Randy Orton’s WWE Absence Finally Explained
Randy Orton has not been seen in WWE since WrestleMania 42.
The Viper won the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber match to earn a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania. Ahead of the Show of Shows, he shockingly turned heel on the champion, Cody Rhodes. The 14-time world champion also joined forces with Pat McAfee, who was unexpectedly inserted into the storyline.
The American Nightmare and Orton headlined the first night of WrestleMania in Las Vegas. Although McAfee was taken out early in the match by Rhodes and Jelly Roll, he returned later to help The Viper. Shockingly, Orton turned on him and hit him with an RKO. The distraction, however, cost the wrestling legend the match, allowing Rhodes to capitalize and retain his title.
Randy Orton’s WWE Absence Is Reportedly Due To Injury
Since his loss at the Showcase of the Immortals, Randy Orton has been absent from WWE. Meanwhile, rumors suggested The Viper was booked to win the title match against Cody Rhodes before the plans changed at the last minute.
Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer provided an update on Orton’s status, revealing that the 45-year-old’s absence is due to a back injury.
Back injury. That’s why he’s been gone since WrestleMania and it’s probably why he didn’t win the title. He’s got a back injury and it’s significant. He’s had it for years. It almost ended his career, came back, still there and that’s why he’s been out.
WWE is currently advertising The Viper for the May 29 episode of SmackDown, which is set to take place in Barcelona, Spain, two days ahead of Clash in Italy.
View this post on Instagram
Also read: Jelly Roll Wanted To Be Part Of Different WWE Feud; Not Cody Rhodes Vs. Randy Orton
Make TJR Wrestling your choice for news by clicking here.