Randy Orton wont be stepping into the ring with Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 41and hes not happy about it.
As revealed during the April 4th, 2025 edition of WWE SmackDown, the originally planned match between Orton and Owens is officially off the table. Owens is undergoing neck surgery, ruling him out of action and leaving Orton without a confirmed spot just days before WWEs biggest event of the year in Las Vegas.
The Viper isnt sitting quietly. In a video released by WWE, Orton addressed the situation directly: Im going to find out on SmackDown Friday. At least I better find out or Nick Aldis is eating yet another RKO, which I will pay the fine happily. He continued, But honestly, I have no idea whats going on. But I have my gear. I got my boots. Ill be all warmed up in that ring, and Im calling somebody out. I got to do something. I got to give the fans here in Vegas an RKO at WrestleMania. I got to. Its number 20. What the hell, right? Wish me luck.
Orton was already vocal about wanting a moment at WrestleMania 41, telling Complex, It would be a shame if I wasnt somehow put in a position where I can at least hit an RKO at WrestleMania.
The match cancellation is a tough blow for both Orton and Owens. My heart breaks for Kevin, Orton said in his Complex interview, showing respect for his longtime partner amid the unexpected change in plans.
Despite not having a match locked in, Orton made a clear statement on SmackDown by dropping GM Nick Aldis with an RKOa move fans took as a warning: dont count him out.
WrestleMania 41 kicks off this weekend at Allegiant Stadium, and while Ortons role remains unclear, one things for surehes not leaving Vegas without someone eating an RKO.
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