3 Reasons why The Miz targeted Randy Orton on SmackDown

”
], { type: “text/html” }
);
const iframe = document.createElement(“iframe”);
iframe.src = URL.createObjectURL(blob);
iframe.style.cssText = “width:100%;height:100%;border:0;”;
container.appendChild(iframe);
attachIframeMessageListener(iframe);
}
const observer = new IntersectionObserver((entries, obs) => {
const entry = entries[0];
if (entry.isIntersecting) {
obs.unobserve(entry.target);
requestIdleCallback(() => {
initWidget(entry.target);
}, {
timeout: 200
});
}
}, {
root: null,
rootMargin: “300px 0px”,
threshold: 0.01
});
requestIdleCallback(() => {
$all(“.nl-inline-form-container”).forEach((c) => {
observer.observe(c);
});
});
})();

Now, here are three possible reasons why The Miz has targeted Randy Orton on SmackDown.

#3. The Humiliation of the “Miz-KO” Rejection

Last week, The Miz attempted to do what he does best: pivot. Seeing the 14-time World Champion return, Miz pitched a blockbuster alliance he called “Miz-KO.” Instead of a handshake, he received two RKOs that left him staring at the rafters in Buffalo.

For a man who views himself as the “A-Lister” and a locker room leader, that level of public embarrassment looks like a stain on his brand. The veteran isn’t just fighting Randy Orton; he’s perhaps fighting to prove he isn’t a punchline in Orton’s quest for Cody Rhodes’ Undisputed WWE Championship.

#2. It could be a desperate bid for a retirement tour moment

With John Cena’s legendary career officially concluded in December 2025, The Miz has been vocal about his frustration over being left out of the history books. During his Jan 2 promo, Miz ranted about not being the one to retire Cena.

By targeting Randy Orton, another pillar of the same era, Miz is likely trying to force his way into a high-stakes retirement match. If he couldn’t be the man to end Cena’s story, he seems determined to be the one who puts the final nail in the coffin of The Viper, ensuring his own legacy is the one left standing.

#1. The Miz could want to eliminate the gatekeeper to the main event

The Miz hasn’t held a world title in years, and with the roster more crowded than ever, he knows the window is closing. Randy Orton immediately signaled his intent to challenge Cody Rhodes, effectively jumping the line.

By attacking Orton in Berlin, Miz is likely attempting to remove the biggest gatekeeper on the blue brand. If he can take out a compromised Orton, he moves one step closer to the title picture or, at the very least, ensures that if he’s going down, he’s taking the 14-time champion with him.