Reason Why Randy Orton Didn’t Appear at “Royal Rumble”

It had been reported for weeks that Randy Orton was expected to make his return to WWE with an appearance at the “Royal Rumble” pay-per-view on Jan. 25.

According to PWInsider.com, Orton was backstage at the show and dressed to compete.

WWE ultimately decided to keep him off the show for “storyline purposes.” It’s not known whether he was originally slated to be a participant in the 30-man Battle Royal, or just to interfere in the WWE World Heavyweight Championship match.

Bo Dallas and Heath Slater were also backstage, but neither man was used.

Orton is still expected to have a headlining match at WrestleMania 31, presumably against Seth Rollins.

He’s been out of action since the Nov. 3 edition of “Monday Night Raw” after being taken out by The Authority.

Editor’s Note

Perhaps an appearance by Orton would have helped calm the rowdy Philadelphia crowd. Probably not, though. He’ll be back soon. 

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