Published: 2 minutes ago by Sanchez Taylor | Last Updated: 2 seconds ago by Sanchez Taylor
WWE
Following the conclusion of WWE Sunday Night’s Main Event, the post-match actions of Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton came under scrutiny.
The September 6 special featured a WrestleMania 42 rematch, as Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton competed in a singles match.
In the closing moments, Rhodes attempted to strike a bloodied Orton with a Punt Kick, but halted after the Viper pleaded for mercy.
Orton countered with a low blow, capitalizing with an RKO to secure the victory.
The broadcast concluded with both men in the ring as Orton cleaned his bloody face with a towel.
Given their recent post-show altercations, fans speculated whether the confrontation would continue beyond the live broadcast.
Matt Kempke subsequently released footage showing both competitors leaving the ring.
Orton exited first, rolling to the ringside area before making his way backstage without losing sight of Rhodes.
Rhodes received a warm ovation from the crowd. He declined to address the audience via microphone, instead acknowledging the fans silently before greeting his mother and Brandi Rhodes.
You can view the footage below.
During the final moments, Michael Cole noted on commentary that Orton won “by just surviving.”
This marks an intriguing direction for the Viper, who did not appear dominant in his first match since returning to WWE television.
Rhodes and Orton are now evenly matched in singles competition this year, with Rhodes retaining the Undisputed WWE Championship against his former mentor at WrestleMania 42.
Orton attacked Rhodes with the title belt and hit him with a Punt Kick to stand tall after the match.
The Viper was then absent from WWE television for three months, encompassing two Undisputed WWE Title changes, before returning at SummerSlam in early August.
Orton resurfaced during CM Punk’s Undisputed WWE Championship defense against Rhodes, costing Rhodes the match.
With their series tied at one apiece, the direction of a potential rubber match and how WWE concludes this storyline remains to be seen.
Randy Orton following WWE Sunday Night’s Main Event pic.twitter.com/kVPUl7J1Iw
— WrestleTalk (@WrestleTalk_TV) September 7, 2026