Randy Orton is reportedly working through a physical issue and a possible injury as he heads into his Undisputed WWE Championship match against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42.
According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Orton’s condition could impact the outcome of the match despite recent storyline developments suggesting otherwise.
Meltzer pointed to Pat McAfee’s promo on the April 10 episode of SmackDown, where McAfee stated that if Orton fails to defeat Rhodes, he would walk away from WWE. That line made it seem like an Orton victory was heavily implied.
“Perhaps most notable in the McAfee promo is that he said that if Randy Orton doesn’t beat Cody Rhodes for the title, that he will never do anything involving WWE again. Obviously that is not happening. In fact, the only result, given that promo, that was almost completely clear is Orton winning. We were told that Orton is hurting so there is a possibility that would change, as it would make no sense for Orton to win if he has to take time off, but McAfee’s statement came across like it’s as close to a lock as possible,” Meltzer wrote.
However, the report notes that Orton’s physical condition introduces uncertainty. If he requires time off, it could affect WWE’s plans, as having him win the championship only to step away would not align with typical booking decisions.
Meltzer also referenced the reported match planned for Backlash on May 9, which would see Rhodes team with Jelly Roll against Orton and McAfee. That match remaining on the schedule suggests that neither McAfee’s teased WWE exit nor an extended absence for Orton is currently expected.
Rhodes is set to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Orton in the night one main event of WrestleMania 42 on April 18 at Allegiant Stadium, with McAfee in Orton’s corner.
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