Randy Orton returned to WWE at SummerSlam 2026 Night 1 on August 1 and delivered an RKO to Cody Rhodes.
The moment occurred during the Undisputed WWE Championship match between champion CM Punk and Cody Rhodes at U.S. Bank Stadium. Orton had been absent from WWE television since losing to Rhodes at WrestleMania 42.
In the championship match, the referee was down after an exchange between the competitors. Orton entered the ring and applied his signature RKO to Rhodes. CM Punk then used the opportunity to finish the match and retain the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Orton, known as The Viper, has a long history with Rhodes. The two previously competed against each other at major events, including a title match at WrestleMania 42. Orton’s return marks his first appearance in several months.
SummerSlam 2026 Night 1 featured several championship matches and other contests. The Orton appearance took place in the main portion of the card involving the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Rhodes had challenged Punk for the title after a period of build up. The interference by Orton changed the direction of the match in the later stages.
Orton’s return sets up potential future storylines involving Rhodes and other competitors on the WWE roster. The event was part of the annual SummerSlam weekend.
he Night 1 results included other outcomes beyond the championship match involving Punk and Rhodes. Orton’s RKO on Rhodes was confirmed through official event coverage and multiple reports from the show. The Viper left the ring after the maneuver as Punk secured the win.