OFFICIAL: WWE replaces Randy Orton after John Cena retirement

WWE legend Randy Orton has officially been replaced by the Stamford-based promotion after his long-time rival John Cena's retirement. The Viper is currently absent from TV.

John Cena wrestled in his final match against Gunther at Saturday Night's Main Event on December 13, 2025. Several wrestling legends attended Cena's retirement, including his former rivals, CM Punk and Cody Rhodes. However, The Chain Gang Soldier's 'wrestling soulmate' was nowhere to be seen. Although Randy Orton had been off television since October, many expected him to return for Cena's final outing inside the ring, but that did not happen.

Amid uncertainty over his wrestling future, Randy Orton was recently shockingly replaced by the TKO-led company. The Viper, along with several other stars, including John Cena, was removed from the Superstars banner on WWE's site. Cena's removal isn't a surprise as he is no longer an in-ring competitor, but replacing Orton from the banner raises questions about his wrestling future.

Check out the changes WWE made to the Superstars banner in the post below:

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Randy Orton explained his absence from John Cena's WWE retirement

After John Cena's retirement, Randy Orton took to Instagram to dedicate a post to The GOAT. The Apex Predator highlighted that he came into the wrestling world alongside Cena, and they have faced each other inside the ring multiple times.

Orton added that he wanted to be at Saturday Night's Main Event for Cena's retirement, but he was busy promoting the Royal Rumble and Riyadh Season in Saudi Arabia.

"I broke into the wrestling business and grew up for the past 2 decades alongside@johncenaI wrestled with or against him 100 times, at least. I would have enjoyed being there in DC for#wwe #snme and witness his emotional send-off into retirement. But I know if ANYONE understands my absence, it’s John, because I was in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia#KSA promoting #riyadhseason and #royalrumble," wrote Orton.

It remains to be seen what the Triple H-led creative team has planned for Randy Orton's future in the company.

Edited by Aashrit Satija