The Viper returns, a new spectacle - 4 directions for Randy Orton following WWE contract extension
Randy Orton recently agreed to a contract extension with WWE, keeping him with the company where he became a huge star. The Viper joins LA Knight and Natalya as WWE stars who recently agreed to new deals.
It's hard to remember the company without some presence from Orton over the last 20 years. He's been as important to proceedings as John Cena and has stayed loyal to Triple H.
Now that The Legend Killer is locked up with another contract, what's next? After agreeing to a new deal with WWE, Randy Orton could head in one of the next four directions.
#4. He beats Gunther and moves to RAW
While it was strange at first for Orton to emerge as Gunther's first challenger, it made sense after a brief explanation. The finish in the King of the Ring Finals was questionable as Orton's shoulder was off the mat.
The ruling was final, however, meaning that Gunther was still victorious. By addressing the misfire, WWE acknowledged an in-ring mistake rather than ignoring it. The Viper is a 14-time Champion and a believable threat to The Ring General.
Beating Gunther could be a possibility due to The Viper's standing in the company. He's endured over 20 years of punishment. Orton could shock the world by defeating Gunther and moving to RAW.
#3. The Legend Killer heads to NXT
Cody Rhodes going to NXT to mesh with some of the current talent was a huge deal. Roman Reigns never did that, but having main-roster stars—and one as important as Rhodes—do that is an endorsement of top stars and the brand.
If Orton is unsuccessful in his title pursuits, a huge change would be mixing up with the best NXT has to offer. He could stick around for one or two PLE cycles to give the brand a ratings boost.
Along with CM Punk, he's already advertised to make an appearance once NXT heads to the CW network.
#2. Randy Orton is the new part-time attraction
Brock Lesnar set the standard for what it meant to be a part-time performer in WWE. He would pop up at various times during the year for big events or big programs.
The Beast hasn't been around for the last year. John Cena has filled the part-time void a few times but announced he'll retire in 2025. With a new deal in tow, Orton could join the ranks of part-time stars.
His best days are in the past and his body has endured 20 years of wear and tear. Limiting his physicality to a few programs a year rather than every week could help prolong his career.
#1. The Viper strikes one of his closest allies
![How long will Randy Orton avoid the temptation of becoming the Undisputed WWE Champion? [Image Credit: WWE.com]](https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/08/4176a-17234975529634-1920.jpg)
The second Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes joined forces last fall at WarGames, fans knew that a title program would be in the future. All Rhodes had to do was beat Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40.
He did that and has continued to fight alongside his mentor, Orton. The Legend Killer has been stuck on 14 World Championship reigns in WWE. He could still break Ric Flair and John Cena's record of 16 reigns.
His nature is volatile so a heel turn against his supposed friend would provide WWE with a slam-dunk title program for a few months. It would also change the dynamics on SmackDown. LA Knight isn't turning heel, so Kevin Owens or Orton will have to.