The latest episode of Monday Night Raw leading up to Survivor Series 2023 unfolded with an unexpected twist, setting the WWE Universe ablaze with speculation. The recent heel turn of Drew McIntyre and his alliance with The Judgment Day led to a reshuffling of the WarGames match, transforming it into a five-on-five showdown. The question looming over Cody Rhodes’ team was: Who would fill the crucial fifth spot? The answer may lie in a cryptic hint dropped by Rhodes himself, suggesting the return of a familiar face – Randy Orton.
The Unexpected Heel Turn: McIntyre’s Alliance with The Judgment Day
For months, fans have eagerly awaited Orton’s return to the WWE, especially since he was last seen at the performance center. The anticipation reached a fever pitch as Rhodes, during a backstage segment, hinted at a potential reunion with an “old friend” to bolster the team. The mention of the phrase “old friend” immediately triggered excitement among fans, who recall the historical connection between Rhodes and Orton as part of Legacy.
The Nostalgia of Legacy: A Historical Connection Revisited
The speculation intensified as Rhodes remarked, “I have an old friend I could call.” This enigmatic statement set social media ablaze, with fans connecting the dots between the term “friend” and the longstanding association between Rhodes and Orton. The audible pop from the audience at the mention of an old friend underscored the electric atmosphere, with fans sensing the possibility of Orton’s return.
“I have an old friend I could call, who I think could come through for us” – Cody Rhodes….
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I hear voices in my head…#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/ECcNbhwDkN
— ES Wrestling (@ESwrestling) November 21, 2023
Legacy Revisited: A Storied History Between Rhodes and Orton
The history between Rhodes and Orton dates back to their time as members of Legacy, a faction that left an indelible mark on WWE. If anyone could be the “old friend” Rhodes would call upon, it seemed fitting that it could be The Viper himself.
The Viper’s Absence: Orton’s Injury and Extended Hiatus
Randy Orton has been absent from WWE action since May 2022, following a tag team match on SmackDown for the unification of tag titles. Paired with Matt Riddle against The Usos, Orton faced a setback after a loss in the match, succumbing to a serious back injury that sidelined him for an extended period.
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Strategic Dynamics: Orton’s Potential Role in WarGames
As the anticipation builds for a potential Orton comeback, the question arises: How could The Viper balance out the dynamics of the WarGames match? While McIntyre has made it clear that his focus is solely on Jey Uso, Orton’s return could inject a new dimension into the bout. Unlike McIntyre, Orton’s participation might be devoid of personal vendettas against Judgment Day, contributing a strategic and objective approach to the contest.
The WWE Universe’s Enthusiasm: Awaiting The Viper’s Return
If Orton indeed steps into the WarGames match, it would mark his return to the WWE ring after a hiatus of 18 months. The prospect of The Viper’s involvement has ignited a wave of enthusiasm among fans, eager to witness the unfolding drama in the squared circle.
The Burning Question: Who is Cody Rhodes’ “Old Friend”?
The burning question remains: Who could Cody Rhodes be referring to as his “old friend”? As the WWE Universe engages in speculation, the potential return of Randy Orton adds a layer of excitement to an already intriguing Survivor Series buildup.
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This comprehensive exploration unravels the cryptic hints surrounding Randy Orton’s potential return, delving into the historical context, strategic implications, and the palpable excitement among fans as Survivor Series approaches. The enigma of Cody Rhodes’ “old friend” continues to captivate the WWE Universe, setting the stage for a potentially seismic moment in wrestling history.
