Last Friday was a night to forget for Randy Orton on WWE SmackDown when he came out to help his friend Cody Rhodes against The Bloodline. The numbers game got the better of Rhodes and Orton, with The Viper taking the brunt of the beatdown, even being sent through an announce table.
With Orton possibly out of action for a few weeks, Cody Rhodes will likely be all alone in his fight against The Bloodline at SummerSlam when he takes on Solo Sikoa for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Here are four signs Randy Orton will turn heel at SummerSlam.
#4. Recent premium live events' results
Randy Orton made a triumphant return from injury last year and was the final man announced on Team Rhodes, which emerged victorious over Judgment Day at Survivor Series.
However, The Viper has been on a losing streak in 2024, having lost all his PLE matches at Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, WrestleMania 40, Backlash France, King and Queen of the Ring, and the recently concluded Money in the Bank, where The Bloodline defeated Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, and Kevin Owens.
Orton is aware of his recent losses and could be looking to change his game moving forward. It is well known that The Viper performs best as a bad guy. SummerSlam might be the perfect time for a change in demeanor by turning heel. This could rejuvenate his character and set up intriguing storylines for the future.
#3. Frustrations with The Bloodline
The Bloodline has been a thorn in Randy Orton's side for a long time, even being responsible for his 18-month absence. The Apex Predator wants revenge against the group but may now be starting to get frustrated.
Despite his best efforts, The Bloodline always finds a way to come out on top, given its numerical advantage. This happened last week, too, when Orton was sent through the announce table. He could realize that this battle may not be worth it and ensure he remains healthy.
He could shockingly turn heel at SummerSlam and reach an agreement with The Bloodline that neither of them will get involved in each other's business. This alliance could help Orton focus on his career without constantly being targeted.
#2. Shocking moment at SummerSlam
SummerSlam, arguably the second biggest WWE premium live event after WrestleMania, is just over two weeks away, and the company is looking to book a memorable event for the fans.
Over the past few weeks, many have eagerly awaited Randy Orton's eventual heel turn. WWE knows how significant that moment would be when The Viper finally turns heel for the first time since his return from injury.
Hence, the creative could decide to have this heel turn at The Biggest Party of the Summer, where Randy could deliver an RKO out of nowhere to his tag team partner Kevin Owens in a shocking moment.
#1. Randy Orton wants the Undisputed WWE Championship
Last Friday, Randy Orton assured Cody Rhodes that he has his back and will continue to support him in the future. However, the latter should be wary, knowing that one can never fully trust a Viper.
Randy has been eyeing Rhodes' Undisputed WWE Championship for some time now and will strike at the opportune moment. As a 14-time world champion, Randy aims to approach the record held by Ric Flair and John Cena, who are currently tied at 16 world titles.
Randy might even assist Cody in retaining his title against Solo Sikoa at SummerSlam, only to betray him after the match with an RKO out of nowhere, signaling his intent to challenge Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship.