Add as a preferred source on Google Randy Orton is still expected to be in New York this weekend, even after his scheduled Fanatics Fest NYC appearance was canceled.
The event’s official talent page lists “The Viper” among the names who will no longer be attending. His paid autograph and photo-op sessions were also removed from the schedule, with no public explanation given.
However, WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select reported that people involved with Fanatics Fest and those close to Orton still expect him to be in the city this weekend.
The report does not mean Orton will appear at the event at the Javits Center as originally planned. As of now, no new fan sessions have been announced.
Fanatics Fest NYC began Thursday, July 16, and will run through Sunday, July 19. Orton was among the first WWE stars announced for the event, alongside Cody Rhodes, Rhea Ripley, Liv Morgan, Jey Uso, Charlotte Flair and several others.
Before he was removed from the lineup, Orton’s autograph and photo-op packages had sold out.
Randy Orton has not appeared on WWE programming since WrestleMania 42. In May, amid rumors of another back injury, he said he was simply enjoying the summer before returning to pursue his 15th world championship.