Randy Orton's Injury Update: Backstage news on the Viper after the dangerous match against Cody Rhodes
Randy Orton battled with Cody Rhodes in a brutal King of the Ring final at WWE Night of Champions 2025 in Riyadh that had fans worrying for the Viper's well-being. It was as emotional as the match was physical, with Orton getting a superplex, which is always a high-risk maneuver, early in the contest.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
He landed on his back, making that even more worrying since he had spinal surgery last year. Even as the match continued, it was clear Orton was in some sort of pain. Each movement was something unusual, and his fans could see that he was wincing in pain.
Medical concerns and latest update over Randy Orton's back injury
Randy Orton reportedly aggravated a past spinal injury, according to backstage reports. Due to severe back problems, he'd been out for almost a year and a half during the 2022-23 season when he returned from intensive rehab and surgery.
WWE officials and medical staff immediately raised red flags upon seeing him walk off after the match, favoring one side, hunched.
WWE doctors are still assessing the damage. There hasn't been an official statement yet, but sources familiar with the condition of Orton say that he is in a great deal of agony and could end up needing time away. Orton's post-match body language was also talked about in wrestling circles as not being part of any angle; he was hurt, and it was real pain and frustration in the backstage area as wrestling kayfabe saw fears of an injury setback.
With SummerSlam fast approaching, there are also rumors that if Orton is unable to compete (possibly in the near future), WWE may change some creative plans.
Potential impact and SummerSlam implications
The assumption was a new long-term feud with Rhodes having just punched his ticket to SummerSlam, most likely with the opportunity to challenge for the world title. Still, that plot may be in jeopardy due to Orton's current conditions. Should the Viper require time off or rehabilitation, WWE would be left to alter course and provide Rhodes with the likes of John Cena or CM Punk, both of whom find themselves in the title conversation, as a new opponent.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Also Read:
How WWE builds its main event scene in the future is going to depend largely on Randy Orton's health. The company could also be saving Orton's return for a bigger pop later this year. As of now, fans and officials alike are hoping this isn't the start of another long injury layoff for one of WWE's most respected veterans.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Economic Times
12 minutes ago
- Economic Times
WWE Raw on Netflix Tonight: Here's when you can stream the special episode broadcast live
Special Early Start for WWE Raw Tonight WWE Raw Location: Pittsburgh Plays Host WWE Raw Preview: Fallout from Night of Champions Live Events John Cena, with a surprise assist from Seth Rollins, defeated CM Punk, reigniting debates over Cena's legendary status and Punk's future. Cody Rhodes and Jade Cargill were crowned King and Queen of the Ring, respectively, marking a powerful ascension for both superstars. Solo Sikoa clinched the United States Championship by overcoming Jacob Fatu in a fierce battle. Rhea Ripley to Open Raw, Gunther Targets Goldberg Official Match Card: Championships and Rivalries WWE Tag Team Championship Match: The New Day take on the formidable team of Finn Balor and JD McDonagh in a title bout that could shift tag team power dynamics. Sami Zayn and Penta vs. Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed: A hard-hitting tag team contest expected to showcase rising talent. Sheamus vs. Rusev: A clash of brawlers that promises intensity and emotion as both veterans seek to cement their legacy in the current era. How to Watch WWE Raw on Netflix Basic Plan with Ads: $7.99/month Standard Plan (Ad-Free): $17.99/month Premium Plan: $24.99/month WWE Raw Marks a New Streaming Milestone FAQs What is special about tonight's WWE Raw episode? What time does WWE Raw start today? (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel The world of professional wrestling braces for a high-voltage edition of WWE Raw this evening, as the flagship show of World Wrestling Entertainment gears up for an early start and a packed match card following the explosive Night of Champions event. Live from the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this special edition of Monday Night Raw promises pivotal storylines, title defenses, and a new era on are advised to take note of the revised start time for this week's WWE Raw. Owing to WWE's plans to pre-tape the Fourth of July episode of Friday Night SmackDown, Raw will kick off at 6:00 p.m. ET (3:30 a.m. IST, July 1)—an hour earlier than its usual slot, aas mentioned in a report by programming shift coincides with WWE's recent global streaming transition, as Raw is now available exclusively on Netflix, marking a new chapter in the digital delivery of sports edition of Raw unfolds from the iconic PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Steel City crowd is expected to bring its usual high-octane energy as several major storylines continue to unfold post-Night of WWE universe is still abuzz following the dramatic turn of events at Night of Champions, and tonight's Raw will address the repercussions of several major results:Tonight's Raw will begin with Rhea Ripley, who is scheduled to address the WWE Universe following her high-profile win over Raquel Rodriguez at Night of Champions. With her dominance in the women's division unquestioned, Ripley's next move remains the subject of to the intrigue, Gunther—known for his stoic demeanor and in-ring prowess—will deliver a message directed at Goldberg, signaling potential build-up toward a marquee WWE has confirmed several headline matches for this special Raw episode:Additionally, WWE officials Adam Pearce and Nick Aldis are slated to make a major announcement, further heightening anticipation around tonight's can catch all the action exclusively on Netflix, as WWE continues its new partnership with the streaming giant. Subscription options include:With Raw now part of Netflix's global offering, fans in India and around the world can enjoy live WWE action from anywhere, edition of WWE Raw signifies not just a reshuffling of the weekly wrestling calendar, but also WWE's deepening venture into digital-first programming. As Netflix increasingly positions itself as a player in live sports entertainment, this week's Raw—set in a passionate wrestling city with a rich history—sets the tone for how WWE's flagship content may evolve in the months fans awaiting high drama, athleticism, and storyline developments, tonight's WWE Raw promises to deliver all that and more—at a slightly earlier bell episode of WWE Raw features a revised early start time, fallout from the Night of Champions, and the beginning of a new streaming era on Netflix. It also includes major matches, storyline developments, and a surprise announcement by WWE Raw airs one hour earlier than usual — starting at 6:00 p.m. ET / 3:30 a.m. IST (July 1) to accommodate the pre-taping of the upcoming SmackDown episode.
Time of India
35 minutes ago
- Time of India
WWE Raw on Netflix Tonight: Here's when you can stream the special episode broadcast live
The world of professional wrestling braces for a high-voltage edition of WWE Raw this evening, as the flagship show of World Wrestling Entertainment gears up for an early start and a packed match card following the explosive Night of Champions event. Live from the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this special edition of Monday Night Raw promises pivotal storylines, title defenses, and a new era on Netflix. Special Early Start for WWE Raw Tonight Fans are advised to take note of the revised start time for this week's WWE Raw. Owing to WWE's plans to pre-tape the Fourth of July episode of Friday Night SmackDown, Raw will kick off at 6:00 p.m. ET (3:30 a.m. IST, July 1)—an hour earlier than its usual slot, aas mentioned in a report by Decider. This programming shift coincides with WWE's recent global streaming transition, as Raw is now available exclusively on Netflix, marking a new chapter in the digital delivery of sports entertainment. WWE Raw Location: Pittsburgh Plays Host Tonight's edition of Raw unfolds from the iconic PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Steel City crowd is expected to bring its usual high-octane energy as several major storylines continue to unfold post-Night of Champions. WWE Raw Preview: Fallout from Night of Champions The WWE universe is still abuzz following the dramatic turn of events at Night of Champions, and tonight's Raw will address the repercussions of several major results: Live Events John Cena, with a surprise assist from Seth Rollins, defeated CM Punk, reigniting debates over Cena's legendary status and Punk's future. Cody Rhodes and Jade Cargill were crowned King and Queen of the Ring, respectively, marking a powerful ascension for both superstars. Solo Sikoa clinched the United States Championship by overcoming Jacob Fatu in a fierce battle. Rhea Ripley to Open Raw, Gunther Targets Goldberg Tonight's Raw will begin with Rhea Ripley, who is scheduled to address the WWE Universe following her high-profile win over Raquel Rodriguez at Night of Champions. With her dominance in the women's division unquestioned, Ripley's next move remains the subject of speculation. Adding to the intrigue, Gunther—known for his stoic demeanor and in-ring prowess—will deliver a message directed at Goldberg, signaling potential build-up toward a marquee face-off. Official Match Card: Championships and Rivalries The WWE has confirmed several headline matches for this special Raw episode: WWE Tag Team Championship Match : The New Day take on the formidable team of Finn Balor and JD McDonagh in a title bout that could shift tag team power dynamics. Sami Zayn and Penta vs. Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed: A hard-hitting tag team contest expected to showcase rising talent. Sheamus vs. Rusev: A clash of brawlers that promises intensity and emotion as both veterans seek to cement their legacy in the current era. Additionally, WWE officials Adam Pearce and Nick Aldis are slated to make a major announcement, further heightening anticipation around tonight's broadcast. How to Watch WWE Raw on Netflix Viewers can catch all the action exclusively on Netflix, as WWE continues its new partnership with the streaming giant. Subscription options include: Basic Plan with Ads: $7.99/month Standard Plan (Ad-Free): $17.99/month Premium Plan: $24.99/month With Raw now part of Netflix's global offering, fans in India and around the world can enjoy live WWE action from anywhere, anytime. WWE Raw Marks a New Streaming Milestone Tonight's edition of WWE Raw signifies not just a reshuffling of the weekly wrestling calendar, but also WWE's deepening venture into digital-first programming. As Netflix increasingly positions itself as a player in live sports entertainment, this week's Raw—set in a passionate wrestling city with a rich history—sets the tone for how WWE's flagship content may evolve in the months ahead. For fans awaiting high drama, athleticism, and storyline developments, tonight's WWE Raw promises to deliver all that and more—at a slightly earlier bell time. FAQs What is special about tonight's WWE Raw episode? Tonight's episode of WWE Raw features a revised early start time, fallout from the Night of Champions, and the beginning of a new streaming era on Netflix. It also includes major matches, storyline developments, and a surprise announcement by WWE officials. What time does WWE Raw start today? WWE Raw airs one hour earlier than usual — starting at 6:00 p.m. ET / 3:30 a.m. IST (July 1) to accommodate the pre-taping of the upcoming SmackDown episode.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
The Undertaker calls for professionalism following WWE legend's unexpected walkout from show
On the most recent episode of WWE LFG (Legends & Future Greats), a WWE legend walked out mid-taping in the biggest incident to date. The incident occurred shortly after tempers boiled over between the mentors on the show, with Booker T storming off set after a spat over the choice of competitors. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The audience and WWE greats in attendance were stunned when this departure happened, and spoke up, sending a powerful message about professionalism. The Undertaker's message reverberates through the locker room In the aftermath of that incident, The Undertaker reportedly spoke to the cast and crew and made a strong case for order. Though he didn't specifically name names, he was referencing the walkout of Booker T. Sources say that The Undertaker made it clear that mentoring WWE LFG comes with an obligation to be an example, in and out of the ring. He then suggested that one should not command, no matter how great a legacy or how many accolades one carries, without respect. While The Deadman certainly spoke in a composed manner, his message spoke volumes to those in attendance. It also reminded us that this was more than just a competition; it was about character and legacy, too. A shift in atmosphere among mentors Insider managed to confirm that the walkout has created an impact on the vibes of the show. WWE LFG was all about guidance and legacy, and combining seasoned veterans with blossoming talent to create stars of the future. But when legends use petty grievances to eclipse the mission, it threatens to burn the buzz from the series. Also Read: Following the incident, fans are now wondering what Booker T does from here and if the tensions between mentors will have an effect on the show moving onward. Elsewhere, and embodying a leading-by-example mentality, The Undertaker is also continuing to establish a standard that being in WWE, at any level, demands far more than talent; it requires professionalism and decorum, and a respect for the business above all else. As WWE LFG plays out, fans will be watching to see if The Undertaker's message brings everyone together, or whether wider rifts among the legends are also yet to come to light.
