Randy Orton Comeback Update: When Is The Viper Returning To WWE?
Randy Orton, known as “The Viper”, is one of the most iconic athletes in the history of WWE. After a recent absence from TV, the 14-time world champion is reportedly gearing up for his big return. Wrestling media are pointing to the December 5, 2025, episode of SmackDown in Austin, Texas, as the likely date.
This article breaks down the latest on his comeback: what is confirmed, what remains speculative, and what it means for Orton and WWE’s end-of-year storytelling.
What Reports Say About Randy Orton’s Return Date
Multiple credible outlets report that WWE’s own events page lists Orton for the December 5, 2025, edition of SmackDown at the Moody Center in Austin. For example:
- Wrestleview reports the date is confirmed via WWE’s site.
- Ringside News also notes the December 5 date in its coverage.
- Additional sites, such as Wrestlezone, also affirm the same return window.
WWE are advertising Randy Orton for the December 5 episode of SmackDown, suggesting he will return to TV in the near future.
— Cultaholic Wrestling (@Cultaholic) November 17, 2025
The 45-year-old is also being advertised for the December 12, December 19, and January 2 tapings of SmackDown.
Orton has been off TV since an attack… pic.twitter.com/aZJL53wlyD
Why Is He Absent, And Why Does It Matter
Orton’s absence followed a tag-team loss on the October 3, 2025, SmackDown and a subsequent attack in a storyline that was used to write him off television.
Why this matters:
- Orton is a major draw for WWE programming; his return can boost ratings and storylines.
- His comeback timing just after Survivor Series and ahead of the Royal Rumble season positions him for a high-stakes role.
What To Expect From The Return – Match, Angle, Or Promo?
Although the date is reportedly set, specifics about his role remain unclear. Here are possibilities:
- A promo segment to reintroduce Orton, establish an opponent, or announce a match later.
- A match appearance, though some reports question whether he is fully cleared yet.
- A storyline pivot tied to major events, such as the planning for the Royal Rumble or WrestleMania.
What This Comeback Means For Randy Orton’s Legacy And WWE’s Calendar
For Randy Orton
- A successful return further cements his status in WWE history and may lead to more high-profile matches.
- It offers the chance to refresh his character or pursue new rivalries.
- It also presents some risk — an unsuccessful return or limited presence could impact his momentum.
For WWE
- WWE gets a big name back just as they move toward the end-of-year PLEs and the Royal Rumble cycle.
- Orton’s return can attract viewership, sponsorships, and media attention.
FAQs related to Randy Orton’s return
Q1: Is the December 5 date for Orton’s return officially confirmed by WWE?
A: WWE’s events page reportedly lists Orton for December 5 SmackDown, which is a strong indication, though WWE has not made a formal press announcement.
Q2: Will Randy Orton wrestle a match on his return or just appear?
A: It’s unclear. Some reports suggest that he may not be fully cleared for in-ring competition, so his return might be a promotional segment rather than a full match.
Q3: Why did Orton disappear from WWE television?
A: Storyline-wise, he was written off after an attack following a tag match on SmackDown. It also aligns with real-world considerations of his health and WWE’s scheduling.
Q4: What event will follow his return?
A: His return is timed just after Survivor Series and ahead of the Royal Rumble cycle, suggesting WWE has major storylines in mind.
Q5: How will Orton’s return affect other WWE talent?
A: Newer stars may get spotlighted in his return angle — Orton’s comeback could serve as a launching pad for rivalries, title shots, or storyline shifts for younger talent.
Randy Orton Comeback Update: When Is The Viper Returning To WWE?
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