After a year away from the company, WWE legend Randy Orton made his triumphant return to the company last year. The company has used the 45-year-old on a part-time basis to prolong his career as much as possible. But “The Viper” competing at WrestleMania 41 was always a part of the plan. However, that is no longer a guarantee.
On last week’s Smackdown, scheduled opponent Kevin Owens revealed a serious neck injury that will force him out of their planned match. It has put Orton’s WrestleMania plans in limbo. However, with few ‘Manias left on Orton’s bump card, it is likely WWE will try and find a way to get him on the show. Likely against a mystery opponent.
With that in mind, we look at five men that could jump into face Randy Orton at WrestleMania 41.
Trick Williams
There have been rumblings for months that Trick Williams is penciled in to finally make the jump to the main roster after WrestleMania 41. He seems to be in the midst of his NXT swan song which should come to a conclusion at NXT Stand and Deliver on Apr. 19. It might be a perfect way for him to make his debut on the main roster by facing Orton on Night 2 of ‘Mania (Apr. 20). Making an immediate impact by taking on the challenge of a WWE icon.
Damian Priest
Damian Priest is penciled in to take on Drew McIntyre at this month’s event. However, there are rumblings that McIntyre’s eye injury could be serious enough to force him off the card. With Priest on Smackdown, putting together a match to get both on the show would be easy to book.
Aleister/Malakai Black
Rumors have swirled for weeks that following his AEW departure, Malakai Black (AKA Aleister Black) will be back in WWE soon. Reports have pointed to a debut after WrestleMania 41. But why not have him return in grand fashion at the massive event? And score a shocking win over the WWE legend? If Black returns as a heel, a clash makes sense and could set up a long-term feud.
Solo Sikoa
Surprisingly, Solo Sikoa does not have a match at WrestleMania 41. Instead, he will be watching as Jacob Fatu looks to become the Intercontinental Champion. This would be a perfect opportunity to get the former tribal chief on the card. And it could be used to further the growing feud between him and Fatu by the pair interfering in each other’s matches.
Miro/Rusev
Malakai Black isn’t the only former WWE star expected to return after a run in AEW. Miro — AKA Rusev — has reportedly signed a new contract and will be back on television in the near future. Serving as Orton’s mystery opponent makes sense. And it would be a great way to bring the former United States Champion back in a big way.
