Randy Orton made a spectacular return to “WWE SmackDown,” teaming with Kevin Owens to achieve victory over Austin Theory and Grayson Waller. This marked Orton’s comeback following his last appearance, where he fell short against GUNTHER in his bid for a 15th world title at Bash In Berlin, and a brief stint with the “WWE Raw” brand.
On Friday’s broadcast, Owens was slated to face Theory and Waller but was initially left without a partner, with a mystery ally promised. The situation appeared grim when indie wrestler Ricky Gibson from the Midnight Heat emerged, though Owens revealed Gibson was a temporary stand-in due to travel issues with his preferred partner.
Owens swiftly showed his appreciation to Gibson with a Stunner and then introduced Orton as his actual partner, much to the crowd’s excitement. The match itself saw Theory and Waller gain an early advantage, even sending Owens crashing onto the announcer’s table.
However, Orton and Owens staged a dramatic comeback. Orton executed his signature RKO while Owens delivered a Stunner, leading to Orton pinning Waller to secure the win and cap off a triumphant return to the blue brand.