The Viper jokes with fans amid WWE return speculation
Summary
– Randy Orton responded to online injury concern with a sarcastic message to fans
– Reports claimed Orton’s WWE absence is tied to a significant lingering back issue
– WWE is currently advertising Orton for the May 29 SmackDown in Barcelona
Randy Orton has responded to fan concern about his health with a message that sounded exactly like The Viper.
After reports claimed Orton has been dealing with a significant back injury, he jumped on social media and joked that he was milking it. Orton also said he was trying to enjoy his summer before coming back to take number 15.
The message came after Dave Meltzer said on Wrestling Observer Radio that Orton’s absence is connected to a back issue that has bothered him for years. Meltzer also said the injury was serious enough at one point to nearly end Orton’s career.
Orton has not been a regular part of WWE television since WrestleMania 42. His absence has led to more speculation, as WWE recently began advertising him for the May 29 episode of SmackDown in Barcelona, Spain.
That listing has fueled talk that WWE may be preparing to bring Orton back around Clash in Italy. His post did not directly deny the injury report, but it did calm some of the panic while keeping fans guessing.
Orton’s response fits his usual online style. Whether he is truly downplaying the issue or simply having fun with the reaction, fans are now watching closely to see when The Viper strikes again.
Lmao just milking it guys, leave me alone I’m trying to enjoy my summer before I come back and take that #15 https://t.co/dG49ObenGJ
— Randy Orton (@RandyOrton) May 17, 2026
