3 Consequences Randy Orton Could Face for Costing Cody Rhodes the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam 2026

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That said, in this article, we look at three possible consequences Randy Orton could face after costing Cody Rhodes the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam 2026.

#3 Randy Orton could be fined

Although Randy Orton’s return created one of the biggest moments of SummerSlam, his actions could be viewed unfavorably by WWE management.

The Apex Predator was not an officially announced participant in the Undisputed WWE Championship match. Yet he entered the contest during a referee bump and physically assaulted Cody Rhodes. His interference directly altered the outcome of one of WWE’s biggest matches of the year. That could give WWE officials a storyline reason to discipline him.

WWE officials have previously imposed financial penalties on superstars for unauthorized attacks and other rule violations. Even though Orton had been away for months, the company could still fine him to maintain consistency with its on-screen authority.

Also, such a decision would reinforce that no superstar, regardless of their legendary status, is above the rules. Although a fine would hardly affect someone of Orton’s stature, it would send a message that WWE management does not condone outside interference in championship bouts.

More importantly, it could add another layer to The Viper’s character. This could show that he simply doesn’t care about the consequences as long as he accomplishes his objectives.

#2 Orton could be suspended

If WWE wants to emphasize the severity of Randy Orton’s actions, a suspension could be the next logical step.

Unlike a simple fine, suspending The Viper would show how seriously WWE management views the attack that cost Cody Rhodes the Undisputed WWE Championship. Orton didn’t merely distract Rhodes. He completely changed the outcome of the biggest match on SummerSlam Night One.

Also, a storyline suspension would create anticipation for Randy Orton’s eventual return to television. WWE has often used this approach to build excitement around major stars. Thus, allowing tensions to rise before they are finally unleashed.

Of course, a suspension wouldn’t necessarily keep Orton away forever. The company could announce disciplinary action only for Cody Rhodes to demand that it be lifted because he wants revenge inside the ring rather than seeing his rival punished from afar.

That scenario would fit Rhodes’ character perfectly. Rather than accepting management’s decision, The American Nightmare would likely prefer settling the score himself. This could pave the way for one of WWE’s biggest rivalries heading into the fall.

#1 Cody Rhodes could demand a blockbuster match against Orton

Although disciplinary action is certainly possible, the biggest consequence of Randy Orton’s shocking return may be that he has reignited one of WWE’s most personal rivalries.

Since losing the title at Night of Champions, Cody Rhodes had one goal: reclaiming the Undisputed WWE Championship. Orton ensured that dream slipped away. He did so in dramatic fashion on one of WWE’s grandest stages. Thus, Rhodes is unlikely to let that betrayal go unanswered.

Instead of immediately pursuing another championship opportunity, The American Nightmare could shift his focus entirely toward The Viper. Their history as mentor and protege, combined with years of mutual respect, gives this rivalry emotional depth that few other feuds can match.

Unlike their WrestleMania 42 match, no title would be on the line. The story practically writes itself, with Cody seeking revenge against the man who robbed him of a major opportunity. Meanwhile, Orton could explain why he believed Rhodes deserved what happened at SummerSlam.

Also, the feud could keep both stars out of the Undisputed WWE Championship picture temporarily. This would allow CM Punk to defend the title against fresh challengers like Sami Zayn, Finn Balor, or Damian Priest without Cody immediately demanding a rematch.

For Triple H, this would be an ideal long-term booking strategy. WWE would simultaneously have a red-hot non-title rivalry and a refreshed championship scene, both stemming from Randy Orton’s unforgettable SummerSlam return.

In the end, that may prove to be the greatest consequence of all. Orton didn’t just cost Cody Rhodes the Undisputed WWE Championship. He reignited a rivalry that has the potential to become the defining feud of SmackDown for the rest of 2026.