Add as a preferred source on Google Randy Orton remains off WWE television with a recurring back injury.
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that Orton had been scheduled to beat Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania 42 before his back pain resurfaced. The pain led WWE to change the finish and keep the title on Rhodes.
Rhodes pinned Orton in the April 18 Night 1 main event after Orton turned on Pat McAfee and dropped McAfee with an RKO. Orton attacked Rhodes with the title and hit a punt kick after the bell, closing Night 1 standing over the champion.
The WrestleMania match remains Orton’s most recent appearance. Dave Meltzer later reported on Wrestling Observer Radio that the recurring injury was also the reason Orton had stayed off television.
Orton downplayed that report on social media in May, writing that he was enjoying his summer before returning to pursue a 15th world title. He did not deny that his back was bothering him.
The back issue previously kept Orton out for 18 months, from May 2022 until Survivor Series 2023. He underwent double fusion surgery during that absence.
WWE hasn’t announced a timetable for Orton’s return.