Randy Orton’s return to WWE in 2024 was nothing short of electrifying. After being sidelined for nearly two years due to a severe back injury, “The Viper” made his triumphant comeback at Survivor Series: WarGames 2023. Since then, he has been on an absolute tear, delivering some of the most jaw-dropping RKOs of his career. WWE’s Top 10 list from August 18, 2024, highlighted the most incredible RKOs Orton has executed since his return, and fans have been raving about the devastating impact of his signature move.
At number ten, we saw Orton counter a Moonsault from Ricochet on an episode of Monday Night Raw. As Ricochet soared through the air, Orton timed his move to perfection, snatching Ricochet mid-flight and driving him into the mat with a thunderous RKO. The execution was flawless, leaving the WWE Universe in shock.
Number nine featured a surprise RKO on Logan Paul at SummerSlam 2024. As Paul attempted his signature “Maverick Splash” from the top rope, Orton leaped with impeccable timing, catching the social media star in mid-air for an emphatic RKO that secured the victory. This moment went viral instantly, showcasing Orton’s ability to strike out of nowhere.
Coming in at number eight, Orton delivered an RKO to Jey Uso on the steel entrance ramp. As Jey went for a Samoan Splash off the barricade, Orton sidestepped and caught him with a vicious RKO on the unforgiving steel. The impact was brutal, and the WWE Universe erupted in awe.
Number seven was another incredible display of Orton’s instincts, as he intercepted Carmelo Hayes’ springboard attempt. Just as Hayes leaped from the ropes for a high-risk move, Orton caught him with a picture-perfect RKO mid-air, leaving Hayes motionless in the ring.
Number six featured a tag team match where Orton and Cody Rhodes faced off against The Judgment Day. As Damian Priest went for his South of Heaven chokeslam, Orton reversed it into a stunning RKO, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
At number five, Orton hit an RKO on Solo Sikoa through the announce table. During a chaotic SmackDown brawl, Orton countered Solo’s Samoan Spike with a devastating RKO, sending both men crashing through the desk.
Number four showcased an RKO on Finn Bálor off a ladder during a Money in the Bank qualifying match. As Bálor attempted to retrieve the briefcase, Orton yanked him off and delivered a mid-air RKO that had the entire arena on its feet.
The top three featured some of the most memorable RKOs in years. At number three, Orton caught AJ Styles mid-Phenomenal Forearm, a classic counter that never gets old. Number two saw him deliver a jaw-dropping RKO to Seth Rollins after reversing a Curb Stomp, reminiscent of their WrestleMania 31 clash.
Finally, the number one spot went to Orton’s shocking RKO on Roman Reigns at SummerSlam 2024. Just when Reigns seemed invincible, Orton countered a Superman Punch into a legendary RKO, shaking the WWE landscape.
Randy Orton’s return has reminded fans why he is one of the greatest of all time, and this Top 10 list proves that the RKO truly comes out of nowhere.
