-- Former WWE multi-time champion Randy Orton has been out of action since shortly after last year's WrestleMania, having last wrestled in May 2022 before a serious lower back injury has since sidelined him and threatened his career. Fightfulselect.com is reporting that the sure-fire future Hall of Famer remains out without a return date in mind and as of this past week, has not been factored into any creative plans whatsoever.
-- Orton is reportedly not even cleared for in-ring training or action and according to sources, there has not been much in the way of meaningful dialogue discussing any plans for his return however, Orton himself fully plans to resume his career at some point even though doctors have apparently advised him that it isn't a good idea since he underwent lower back fusion surgery that is not a typical surgery for wrestlers. For what it's worth, Orton has resumed lifting weights and is said to be "huge" as a result but is waiting for official clearance to resume any in-ring training. When he is cleared to start bumping, it is almost a lock that he would be brought into the WWE's Performance Center to gear up for a return to the ring.
-- When asked if there is any chance that Orton could return at SummerSlam this weekend, a WWE source noted to fightfulselect not to count on it as there is nothing creatively on the table for him so suffice to say if Orton is planning an imminent return, his return is being kept quiet in order to no doubt make it a surprise.
