At SummerSlam 2025, Randy Orton will team up with country musician Jelly Roll in a highly anticipated match following notable segments on SmackDown and Saturday Night’s Main Event. The storyline intensified when Logan Paul interrupted Jelly Roll during a live performance, sparking tension between the participants. While Orton supports Jelly Roll, his rationale excludes Paul, despite Paul having competed at top levels in WWE matches.
Potential Alternatives for Randy Orton’s Role at SummerSlam
The decision to pair Orton with Jelly Roll has stirred disappointment among fans, who believe WWE could have booked more compelling encounters featuring The Viper. Several potential matchups are suggested as stronger alternatives to showcase Orton’s talents and respect his legacy.
Boosting Rising Stars: Carmelo Hayes and His Underused Potential
Winning the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal gave Carmelo Hayes a moment in the spotlight, but since then, his participation has been limited and inconsistent. Despite occasional appearances in Money in the Bank and King of the Ring qualifiers, Hayes has frequently been sidelined, receiving minimal TV exposure. Given his stature as a former NXT Champion and a key figure alongside Bron Breakker, Hayes deserves more prominent storylines on SmackDown, possibly involving a clash with Randy Orton. A feud where Hayes mocks Orton’s hesitation in previous matches could symbolize a passing of the torch, granting Hayes a significant victory.
Challenging Randy Orton: Aleister Black and Karrion Kross Opportunities
Orton’s legendary career presents an opportunity for emerging talents like Aleister Black and Karrion Kross to elevate their profiles. Black, who often keeps to himself on SmackDown despite interference from R-Truth, could benefit from an intense feud with Orton. Facing The Legend Killer would test Black’s resolve and might lead to a critical character evolution for him.
Karrion Kross, known for targeting WWE’s established heroes since his 2022 return, has recently focused on Sami Zayn, who may soon be sidelined. This situation could open the door for Kross to feud with Orton, potentially triggering a compelling heel turn for The Viper and redefining his persona.
Drawbacks of Celebrity-Centric Booking at SummerSlam
While some fans appreciate celebrity involvement, many express concern over WWE’s choice to spotlight Jelly Roll in an official match, especially with competitors like Drew McIntyre also on the card. With SummerSlam expanding to a two-night event, officials seem eager to incorporate celebrities, yet this risks undermining the credibility of full-time wrestlers.
McIntyre’s presence could have seamlessly set up a no-disqualification or street fight against Orton without incorporating Jelly Roll or Logan Paul into the mix. There is already a strong triple threat for the Women’s World Title, so the card requires a balanced variety of matches. Questions remain about how McIntyre and Paul’s reputations will fare if they lose to a 45-year-old musician who has yet to compete professionally in WWE.
Looking Ahead: What SummerSlam 2025 Could Mean for WWE’s Future
The booking decisions surrounding Randy Orton SummerSlam 2025 matches have stirred unease among fans who desire storylines that better leverage WWE’s wrestling talent. Highlighting rising stars like Carmelo Hayes and Aleister Black in meaningful feuds with Orton would offer long-term benefits for the promotion. Conversely, further reliance on celebrities might dilute the event’s competitive atmosphere and the stature of established wrestlers.
As SummerSlam approaches, these choices will influence WWE’s direction in blending entertainment and athletic competition, defining how legendary figures coexist with new talent and outside personalities on one of wrestling’s biggest stages.
