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Randy Orton made his presence felt on the latest episode of Monday Night RAW in what was a blockbuster surprise for fans. His unexpected appearance on the show left a trail of excitement among the WWE Universe. In a shocking turn of events, The Viper confronted the newly crowned World Heavyweight Champion, Gunther, in the middle of the ring.
The Apex Predator challenged The Ring General to a match at the upcoming Bash in Berlin Premium Live Event. The fact that Orton appeared on RAW and challenged for the world title despite being part of SmackDown left a whirlpool of speculation among fans, with many wondering the real reason behind Randy's bold move.
Let's look at five reasons why Randy Orton possibly left SmackDown and joined WWE RAW.
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#5. To herald a fresh storyline on RAW
Randy Orton has been involved in a never-ending rivalry with The Bloodline in recent months on SmackDown. It is a feud that has been going on for months without intending to end, perpetuating in an endless loop. It wouldn't be a stretch to say that Orton's storyline with the heel faction came to a dead end with no clear and distinctive direction.
The stagnation may have prompted The Viper's sudden jump to the red brand. He seemingly joined Monday Night RAW to herald a fresh storyline on the brand. While it could be a momentary move, it will undeniably pave the way for a good storyline with Gunther and make him a permanent fixture on the red brand.
Besides, this move was paramount to extracting him from The Bloodline saga and ushering in a new chapter for him after SummerSlam.
#4. In pursuit of a World Title
It's been a long time since Randy Orton has held a World Title in WWE. Despite being a 14-time World Champion and having a legendary career, The Viper has not been around the championship picture in recent years, which has arguably affected his credibility as a top contender to some extent.
However, with Cody Rhodes holding the Undisputed WWE Championship, Orton might have been reluctant to ask for a title shot due to his close friendship with The American Nightmare. Therefore, The Apex Predator seemingly moved to Monday Night RAW in pursuit of a World Title as he challenged the newly crowned World Heavyweight Champion.
Moreover, he has scores to settle with Gunther, which gives him a strong reason to go after the World Heavyweight Championship and not the Undisputed WWE Title.
#3. No credible challengers are currently available for Gunther on RAW
One of the major reasons Randy Orton may have moved to Monday Night RAW was the lack of credible challengers for Gunther. While it might sound far-fetched, all the top stars of the flagship brand are currently entangled in their respective storylines. It includes superstars like Drew McIntyre, Finn Balor, Sheamus, CM Punk, Damian Priest, and Sami Zayn.
Hence, with The Ring General in pursuit of a legitimate contender for his first World Heavyweight Championship defense, it may have prompted The Viper to step up and move to Monday Night RAW. The reigning King of the Ring battling the 14-time World Champion would kick off his title reign in a spectacular way.
Moreover, defeating Orton in his inaugural championship defense at the Bash in Berlin Premium Live Event will undeniably add grandeur to Gunther's World Heavyweight Championship reign.
#2. To revive Randy Orton's status as The Apex Predator
Randy Orton's career has arguably gone downhill in recent years, as he has been struggling to get involved in the main event picture. Moreover, the legendary superstar has been suffering defeat after defeat, which has been keeping him away from championship glory.
Therefore, the former Evolution member could have moved to RAW to restore his status as The Apex Predator. And what could be better than hunting down a formidable force like Gunther? Orton seems to be on a mission to once again establish himself at the top of the food chain by dethroning The Ring General and capturing the World Heavyweight Championship.
The Legend Killer could revive his career by defeating Gunther and claiming the World Title. Randy Orton could once again show the world why he earned the reputation of being The Apex Predator.
#1. To settle the scores with Gunther
The biggest reason behind Randy Orton's possible move to Monday Night RAW is his unfinished business with Gunther. Ever since suffering a controversial loss against The Ring General in the final of the King of the Ring tournament, The Viper has been looking for an opportunity to get his hands on the Austrian star.
A burning desire for retribution has been boiling within him all this time. Now that Gunther is the World Heavyweight Champion, Orton found the perfect moment to strike, reigniting the fire for redemption. The Apex Predator confronted the Imperium leader on RAW to settle the scores and put an end to this saga.
This was the primary catalyst that prompted Randy Orton's confrontation with Gunther on the RAW after SummerSlam. It will be interesting to see if Orton becomes a permanent fixture on the red brand following his match with the former IC Champion in Berlin later this month.
