Randy Orton WWE SmackDown fans witnessed a thrilling comeback last week as the veteran returned to Friday Night SmackDown after a brutal attack by Drew McIntyre sidelined him for several weeks. Tonight’s episode in Cincinnati, Ohio, promises major developments involving Orton as storylines intensify ahead of Crown Jewel.
The Apex Predator’s presence on the blue brand signals a shift in momentum, with multiple potential directions his character could take. Below are four key scenarios that could unfold for Randy Orton during tonight’s SmackDown broadcast.
Potential Tag Team Victory for Orton and Cody Rhodes
Tonight, Randy Orton is slated to team up with Cody Rhodes against Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed in a tag team showdown. This match follows Orton’s interference last week that helped even the odds against The Vision faction. WWE might place this bout as the show’s main event, emphasizing its significance.
Orton and Rhodes could secure a decisive win by overpowering Breakker and Reed, allowing The Viper to celebrate alongside the American Nightmare inside the ring. This mutual success may strengthen their alliance and highlight Orton’s return to dominance as the show concludes.
Backstage Assault by The Vision Could Target Orton
After suffering a rare setback last week, Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed are likely to seek retribution tonight. Their bruised pride might lead The Vision to ambush Randy Orton backstage before the tag team bout, aiming to inflict serious damage on the seasoned superstar.
If the attack escalates, it could result in a brutal beating until Nick Aldis and show officials intervene to stop the assault. The aftermath may see Orton escorted for medical evaluation, possibly with Rhodes staying close to ensure his partner’s well-being.
Possible Rift Between Orton and Rhodes After a Setback
Should The Vision secure an upset victory over Orton and Rhodes, tensions between the partners might erupt. The Viper could hold Rhodes responsible for their loss, igniting a tense quarrel in the ring.
This confrontation may expose underlying fragility in their partnership, with Orton walking away visibly frustrated while Rhodes remains perplexed by the unexpected discord. Such a split could complicate future storylines and reshape alliances on SmackDown.
Seth Rollins’ Surprise Attack Could Shake Orton’s Night
As Orton and Rhodes celebrate their possible victory, the main event could take a dark turn with a sudden ambush from Seth Rollins and his faction. This surprise assault would serve to make a bold statement, particularly targeting Orton.
Rollins might subject The Viper to multiple vicious stomps while Breakker and Reed restrain Rhodes, intensifying the chaos. This brutal scene could position Orton as a chilling example to demonstrate what Rollins has in store for Rhodes at the upcoming Crown Jewel event.
Randy Orton’s return on WWE SmackDown marks a pivotal moment not only for his character but also for the brand’s evolving narratives. Whether he emerges victorious, faces betrayal, or suffers a relentless attack, tonight’s developments will set the stage for critical story arcs ahead. Fans should watch closely as tensions rise in Cincinnati, with Orton’s actions potentially shaping the road to Crown Jewel and beyond.
Built on Legacy.
See you tomorrow… #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/Tdd3kyvXoQ
— Randy Orton (@RandyOrton) October 2, 2025
