Seeds Planted for Randy Orton Heel Turn After Loss to Cody Rhodes at WWE Night of Champions

Cody Rhodes may have been crowned King of the Ring at WWE Night of Champions, but it was Randy Orton’s reaction that stole the spotlight.

During Wrestling Observer Radio, Bryan Alvarez detailed how Orton’s attempt to expose the turnbuckle backfired, leading to Rhodes hitting the Cross Rhodes for the win. After the match, while Rhodes praised Orton as a “future Hall of Famer,” Orton was seen sneering and visibly upset as he walked up the aisle.

Dave Meltzer believes WWE subtly planted the seeds for Orton’s heel turn, suggesting Orton could eventually cost Rhodes the Undisputed Universal Title against John Cena. Meltzer praised the storytelling, calling it “very well done” and not overly forced, adding intrigue to Orton’s next move.

Source: Wrestling Observer Radio