In the weeks leading up to “WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders, Chairs……and Stairs” on Dec. 14, it was rumored that Randy Orton would be making his highly-anticipated return at Quicken Loans Arena for the event.

Orton has been away from WWE programming since being attacked by Seth Rollins and The Authority on an episode of “Monday Night Raw.”

During his on-screen absence, “The Viper” has worked on WWE Studios’ latest film, “The Condemned 2: Desert Prey.”

He was given the day off on Sunday and spent it hiking with his girlfriend, as he revealed on his official Twitter account:

Plans are still in motion for Orton to continue a program with Seth Rollins upon his return, possibly setting up a bout between the two at the “Royal Rumble” pay-per-view at the end of January.

That may be pushed off, though, as he’s currently advertised to be facing Kane at a series of WWE Live Events in the upcoming weeks.

Editor’s Note

With Roman Reigns returning at WWE “TLC” on Sunday, there wasn’t a need for any Orton sighting on the card. You can only have so many major returns on one show before it becomes crowded.

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