Add as a preferred source on Google Randy Orton still does not have a confirmed date to return to WWE television, even though his name continues to appear for some events officially advertised by the company.
“The Viper” was previously promoted for the May 29 episode of Friday Night SmackDown in Barcelona, which led to speculation that he could reappear before Clash in Italy. That did not happen. Now, Orton is also listed for future editions of the show, including Providence and Kansas City, fueling more rumors about an imminent return.
On WWE’s official website, for example, Orton is listed among the featured stars for the June 19 SmackDown at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri.
Even so, the actual situation appears to be very different. According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select, there has been no indication so far that WWE is planning to bring Orton back on this week’s SmackDown or the following episode.
Orton has been off television since WrestleMania 42, when he was defeated by Cody Rhodes in the main event in an Undisputed WWE Championship match. After the bout, The Viper attacked Rhodes, leaving the rivalry open for a possible continuation when he returns.
In other words, while Orton’s presence in official advertising has fueled speculation, that does not mean his return is locked in. For now, WWE appears to be holding off on that moment, with no rush to put him back on television.