Randy Orton SummerSlam
Source: Shawn Shashidharan, Twitter, Screenshot

Randy Orton stopped appearing on TV and that could affect the plans for the WWE SummerSlam. Also, Samoa Joe was just cleared to wrestle again, but he is open to continue working at the announce table.

Randy Orton – SummerSlam

Randy Orton spent all of 2020 and part of 2021 as one of WWE’s top heels. Then, he entered into a program with Matt Riddle and seemingly turned face.

Somehow, the two have found a way to co-exist. And, it is even stranger the angle is still going as Orton was last seen on June 21.

There is no word on why Orton has been missing from TV for the past six weeks. WWE has not made any announcement as Riddle continues to talk about his bro.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted the idea was for Riddle & Orton to challenge AJ Styles & Omos. That would happen at SummerSlam for the RAW Tag Team Championships.

As of now, that match has not been confirmed for the card. And, there is no word if that is still the direction WWE is headed.

With Riddle mentioning Orton’s name weekly, it does seem to hint that they are not done. Orton could return before the show or Riddle could take on both at the pay per view, with Orton making a surprise appearance to secure the win or once again turning heel.

Samoa Joe Wants Back On Commentary

Source: CONNER, Twitter, Screenshot

Samoa Joe’s main roster run was anything but smooth. He did manage to stay towards the top and even earned a few major title shots along the way.

Although, Joe did suffer several injuries which caused his push to randomly stop. While filming a project outside of WWE, Joe suffered a concussion over a year ago.

While recovering, WWE added him to the RAW announce team and it was a great fit. Then, he was released about a week after WrestleMania 37.

Quickly, WWE realized their mistake and he was rehired as part of the NXT brand. He served as an enforcer for General Manager William Regal, but frequently butted heads with Karrion Kross.

Now, the two will battle at Takeover 36 for the NXT Championship. It will mark Joe’s first match in about eighteen months.

Samoa Joe Wants To Be More than A WWE Wrestler

Depsite finally being cleared to return inside the ring, Joe wants another shot at the announce table. While speaking on WWE El Brunch, Joe went details about his current and future goals.

“Commentary is something I very much enjoyed and would be willing to go back to at some point,” said Joe. “Right now, some of my other responsibilities at WWE are helping find the new superstars that will be joining our roster and doing talent scouting around the world.” 

“I’m very much looking forward to that and very much looking forward to scouring this planet and finding the next great superstar. Wherever, they may be in the world.”

We will have to see what WWE has planned for Joe after Takeover 36. Like Finn Balor, his NXT return could last for a bit until he is needed again on the main roster.

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