WWE claims star was set to step into the ring for the first time in 12 years to defend Randy Orton on SmackDown

Kevin Owens took out Randy Orton last week on WWE SmackDown when he used an illegal piledriver move. The WWE Universe was stunned by his actions and the company has since released a new angle of the video where it's clear that the fans were not the only ones in shock.

WWE noted that senior commentator Michael Cole was also prepared to step up and fight Owens after he assaulted Orton with the move.

WWE noted on their Instagram page that:

"@michaelcole was ready to fight Kevin Owens himself after this 😡."

Cole was clearly upset with the attack having worked with Randy Orton for more than two decades and created a friendship with him, he wanted to ensure that he was alright.

Will Kevin Owens be punished for his attack on Randy Orton on WWE SmackDown?

Kevin Owens appears to have the authority in his back pocket at present having avoided punishment for his attack on Randy Orton several weeks ago, his attack on Cody Rhodes, and even his attack on WWE officials at Crown Jewel.

Nick Aldis is a fan of handing out fines to stars who seem to think the rules are beneath them, but this could be above Aldis' head. It could come down to Triple H punishing him since he did use a move that WWE banned so the CCO should be the one to step in.

There is also a chance that Cody Rhodes could step in with rumors that the two men will battle at Survivor Series, but that would be more of a present than a punishment since he would then be allowed to compete for the World Championship.

WWE has backed themselves into a corner with this story and it will be interesting to see how they come out the other side on SmackDown.

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