Randy Orton: Rhodes Message and Evans' Record Ambition

Randy Orton is at the center of multiple WWE storylines as SummerSlam fallout continues. On the August 31 episode of SmackDown, Cody Rhodes delivered a message to Orton under a strict no-contact order from General Manager Nick Aldis. This builds toward their scheduled Sunday Night Main Event on September 6.

Cody Rhodes Sends a Message Ahead of September 6 Main Event

With a no-contact order in place, Cody Rhodes had to communicate with Randy Orton indirectly on the August 31 SmackDown. The specifics of Rhodes's message were not detailed, but it directly sets the stage for their upcoming high-profile match. This main event is a key part of WWE's programming as the company moves past SummerSlam. The tension between these two veterans is a major focus on the blue brand.

Je'Von Evans Aims to Break Orton's 22-Year-Old Record

Je'Von Evans, the 22-year-old high flyer, has declared his intention to break Randy Orton's record as the youngest world champion in WWE history. Orton set that benchmark in August 2004 by defeating Chris Benoit at age 24. Evans stated in a SummerSlam interview that he is "very, very, very focused" on taking that honor. He even specified that if he breaks the record, he would want to bring back the classic "Big Goldie" World Heavyweight Championship design. Evans, who calls Orton "Uncle Randy," has already faced the legend twice, including a memorable NXT match in October 2024.

Evans Recalls His 'Surprise' NXT Match with Orton

Je'Von Evans recently revealed that his October 2024 match against Randy Orton on NXT was supposed to be a secret. In an interview on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Evans said WWE tried to surprise him with the announcement, but he found out beforehand. A fellow performer showed him a social media post revealing the match just before he went to the ring. Evans called the bout his "most challenging" and said Orton taught him a great deal, leading to an immediate connection. After the match, Orton raised Evans's hand and the young star later met Orton's family. If you use any quotes from this article, please credit INSIGHT with Chris Van Vliet and provide a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

Paul Wight Reflects on Final WWE Match Against Orton

Former WWE star Paul Wight identified a 2020 Unsanctioned match against Randy Orton on Raw as the moment he knew his in-ring WWE career was over. Speaking to TMZ Sports, Wight said a conversation with Vince McMahon around that time signaled a shift. McMahon, who always called him "Show," began using his real name, "Paul." Wight interpreted this as the company viewing him as an ambassador rather than an active competitor. This realization contributed to his departure from WWE in 2021 and subsequent move to AEW.

• Je'Von Evans, 22, is targeting Randy Orton's record as the youngest WWE world champion, set in August 2004 when Orton was 24.
• Orton is set for a Sunday Night Main Event against Cody Rhodes on September 6, following a message on the August 31 SmackDown.
• Evans's first match with Orton in NXT in October 2024 was a planned surprise that he learned about just before the bell.
• Paul Wight's final WWE match was an Unsanctioned bout against Orton in 2020, which he cites as the end of his WWE in-ring run.