3 predictions for Randy Orton ahead of his WWE return on SmackDown
After losing to John Cena at WWE Backlash 2025, Randy Orton is set to return to the squared circle for the first time as he will be part of the King of the Ring tournament. The Legend Killer will be locking horns with LA Knight, Aleister Black, and Carmelo Hayes in a Fatal Four-Way Match for a spot in the semifinals of the King of the Ring tournament.
However, WWE has not announced which of the two SmackDown Fatal Four-Way matches will take place in Lexington. Regardless, there is a chance that Orton's bout will take place tonight.
Here are three predictions for the Apex Predator ahead of this week's episode of the blue brand, if he returns this week.
#3. Randy Orton may advance in the King of the Ring tournament
The rivalry between John Cena and Orton has already concluded, after their match at Backlash. This leaves the veteran with no current feud as such. LA Knight attacked Bron Breakker on RAW after MITB, which means that Seth Rollins' faction may cost him on tonight's SmackDown.
This heightens the chances of WWE booking Randy Orton to advance in the tournament. It is one of the realistic predictions for the multi-time world champion ahead of the Friday night show, if his match takes place tonight.
#2. The Viper could begin a massive feud for WWE SummerSlam 2025
Even if Randy Orton fails to move ahead in the King of the Ring tournament, there are still chances that The Apex Predator could be involved in a massive feud for WWE SummerSlam 2025. This year, the Biggest Party of the Summer will be a two-night event, taking place on August 2 & 3, 2025.
Considering the popularity and legendary status of Randy Orton, it seems likely that he will have a major feud for this show. Interestingly, this could also happen if he wins the King of the Ring tournament this year and goes on to challenge for a world title.
#1. A potential confrontation with Ron Killings in the upcoming weeks
The distraction from R-Truth at Backlash 2025 was a significant reason why Orton lost to Cena in his hometown. With Truth back as Ron Killings, the Legend Killer may have a confrontation with the former tag team champion.
This confrontation could be done to promote the new serious character of Ron. Further, this segment makes sense, especially after what happened between them at Backlash.
It remains to be seen how things will unfold on the show, including whether Orton returns this week or whether the creative team pushes it back for later.
