4 Reasons why Randy Orton hasn’t returned to WWE yet

Randy Orton has been sidelined from WWE television for months now. He last appeared on SmackDown ahead of Crown Jewel: Perth, where he teamed up with Cody Rhodes to take on the Vision, but the heel stable brutally attacked him.

Fans were highly anticipating the Viper's return ahead of Survivor Series: WarGames 2025. However, it didn't come to fruition as the Apex Predator hasn't returned.

In this article, we will take a look at four potential reasons why Orton has not returned to the Stamford-based promotion:

#4. Holiday with his family

Since stepping away from the squared circle, The Viper has been spending quality time with his wife, Kim, kids, and family.

They have regularly shared pictures of their wholesome vacation on their official social media accounts. Two couples were also seen celebrating the wedding anniversary together. His wanting to spend more time with his family could be another reason why he is not back yet.

#3. Waiting until after the Thanksgiving season

People around the world are currently celebrating Thanksgiving with their families, and there is a strong possibility that the Viper is eyeing a return to a full-time schedule after this season.

World Wrestling Entertainment is advertising him for the aftermath edition of WWE SmackDown after Survivor Series: WarGames 2025 Premium Live Event.

#2. He is done being a babyface

The Apex Predator has been a babyface superstar for a long time, but throughout his career, he has delivered his best moments as a heel.

That said, his returning and joining babyface against a pack of major heels would have made no sense if he were to turn a heel again eventually.

#1. His heel turn at WWE Survivor Series would’ve taken a backseat to WarGames

The 45-year-old seems bound to turn heel and build his rivalry against Cody Rhodes. However, the Apex Predator turning on the American Nightmare at WWE WarGames, which was already stacked with major names, would have ruined both moments.

Randy turning heel on his Prodigy will be a grand moment and needs a whole separate segment on a show; that could be another reason he did not return to pull the trigger.