Randy Orton made a surprising return to WWE SmackDown on August 8th, delivering an unexpected RKO to Drew McIntyre during a tense moment. This sudden attack came as McIntyre was cutting a promo in Dublin, setting off an explosive reaction from the crowd and reigniting their long-standing rivalry.
Orton’s return followed his absence since SummerSlam in New Jersey, where he teamed with singer Jelly Roll in a dramatic match against Drew McIntyre and Logan Paul. Although Orton and Jelly Roll fought fiercely, McIntyre’s team ultimately secured the victory. The takeover by McIntyre has since focused heavily on the WWE Championship, held by Cody Rhodes.
Rivalry Between McIntyre and Rhodes Escalates Amid Cody’s Absence
Following SummerSlam, Drew McIntyre targeted WWE Champion Cody Rhodes with increasing aggression. On SmackDown, McIntyre executed a vicious Claymore Kick to Rhodes, sending him crashing into the commentary table and forcing Rhodes out of action for several episodes. Rhodes’s time away is also attributed to filming commitments for the upcoming Street Fighter movie.
While speaking in Dublin, McIntyre lashed out at Rhodes with harsh words, dismissing him as powerless and predicting he would soon claim the WWE Title. McIntyre boldly declared,
“I’ve pinned Rhodes before, and the next time I pin him, I’ll be the WWE Champion,”
escalating the tension significantly between the two.
Orton’s Arrival Challenges McIntyre’s Claims of Isolation
McIntyre’s assertion that Cody Rhodes has no allies was immediately contradicted when Orton appeared behind him during the promo. The crowd erupted as Orton landed a surprise RKO on McIntyre, energizing the audience with cheers and his iconic theme song. Orton’s presence sent a clear message that Rhodes is far from alone and that old alliances remain strong.
This unexpected interference could foreshadow a future showdown between Orton and McIntyre, particularly with Rhodes unlikely to compete at the upcoming Clash in Paris event. WWE fans might witness a high-stakes match between these former WWE Champions as tensions rise within the roster.
Other Notable Updates in WWE
Karrion Kross, recently confirmed to have left WWE, has now announced his first opponent since departing the company, signaling new beginnings outside WWE’s banner.
Mercedes Mone has addressed ongoing rumors surrounding her creative control in AEW, pushing back against continuous speculation by responding directly to fans and critics.
Meanwhile, a former WWE Champion made a shocking and definitive exit from the wrestling world, with sources confirming that the departure is real and not a scripted storyline.
On this same edition of SmackDown, a former Women’s Tag Team Champion experienced a wardrobe malfunction, bringing unexpected attention to the segment.
Paul Heyman’s guidance has been credited by an ex-WWE Champion as key in preparing for a high-profile bout against Roman Reigns, who is scheduled to face Bronson Reed in a singles match at Clash in Paris.
Cody Rhodes addressed backlash from a controversial July 5, 2025 tweet, admitting it was “poorly worded,” a candid moment that sparked discussion among followers.
The Undertaker, last seen in ring action on WWE NXT confronting TNA Champion Trick Williams, has hinted at the possibility of returning to in-ring competition in the future.
The Wyatt Sicks are reportedly targeting some of WWE’s biggest stars for their next rivalry, promising fresh conflict on the horizon.
