Randy Orton’s WWE return on the January 2, 2026 episode of SmackDown drew massive attention, setting a new record for the company in terms of social media engagement. The highly anticipated return of the Apex Predator has put Orton at the center of speculation, with fans and insiders expecting a showdown with Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Record-Breaking WWE Comeback on SmackDown
Orton was last seen in WWE on the October 3, 2025 SmackDown episode but spent two months off television due to the lack of creative plans rather than injury. While fans expected his return to coincide with Royal Rumble 2026, Orton surprised the WWE Universe by reappearing in the opening segment of SmackDown, where he delivered his signature RKO to The Miz. The Miz, also known as the A-Lister, was in the middle of voicing his frustrations about not getting a match against John Cena when Orton made his surprise entrance. In an unexpected turn, The Miz invited Orton to team up with him, but the 14-time WWE Champion decided instead to silence him with an RKO.
This dramatic segment quickly became a sensation online, garnering over 10 million views on WWE’s official Instagram page within just 17 hours. Supporters flooded the post with praise, calling Orton’s reappearance the “Return Of The Year” and even predicting him as “YOUR ROYAL RUMBLE WINNER.” The enormous response underscores the enduring popularity and drawing power of Randy Orton within the WWE fanbase.
Intensifying Rivalry with Cody Rhodes
Following his return to in-ring action, Randy Orton was seen backstage in a tense confrontation with his former protégé, Cody Rhodes. The Viper made his intentions clear, stating that after Cody finishes his scheduled match against Drew McIntyre on the next edition of SmackDown, Orton would be coming after the WWE Championship. This direct challenge has further fueled speculation among fans, who have long expressed a desire to see Orton and Rhodes battle for the title.
The WWE organization has hinted at a potential rivalry by teasing the possibility of Orton reverting to his villainous persona, though this storyline has not yet officially developed. As Cody Rhodes appears to be running short of challengers after his clash with Drew McIntyre, the stage seems set for Orton to take his shot at the championship, answering the demand that has grown over the last two years for an Orton vs. Rhodes title match.
Potential Title Match Set for Royal Rumble 2026
Recent reports suggest that Orton could challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble 2026 Premium Live Event. This premier event is scheduled to be held at the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the first time in history that the Royal Rumble will take place outside of North America. The international stage adds further importance and a unique atmosphere to the anticipated showdown.
If the rumored matchup takes place, it will be the second major meeting between the two since Cody’s return to WWE in 2022. Their most recent high-profile encounter occurred during the King of the Ring final at Night of Champions in June 2025, where Cody emerged victorious. However, when considering their overall singles competition in WWE, Randy Orton boasts more wins over Rhodes, adding another dimension to this developing storyline.
What Lies Ahead for WWE’s Biggest Stars?
The record-breaking Randy Orton WWE return has reenergized storylines and sparked renewed excitement among fans for the next chapter in the rivalry with Cody Rhodes. With the Royal Rumble 2026 set for the global stage in Riyadh, all eyes will be on whether Orton can secure his 15th world championship or if Cody Rhodes will continue his reign at the top of WWE’s mountain. As anticipation builds, the WWE Universe is left waiting to see if this electrifying confrontation will become the signature moment of the year.
