Dave Meltzer has provided a new update on Randy Orton’s absence from WWE television following WrestleMania 42.
Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer stated that Randy Orton is currently dealing with the same long-term back injury issues that nearly ended his career several years ago.
“Back injury. That’s why he’s been gone since WrestleMania and it’s probably why he didn’t win the title,” Meltzer said. “He’s got a back injury and it’s significant.”
According to Meltzer, the injury has continued to affect Orton despite his return from spinal fusion surgery in 2023.
“He’s had it for years. It almost ended his career, came back, still there and that’s why he’s been out,” Meltzer added.
Orton underwent spinal fusion surgery in 2022 after suffering a serious back injury earlier that year. At the time, there was concern that the issue could permanently end his in-ring career. The former world champion eventually returned at Survivor Series after an 18-month absence, but reports have consistently indicated the injury never fully healed.
The update also follows previous reports suggesting WWE had internally discussed putting the Undisputed WWE Championship on Orton at WrestleMania before plans changed late in the creative process.
Both Bodyslam and Fightful Select previously reported that there had been internal consideration of Randy Orton defeating Cody Rhodes before WWE ultimately decided to keep the title on Rhodes.
Orton earned the WrestleMania title shot after winning the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber match. Rhodes retained the championship at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, although the rivalry appeared to continue after Orton attacked Rhodes following the match and delivered a punt kick.
He had also reportedly been planned for a tag team match involving Rhodes, Jelly Roll and Pat McAfee at Backlash before those plans were changed.
When Was Randy Orton’s Last WWE Match?
Randy Orton’s last WWE match took place at WrestleMania 42 Night One, where he unsuccessfully challenged Cody Rhodes for his Undisputed WWE Championship.
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