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Randy Orton Reacts to GSP's RKO Imitation Ahead of SmackDown

2026-09-12 · Randy Orton · Player Focus

Randy Orton has responded to UFC legend Georges St-Pierre's attempt to master his iconic finishing move, the RKO. The wrestling veteran called it a form of flattery on social media, just hours before his scheduled appearance on the September 11 edition of WWE SmackDown.

Georges St-Pierre posted a video of himself hitting multiple RKOs on September 10. The clip quickly spread online, catching the attention of the move's originator. Randy Orton saw the video and shared his thoughts on September 11.

He posted a response on X, formerly known as Twitter. Orton wrote, "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery #GSPouttanowhere." This social media exchange highlights the enduring popularity of the RKO, a move famous for being hit "out of nowhere." Orton's reaction was positive and playful, acknowledging the crossover appeal between wrestling and mixed martial arts.

The first ever Sunday Night's Main Event was held at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The show was headlined by a WrestleMania 42 rematch between Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes. This premium live event served as a major shows for WWE's current storylines.

A significant portion of the night focused on the emerging rivalry between Oba Femi and Bron Breakker. Both are former NXT Champions positioned as future leaders of the company. Their scheduled match was meant to determine who would spearhead WWE's next generation.

Femi has been on a dominant run since joining the main roster. He brutalized Cody Rhodes during John Cena's farewell tour, won the King of the Ring tournament, and retired Brock Lesnar for a second time at SummerSlam. After that victory, Femi declared his intention to lead a new crop of talent.

Breakker, fueled by ego and jealousy, challenged this claim. This set the stage for a heavyweight bout at Sunday Night's Main Event. The match was described as brutal and entertaining, but it did not reach a clear conclusion.

The highly anticipated singles match between Oba Femi and Bron Breakker was interrupted. Just as Femi gained the upper hand, Bronson Reed made a stunning return to WWE television. Reed, who is Breakker's fellow member of the Vision faction, interfered in the match.

His return spoiled the planned finish, leaving the WWE Universe waiting to see who the rightful heir to WWE's future will be. This surprise comeback adds a new layer to the ongoing power struggle between Femi and the Vision group. It shifts the dynamic from a one on one conflict to a potential faction war.

  • Randy Orton praised UFC Hall of Famer Georges St-Pierre for mimicking his RKO finisher on September 11.
  • Orton headlined Sunday Night's Main Event in Atlanta on September 10 in a WrestleMania 42 rematch against Cody Rhodes.
  • The show featured a clash between future stars Oba Femi and Bron Breakker, which was interrupted by Bronson Reed's return.
  • Orton is scheduled to appear on the September 11 edition of WWE SmackDown.

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