Randy Orton Qualifies for Money in the Bank After Fan-Backed

Randy Orton is officially back in the hunt for a world championship opportunity. The Viper secured his spot in the 2026 Money in the Bank ladder match by winning a high-stakes Triple Threat qualifier on the September 18 episode of SmackDown.

Orton punched his ticket in Corpus Christi, Texas, by defeating two formidable champions. He outlasted United States Champion Trick Williams and AAA Cruiserweight Champion Rey Fenix in a match that delivered three distinct styles. The victory adds Orton to a field that already includes Bron Breakker and Je'Von Evans. His former rival, Alexa Bliss, also competed in a separate women's qualifier on the same night, though she faced Jade Cargill and Jacy Jayne. For Orton, the path is now clear: win the Money in the Bank contract and he can challenge for the Undisputed WWE Championship at any moment.

A high-profile match featuring Orton was reportedly in the works for WrestleMania 42 but never materialized. Former WWE star Malakai Black revealed there was a pitch for him to face Orton on the grand stage. Black, known in WWE as Aleister Black, discussed this on the 'ZELVX and CHARLIE GIRL' podcast. He explained that he had even prepared a special entrance with a smoke device for the proposed bout. That planned match was ultimately shelved. Black interacted with Orton earlier in 2026 but was released from his WWE contract in April. He now holds the Progress Men's World Championship on the independent circuit.

Orton's current push towards the Money in the Bank briefcase appears connected to significant fan reaction. Reports indicate that WWE's previous creative direction for the veteran star sparked a noticeable revolt from the audience. This fan response was reportedly strong enough that company management had to reconsider their plans. The shift in booking led directly to Orton's high-profile victory over Cody Rhodes and now his qualification for a major ladder match. It shows his enduring connection with the WWE Universe, a force that still influences weekly television.

• KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Randy Orton defeated Trick Williams and Rey Fenix to qualify for the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Match on September 18.
• A pitched match between Orton and Malakai Black for WrestleMania 42 was ultimately scrapped.
• Orton's renewed prominence on SmackDown followed reported fan dissatisfaction with his prior booking.