Randy Orton opened the March 7 edition of SmackDown at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, receiving a warm welcome from the fans in attendance. As WrestleMania draws closer, Orton addressed his return to WWE and his ongoing situation with Kevin Owens.
After acknowledging the positive crowd reaction, Orton began his promo by discussing recent events since his return at the 2025 Elimination Chamber, where he interfered in Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn’s match.
During his address, Orton mentioned John Cena, which prompted boos from the Philadelphia crowd. Orton then made a controversial remark about Cena’s relationship with The Rock.
.@RandyOrton had some interesting things to say about @JohnCena and @TheRock 😳 #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/ijQJTNb9Uh
— WWE (@WWE) March 8, 2025
Orton shifted his focus to Kevin Owens, stating that while he respects Owens’ journey to WWE, he cannot tolerate who Owens is as a person. Orton elaborated on Owens’ jealousy, particularly regarding how Owens’ rivalry with Sami Zayn developed due to Owens becoming jealous of Zayn’s popularity with fans.
Questioning Owens’ motivations, Orton pointed out that Owens has accomplished significant career milestones, including main eventing WrestleMania twice and holding numerous major championships throughout his WWE tenure.
Orton concluded his promo by expressing his desire to deliver his infamous punt kick to Owens at Elimination Chamber.