Randy Orton has officially returned to WWE television. “The Viper” had been absent from WWE TV since October 2025.
During the first WWE SmackDown show of the New Year of 2026 on January 2 at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, The Miz interrupted Michael Cole and Corey Graves as they were welcoming viewers to the show.
The Miz spoke about being sick of hearing everyone saying “Happy New Year.” He then mentioned how he wants to focus on the year of 2025. The Miz said he’s got some grievances he wants to air. He then began ranting about not getting an opportunity for closure with John Cena during “The Last Time Is Now” tour. He then said he’s the most decorated wrestler in the locker room and Randy Orton’s music hit to a big reaction from the crowd.
Orton made his way to the ring, posed for the fans, and then stared down The Miz. Orton grabbed a mic and The Miz said that it’s good to have him back on SmackDown.
Miz suggested that they join forces and become a tag team known as Miz-KO. Orton responded by hitting The Miz with the RKO and the fans chanted “one more time.” The Viper delivered as he picked Miz up, looking him in the eye, said “happy new year Miz” then hit him with a second RKO.
Later on the show, Orton was seen backstage with Cody Rhodes, issuing a clear warning: once Rhodes successfully defends his championship against Drew McIntyre, Orton will be coming for the title next.
