Randy Orton made an unexpected return at WWE SmackDown on Friday, thrilling fans with his appearance after months away from the ring. Interrupting The Miz during a segment, Orton’s dramatic entrance marked a major moment on the first show of the new year and quickly became the center of attention for the night, fueling excitement over his future plans.
A Sudden Intervention and Tag Team Proposal
As The Miz addressed the audience, Randy Orton appeared without warning and cut the moment short. Instead of a typical speech, Orton expressed himself through action, executing not just one, but two RKO finishers in the ring. The Miz, seizing the moment, suggested a potential partnership named “Miz-KO,” but Orton’s silence and decisive moves made it clear he had other priorities. The energy in the arena reflected the mild optimism many felt about Orton’s future on SmackDown.
Backstage Showdown with WWE Champion Cody Rhodes
After his in-ring display, Orton later met with WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. Their interaction was brief yet significant, with Rhodes welcoming Orton back into the fold. Orton acknowledged his respect for Rhodes, but made his intentions clear—once Rhodes faces Drew McIntyre next week and, should he emerge victorious from the grueling Three Stages of Hell match, Orton will be coming after the championship title.
Returning After Months Away
Orton’s appearance marks his first time in action since the October 3rd SmackDown, where he and Rhodes were defeated by Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed of The Vision. In that match, Orton suffered a curb stomp from Seth Rollins and a powerful Tsunami maneuver from Bronson Reed, which led to his three-month absence from WWE programming. Notably, his hiatus extended through John Cena‘s farewell match at Saturday Night’s Main Event in December, making this return highly anticipated both by fans and WWE personalities alike.
The Path Ahead for Orton and the WWE Roster
At 45 years old, Randy Orton’s star power continues to influence major WWE storylines. His direct challenge to Cody Rhodes sets the stage for a potential title feud, while the heart of WWE SmackDown looks set for turbulent change with Orton re-entering the spotlight. The unfolding storyline involving Drew McIntyre, Bronson Reed, The Miz, and other tag team ambitions ensures the weeks ahead will be full of suspense for the WWE universe as the company heads deeper into the new year.
Randy Orton 🤝 Cody Rhodes pic.twitter.com/tch7zydnyu
— WWE (@WWE) January 3, 2026
