Randy Orton Sidelined Indefinitely After Kevin Owens’ Brutal SmackDown Attack

One Big Thing

WWE has announced Randy Orton is out indefinitely with cervical cord neurapraxia following a vicious piledriver from Kevin Owens on SmackDown’s November 8 episode.

Why It Matters

This injury angle likely sets up a major storyline heading into WWE Survivor Series, potentially rekindling the Owens-Cody Rhodes rivalry with higher stakes and more personal animosity.

By The Numbers

• This marks Orton’s first storyline injury since his return in November
• Owens and Rhodes last fought at Bash in Berlin, ending in a respectful embrace
• Rhodes hasn’t defended his title since defeating Solo Sikoa in September

Key Details

The Attack

• Owens delivered a devastating piledriver to Orton on the mat
• Medical personnel stretchered Orton out of the arena
• Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes accompanied his injured friend

Backstory

• Tension originated from Owens’ issues with Rhodes working alongside Roman Reigns
• Rhodes recently became the inaugural men’s Crown Jewel Champion
• The attack eliminates Rhodes’ only apparent ally on SmackDown

What’s Next

The storyline appears to be building toward a championship confrontation at Survivor Series, with the formerly friendly relationship between Owens and Rhodes now destroyed by KO’s actions against Orton.

Bottom Line

This injury angle effectively transforms what was once a respectful rivalry into a deeply personal vendetta, potentially leading to one of WWE’s most emotionally charged matches at Survivor Series.

What do you think about Kevin Owens‘ heel turn and attack on Randy Orton? Will this lead to an epic showdown with Cody Rhodes at Survivor Series? Share your thoughts in the comments below!