Randy Orton has not held a world championship since 2020, but he has spent 2026 back in the title picture. With 14 recognized world title reigns and a major match at Crown Jewel, a 15th is not out of reach. Here is the case for and against.
The 2026 Run
Orton won the 2026 Men’s Elimination Chamber match, which earned him a title shot at Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 42. He lost that match on April 18, but he has since beaten Rhodes at Sunday Night’s Main Event. Reports describe an Orton who is darker and more calculating, and who has questioned Rhodes’ killer instinct throughout their rivalry.
The Crown Jewel Match
The feud will end, at least for now, in a Last Man Standing match at Crown Jewel on November 7. Rhodes chose the stipulation, and Orton accepted it. A Last Man Standing match has no pinfalls, and Orton has history with it: he won one against Triple H at No Mercy in 2007. Crown Jewel is still listed for Riyadh, although reports note that turmoil in the region could affect plans.
Why It Could Happen
A win over Rhodes would put Orton back in the contender conversation, and one outlet points out that a 15th world title would move him ahead of Triple H. Our look at Reigns vs. Rhodes shows how crowded the top is, but WWE has repeatedly used Orton as a credible threat.
Why It May Not
Sami Zayn holds the Undisputed WWE Championship, Roman Reigns holds the World Heavyweight Championship, and younger stars such as Oba Femi are pushing for title shots. At 46, Orton may be better suited to making champions than becoming one. One writer argues that he no longer needs another title, but that he is still valuable as a threat to whoever holds it.
The Verdict
Another championship is possible but not guaranteed, and it depends on the result in Riyadh and on what WWE does next. For now, Orton’s best path is to win and force the issue.
Sources: Sportskeeda, F4W Online, Stadium Rant, Bleacher Report.