Latest update on Randy Orton’s status ahead of SummerSlam 2023

Randy Orton has been away from television, and never had a single wrestling match in the past 15 months. On the May 20, 2022 episode of WWE SmackDown, he wrestled for the Tag Team Unification Match, where he lost his Raw tag Team Championship to The Usos and eventually injured his back during the match.

It was announced later that Orton suffered a legitimate lower back fusion and will be out of action for an indefinite period. His father Bob Orton gave an update on his medical conditions in the past, his surgery in November turned out good, as he is recovering well, but doctors had advised him not to enter the wrestling ring. He also added that despite the doctor’s advice Orton is willing to return after clearing his medical conditions. Since then his return has been rumored around the wrestling industry. With SummerSlam in the corner, here is the latest update on his medical conditions and his status of possible return.

Also Read: Top five WWE superstars with most appearances at SummerSlam

Is he returning to SummerSlam 2023?

On August 1, Wrestling Journalist Sean Ross Sapp of Fightfull Select came out with a major update on Orton’s medical conditions and his return plans. He reported that Orton has “not been factored into WWE creative plans whatsoever” and he is still not cleared from his medical conditions to return to in-ring action. He also stated that Orton is still looking to return to the ring despite doctors advice, he hasn’t started his in-ring training yet and has just begun his gym sessions for weight lifting. 

On a question to Orton’s return rumors at SummerSlam, the inner source answered “not to count on it” as he is not factored into any creative plans. So, Orton will be missing yet another major event and will not be returning at SummerSlam at Detroit. But can expect his return later this year or earlier the next year.

If Orton is not making his return at SummerSlam, will it be at the 2024 Royal Rumble? If not Orton, then who do you think should return at SummerSlam in Detroit?

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