A King of the Ring semi-final match with significant championship implications is scheduled for this Friday’s edition of SmackDown, as Randy Orton is set to face Sami Zayn. The winner will advance to the tournament final to compete against either Jey Uso or Cody Rhodes, with the ultimate victor earning a world title match at SummerSlam.
While the contest is presented as evenly matched, there is speculation that a defeat for Orton could precipitate a change in his on-screen character. A loss, particularly one perceived as unjust or humiliating, could serve as a catalyst for a heel turn after a period of growing frustration for the veteran performer.
One potential scenario involves a post-match dispute between Orton and Zayn, leading to an RKO out of frustration. If Cody Rhodes were to intervene to de-escalate the situation, Orton’s aggression could then be redirected toward him, initiating a new conflict between the two.
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This development could either be an immediate turn or the beginning of a more methodical storyline shift. A slow-burn approach, which would build tension in the relationship between Orton and Rhodes over time, aligns with long-term booking strategies.
This comes as Orton remains active under his WWE contract and rumors persist about 2025 potentially being his last full-time year, adding weight to his current high-profile storylines.
