40-year-old superstar to go after Randy Orton upon his WWE return? Exploring the possibility

Randy Orton has been away from WWE television for the past several weeks. With the company heading into the Royal Rumble season, The Viper could be gearing up for a blockbuster return. However, things may not play out well for him as a massive threat could be lurking in the shadows, waiting to hunt Orton. Aleister Black could go after The Apex Predator upon his return.

The 40-year-old is currently embroiled in a heated feud with Damian Priest on SmackDown. However, this rivalry is expected to culminate next week as the two men go head-to-head against each other. Once it is all said and done, Black will need a major program to maintain his momentum and elevate his status from midcard staple to main-event contender.

Therefore, targeting a returning Randy Orton would make perfect sense. The former NXT Champion could try to dismantle the veteran's legacy and make a bold statement. By ambushing Orton, Aleister Black could symbolically kill The Legend Killer using his own dark, mystical ways. He could do that to prove to everyone that even the apex predators can be hunted and broken.

The sole purpose of Black attacking The Viper could be to position himself as the superior harbinger of destruction in WWE's current landscape. The two superstars could embark on a compelling feud that could work as a springboard in Aleister Black's rise to the main event scene. It could not only inject The Anti-Hero in a high-profile feud but will keep Randy Orton actively involved on SmackDown heading into the Royal Rumble.

While the possibility of it happening is good, the above scenario is currently speculation. It remains to be seen how things shape up in the coming weeks and what the future holds for Orton.

Aleister Black to face Randy Orton at Royal Rumble 2026?

Royal Rumble is WWE's one of the major premium live events and the company keeps all the top stars in the forefront. The premium live event will take place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2026 and the company is leaving no stone unturned to make it a grand event by featuring marquee names.

Randy Orton was heavily seen promoting the event in Saudi Arabia a few days back as part of WWE's Riyadh season. Fans have been wondering whether The Viper could battle in a huge singles match against Aleister Black at Royal Rumble 2026. However, the chances of it happening seem low.

Even if WWE kickstars Orton and Black's feud on SmackDown, it may not lead to a singles match at the upcoming PLE. Recent reports state that the company is planning only four matches on the card, with two being the traditional Rumble matches and two championship showdowns.

Hence, Randy Orton could take part in the Men's Royal Rumble Match instead of competing in a singles match. Besides, whether he feuds with Aleister Black or not remains a big question. Only time will tell what Triple H has in store for The Apex Predator ahead of the Royal Rumble.

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Edited by Subhasish Deb