Randy Orton might have given away major hint about potential heel turn on WWE SmackDown

Randy Orton has been a popular babyface since returning last November, but a heel turn could be on the cards judging by tonight's WWE SmackDown. The Viper, Cody Rhodes, and Kevin Owens were embroiled in a brawl with The Bloodline to kickstart the show.

Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes insisted he should be defending the title tonight against "seat filler" Solo Sikoa. Randy Orton gave his former Legacy co-member and close friend a telling look that hinted at his ulterior intentions.

Check out the look from The Viper below:

Randy Orton similarly hinted about his potential title aspirations and potential heel turn at Clash at the Castle: Scotland earlier this month. He and Kevin Owens helped Cody Rhodes fight off The Bloodline, but he stared longingly at the Undisputed WWE Championship.

RKO last challenged for the World Title at Royal Rumble in a Fatal Four Way Match. Roman Reigns prevailed against The Viper, Owens, and AJ Styles, and the legend has since been in a feud with Logan Paul and The Bloodline 2.0.

However, The Apex Predator is a long-term challenger for Rhodes and arguably his biggest test to date. The latter is expected to defend his title at SummerSlam against Sikoa, which could be the destination for RKO's major heel turn.

---

"I know that it's in the cards" - Randy Orton expects to be Undisputed WWE Champion

Randy Orton is a 14-time world champion and one of the most decorated stars in history. He's held the WWE Championship 10 times and the World Heavyweight Championship on four occasions.

Cody Rhodes is enjoying his first reign as world champion, but given his track record, he should be wary of The Viper. He's stated in the past that although he's not desperate to win a 15th world title, he expects to do so:

"So, making it fifteen, making it sixteen, like, ofcourse, I would love for that to happen. It doesn't keep me up at night, dreaming of that next title shot, because I think I know that it's in the cards. I feel healthy enough, I feel like I've got plenty of time left in my career to where I'm going to come back around, and I'm going to be wearing that title at least one or two more times."

A title match between Rhodes and Orton would be one for the ages, given their history. The American Nightmare said that the Legend Killer is why he is where he is during his WWE SmackDown promo.

That much is true as Orton recruited Rhodes as a member of his Legacy faction during the early stages of the world champion's career. He worked closely with the former AEW star to become a top star.

---

Cody Rhodes vs Randy Orton should take place at WWE Summerslam

Cody Rhodes looks likely to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Solo Sikoa at SummerSlam. The Bloodline storyline is one of the most captivating in the company, but the matchup itself perhaps doesn't feel big-time.

Sikoa is still climbing the ranks in WWE, albeit working as the new Tribal Chief. He's leading The Bloodline against Rhodes, Randy Orton, and Kevin Owens at Money in the Bank next Saturday (July 6).

However, Jacob Fatu made his debut last week and arguably outshone the rest of the faction. Sikoa doesn't feel like a main event talent just yet at SummerSlam and could use a higher-profile match.

Randy Orton challenging Cody Rhodes for the title would be one of the biggest main events this year. Their collision could come after a heel turn at Money in the Bank, while Roman Reigns could return to deal with Sikoa's new Bloodline.

---

Randy Orton could pull off one of the biggest heel turns in history

Randy Orton has become synonymous with evil twists and turns during his illustrious career. He spent several years as the Legend Killer, taking out legends such as Mick Foley, Ric Flair, and The Undertaker.

The Viper was more sadistic, often using weapons to punish his victims. John Cena often felt his wrath, including being handcuffed to a turnbuckle and whipped with kendo sticks.

Cody Rhodes could be next up on Orton's list of shocking heel turns and be in for a tough time. The Apex Predator has been all smiles since returning last year, making his next heel turn much more unpredictable.