Randy Orton Makes Dramatic Return at WWE SummerSlam

Randy Orton made his return to WWE during SummerSlam, targeting Cody Rhodes in a dramatic turn of events.

In a closely contested match, CM Punk managed to retain the WWE Championship with assistance from Orton, who delivered an RKO to Rhodes after Punk had crashed through an announce table. Unaware of Orton's involvement, Punk executed his finishing move, the GTS, to secure the victory.

This appearance marked Orton's first on WWE television since WrestleMania 42, where he lost to Rhodes. Orton had been sidelined due to a recurring back injury, although he later mentioned he was taking time off to deal with his WrestleMania defeat. Rhodes had previously held the championship until losing it to Sami Zayn at Night of Champions.