Randy Orton wrestled for the first time since WrestleMania 42, facing Cody Rhodes in a rematch Thursday at a WWE live event in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Footage from vlogger Matt Kempke showed a spirited affair that exceeded their previous meeting on WWE’s grandest stage.
Any concerns about Orton’s health were quickly forgotten as he came out firing, attacking Rhodes during introductions. Orton gave as good as he got, being rammed into the steel steps and taking a kendo stick across the back.
It appeared
Orton might eat a superplex through a table set up in the ring. Instead, he blocked the move, raked Rhodes’ eyes, then shoved him off the top rope, sending “The American Nightmare” crashing through the table.
The two exchanged false finishes, first, Orton surviving a Cross Rhodes. Then, Rhodes kicked out of an RKO. The end came when Rhodes avoided a punt kick and sent Orton head-first into a chair set up in the corner. He followed with another Cross Rhodes that spelled the end for “The Viper.”
In April, reports surfaced that Orton was hurting heading into the main event of WrestleMania Saturday against Rhodes in a match that featured celebrity involvement from Pat McAfee and Jelly Roll.
After losing to Rhodes, Orton punted him in the head, leaving Rhodes a bloodied mess. Instead of following up on the angle, Orton disappeared from programming.
As reports about his back being injured continued to circulate, Orton responded in May, writing on X, “Lmao just milking it guys, leave me alone I’m trying to enjoy my summer before I come back and take that #15,” referring to his chase for a 15th world title.
The time off seemed to do him well, as Orton, who returned to WWE at SummerSlam, looked like he hadn’t missed a beat. Rhodes, whose tour bus broke down on the way to the show, was his usual upbeat self upon making his entrance.
For a live event, this was as good as any match fans will find on television or at a premium live event. Thursday’s contest not only rivaled their WrestleMania showing but also their 2025 King of the Ring final in Saudi Arabia.
If New Hampshire is any indication, their eventual showdown on a bigger stage could wow viewers.
