joe Hendry’s RKO Tribute Stirs the WWE Community
Recently, at AAA TripleMania Regia 2025, Joe Hendry competed in a Fatal Four Way Match for the TNA X-Division Title, featuring bouts against Moose, El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr., and El Mesias. In a moment that caught everyone off-guard, Hendry executed a move synonymous with Orton — the RKO — paying direct tribute to The Viper and fueling speculation about a rematch between the two. Video footage of the RKO tribute circulated rapidly, drawing heightened attention.
The subsequent social media buzz was immediate, with WWE Universe members sharing strong opinions in the comments. Many interpreted the move as a rematch proposal, suggesting that Hendry and Orton could meet again, possibly at WWE SummerSlam 2025. Reactions included disbelief at Hendry’s imitation of the RKO and even playful suggestions to rename the iconic maneuver “RK-Joe.”
Fans Push for a SummerSlam Showdown
Enthusiastic fans voiced a collective desire to see Orton and Hendry wrestle at SummerSlam 2025. The excitement reflects a growing trend in the WWE community, as supporters actively campaign for marquee matches featuring popular stars. This groundswell has seen creative engagement from fans, including the rebranding of signature moves and lively exchanges about potential storylines.
Controversy Surrounds Recent SmackDown Results
In a separate storyline twist, Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes both secured victories in their King of the Ring tournament matches on the latest episode of SmackDown, advancing them to the semifinals. The decision has drawn critical commentary from former WWE writer Vince Russo during a recent episode of Sportskeeda Wrestling’s BroDown. Russo questioned the necessity of these wins, asserting the dominance of Orton and Rhodes in WWE’s top tier, while critiquing the repeated reliance on established talent due to what he described as a lack of fresh star power in the current locker room.
“This just goes to show you everything we are talking about. At this point in their careers, where they are on the card, does Randy Orton or Cody Rhodes really need to be winning King of the Ring? This just shows you that nobody is over. They keep going back to the same people.”
—Vince Russo, former WWE writer
The Road Ahead for Randy Orton and Joe Hendry
The possibility of a rematch between Randy Orton and Joe Hendry continues to captivate both fans and the wrestling world. While neither WWE nor the athletes have officially confirmed any future bout, the persistent discussions and viral moments — like Hendry’s RKO tribute — keep anticipation high. Observers now await further developments, especially as SummerSlam and subsequent events approach, to see if WWE will capitalize on the current momentum, address fan demands, and provide resolution to the ongoing conversation about the organization’s reliance on veteran main eventers.
