Randy Orton is locked in and showing up live. WWE has confirmed that The Viper will appear on the May 2 episode of WWE SmackDown, just two days before his massive title clash against John Cena at WWE Backlash.
Orton is scheduled to challenge Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship in what’s being billed as the final chapter of their decades-long rivalry. Last week, the two came face-to-face in a tense confrontation that nearly erupted, setting the tone for what’s expected to be a violent showdown.
“The final chapter in the storied rivalry between Randy Orton and Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena reached a fever pitch last week when the two Superstars came face-to-face in a volatile encounter,” WWE wrote while promoting Orton’s live appearance on this Friday’s episode.
The May 2 edition of SmackDown will air at 8 p.m. ET/7 CT on USA Network and will also feature Aleister Black taking on The Miz. But all eyes are on Orton, who’s been on a warpath since returning to WWE. With Backlash just days away, fans are expecting one last message—or maybe even a fight—before he steps into the ring with Cena for the gold.
As a reminder, Ringside News will have live play-by-play coverage of the event. Stay tuned with us for any late breaking, news rumors or spoilers regarding the show.
Will Randy Orton make one final statement before Backlash? And can he finally take the Undisputed Title off John Cena? Sound off in the comments with your thoughts.
