Replacement Opponent For Batista at WrestleMania 35 Revealed

The Animal returning to WWE television during SmackDown 1000 was a great thing for him. The WWE Universe embraced Bautista in a positive light and it seemed that WWE officials were setting up another match between Triple H and Batista for WrestleMania 35. Unfortunately, that match is likely canceled after The Game’s injury at Crown Jewel.

Triple H suffered a torn rotator cuff that would keep him out of the ring for six to nine months. The likelihood of him being able to compete on the grandest stage of them all is really low. Unless The Game can make a miraculous recovery, the odds are that Bautista will not be competing at WrestleMania 35 either. However, HHH could still be replaced.

Related: Batista Being Inducted Into WWE Hall of Fame Next Year

According to a report from RingSideNews, Randy Orton could emerge as the opponent for Batista if he’s still interested in working a match. Triple H could play a factor as the special guest referee or in another role. Orton is a heel again and Batista working as a babyface seems like a better idea after the fans’ reception to him at SmackDown 1000.

The funny thing is Batista vs. Orton was completely rejected when WWE officials tried to do it at WrestleMania 30. Almost five years later, the match could be better received because it’s not for the WWE Championship or booked to be the main event. The contest would also be interesting to determine the better man from Evolution once and for all.

Follow Batista on his journey to SmackDown 1000: WWE Day Of

On paper, WWE officials could figure out another feud for The Animal. There’s plenty of time to set something up, but the entire situation hinges on Batista’s interest. He wanted the feud with Triple H to be one last hoorah. It’ll be up to him if something else works.

Would you be interested to see Bautista vs. Randy Orton at WrestleMania 35?