Who might Randy Orton attack next on WWE SmackDown tonight?
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The Viper has been on a rampage since turning heel.
‘The Viper’ Randy Orton has been on a brutal rampage since turning heel on the Friday 13 episode of SmackDown. Orton turned on his friend and brother, Cody Rhodes, whom he is set to face for the Undisputed title at WrestleMania.
After signing a contract for the match, Orton unleashed a vicious beatdown, leaving Rhodes in a pool of his own blood. The beatdown made it clear that the Vintage Orton that everyone feared was back, looking to claim his 15th WWE World title.
Matt Cardona was the target last week
The same tenacity and absolute malice were on full display on last week’s SmackDown, when Orton attacked Matt Cardona during a backstage argument. Orton then appeared to apologise to Cardona, calling him out to the ring.
However, what followed was another heinous beatdown, targeting Cardona’s left arm as security and officials tried to intervene and save Cardona.
Also Read: WWE SmackDown (March 27, 2026): Preview, match card, news, timings & telecast details
Who could be the target in Pittsburgh?
While no one is safe from Orton’s wrath in the locker room, the ones trying to reason with Orton are especially vulnerable, something Cardona found out the hard way. Apollo Crews, who was with Cardona just before the attack backstage, might try to confront Orton, which will turn out exactly as last week.
Another possible target could be General Manager Nick Aldis himself. Orton has already gone after Aldis several times to vent his frustrations, and if Aldis tries to step in or suspend him, he could face not just an RKO but even more consequences.
Cody Rhodes is also advertised for the show, leading to speculations of his return. If he does come back and attempts to make amends with Orton instead of seeking revenge, fans could be in for yet another shocking twist, or even an RKO out of nowhere.
What time does WWE SmackDown start this week?
This week’s WWE SmackDown begins at 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT / 5 PM PT in the United States on Friday night. International viewers can tune in at 1 AM GMT (UK & Ireland), 5:30 AM IST (India), 10 AM AEST (Australia), and 2 AM CET (Germany/France) on Saturday, depending on their region.
Where can fans watch WWE SmackDown live?
In the United States, SmackDown airs on the USA Network. Most international audiences can stream the show on Netflix. At the same time, fans in India can watch on Sony LIV, Bangladesh on Sony Sports Network, China on iQIYI, and Nigeria and South Africa on SuperSport & Showmax.
Where and when does WWE SmackDown take place on March 27, 2026?
The March 27 episode of Friday Night SmackDown takes place at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The show begins at 8 PM ET on the USA Network in the United States, and is available on Netflix for international viewers, with a local time of 7:30 PM local time.
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Abhijit Singh is a budding sports journalist with over three years of experience in the field, and a photographer capturing stories through his lens since 2018. With a background in philosophy and political science, he brings a thoughtful, analytical edge to his reporting where every word is guided by curiosity and intent. Whether he's capturing the emotion of a moment or unpacking the deeper narratives within the game, Abhijit’s work is rooted in insight and passion. When he’s not covering sports, he’s often exploring new ideas through reading, traveling or just procrastinating.