Speculation about a major WWE SmackDown return rumor is growing after the KeyBank Center in Buffalo appeared to hint at Randy Orton’s comeback through a special contest announcement. With WWE SmackDown’s first show of 2026 scheduled at the Buffalo venue, fan excitement has surged due to the unexpected inclusion of an Orton-themed shirt in a promotional giveaway.
Buffalo Event Sparks Speculation Around Orton’s WWE Status
Buffalo’s KeyBank Center will kick off WWE SmackDown in 2026 with a high-profile Friday night show, fueling eager anticipation among wrestling fans. Before the event, the arena’s social media team unveiled a contest offering a set of three collaborative t-shirts with the Buffalo Sabres and WWE. Among the shirts featured was a design centered around Randy Orton, who has not appeared on WWE television for several months, heightening curiosity about his possible involvement in upcoming events.
“Enter to win ALL THREE of these @WWE x @BuffaloSabres collab shirts! ENTER: https://t.co/qxfd1M2gzR*Shirts will be on sale at WWE Smackdown! Friday, January 2* pic.twitter.com/lr7qC3OTsk”
— KeyBank Center (@KeyBankCtr)
The shirts will also be available to purchase at the event. Neither WWE nor the arena have officially billed Orton as a scheduled participant at the Buffalo show, yet his graphic’s presence with the merchandise has set off a flurry of online discussions speculating about a surprise appearance. Fans vividly recall his most recent WWE match, when he and Cody Rhodes faced Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed on October 3, which marked his last televised action.
Fan Theories and the Cena Shirt Context
The authenticity of this potential hint has been debated even more given that the promotional material also showcases John Cena, a retired star not expected at the event. The similarity has led some fans to suggest that the Orton t-shirt could merely be a marketing design choice, rather than evidence of his imminent return. However, these doubts have done little to quiet conversations about where Orton might resurface next.
Orton Addresses Absence at John Cena’s Farewell Event
Recently, many supporters raised questions about Orton’s whereabouts during John Cena’s final match, which took place this month. Orton clarified his absence, explaining that he was representing WWE in Saudi Arabia, specifically to promote the 2026 Royal Rumble in Riyadh. Orton emphasized his longstanding bond with Cena, mentioning they communicated on the day of Cena’s retirement match, further highlighting their mutual respect and history within the WWE universe.
“I broke into the wrestling business and grew up for the past 2 decades alongside @johncena I wrestled with or against him 100 times, at least. I would have enjoyed being there in DC for #wwe #snme and witness his emotional send off into retirement. But I know if ANYONE understands my absence, it’s John, because I was in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia #KSA promoting #riyadhseason and #royalrumble,”
Orton wrote on Instagram.
“The morning of his retirement we exchanged a few texts, and I was honored to speak with him on such a big day. I look forward to following John’s career in Hollywood AND beyond. Skys the limit with this guy. An inspiration not only to generations of fans, but to myself, who was lucky enough to learn firsthand from one of the most OVER wrestlers ever. Thanks for being so good to my family over the years and thanks for making the lockeroom a better place. Take care John, and I’ll see ya around. ??❤️”
— Orton, WWE Superstar
What Might Come Next for Orton and WWE Fans
The unexpected focus on Orton in promotional materials at KeyBank Center, alongside the sustained buzz online, keeps questions about his future in the spotlight. Whether Orton makes a surprise WWE SmackDown appearance or not, the speculation highlights his ongoing popularity and the emotional ties fans hold with returning stars. As the first SmackDown of 2026 approaches in Buffalo, anticipation continues to mount, suggesting that any sign of Orton’s involvement will be closely watched by fans, WWE insiders, and the wrestling community alike.
Enter to win ALL THREE of these @WWE x @BuffaloSabres collab shirts!
ENTER: https://t.co/qxfd1M2gzR
*Shirts will be on sale at WWE Smackdown! Friday, January 2* pic.twitter.com/lr7qC3OTsk
— KeyBank Center (@KeyBankCtr) December 31, 2025
