Randy Orton’s Shocking RKO on Nick Aldis Was An Unplanned Moment

One Big Thing

SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis revealed that Randy Orton’s RKO on him during a Brooklyn show was completely improvised, contrary to the original segment plans.

The Details

• The incident occurred during a contract signing segment where Orton was meant to simply sign with SmackDown
• Aldis disclosed this information during his appearance on “Insight with Chris Van Vliet”
• The original plan called for just a staredown between Orton and Roman Reigns
• The decision to execute the RKO was made during the live segment

Direct Quote

“It was called on the fly. It was totally an audible,” Aldis revealed. “Then someone told someone [about the RKO].”

Why It Matters

• This revelation showcases WWE’s willingness to make real-time creative decisions
• It demonstrates the trust between performers and management to execute unplanned spots
• The moment created a memorable talking point for fans and potentially planted seeds for future storylines
• It follows a pattern of authority figures becoming physical targets, as RAW GM Adam Pearce also recently received an RKO

The Bigger Picture

Triple H, WWE’s Chief Content Officer, is known for strategically placing story elements that could be revisited later. As Aldis noted: “Hunter likes playing with things like that. Laying breadcrumbs or planting a seed.”

Looking Ahead

While Aldis currently serves as SmackDown’s General Manager, he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of stepping into the ring as a competitor. For now, he continues to oversee the blue brand on a week-to-week basis.

What do you think about impromptu moments like this in wrestling? Do they add to the excitement of live TV? Share your thoughts in the comments below!