Randy Orton has had a consistent presence on WWE programming for decades now, but The Viper has been out of action since May of 2022, and he underwent a lower back fusion surgery last year.
Fightful Select reports that Randy Orton has been healing up, but as of this week he has not been factored into creative plans. Randy Orton has not been cleared for in-ring competition, and there haven’t been any extensive conversations regarding what the company has planned for him when he does return.
As of right now Randy Orton is planning to return to the ring, but it was also noted that in-ring training has not resumed for The Viper. It was also noted that a lower back fusion is not typical for pro wrestlers and is considered to be uncharted territory. Doctors have told Orton that returning to wrestling isn’t a good idea, but he’s still planning on making a comeback.
Orton has resumed lifting and it’s being said that he’s become “huge” as a result. The former WWE Champion has also resumed working out, but hasn’t been bumping in the ring. It’s expected that he will be brought into the Performance Center at some point.
When the question was brought up about Orton possibly returning at SummerSlam a source noted that they wouldn’t count on it, and that he hasn’t been factored into creative. If Randy Orton is planning on returning at SummerSlam then his return is being kept quiet.
