Has Randy Orton indirectly hinted heel turn against Cody Rhodes for his WWE title?

With John Cena aiming to win his 17th title before retiring, Cody Rhodes is preparing to defend his WWE Universal Championship, and all of the storylines are beginning to heat up as WWE's greatest PLE WrestleMania draws nearer.  In contrast, 14-time champion Randy Orton and Kevin Owens are presently engaged in a violent altercation in which Orton wants to punt kick Owens in the head.

Despite his age, Randy Orton is strong and is one of the most remarkable WWE superstars. Currently, he is in his prime and can perform for another decade. Before WrestleMania 41 starts, Randy Orton has some plans which are against Cody Rhodes. During the recent SmackDown show, Randy Orton warned Cody Rhodes about his title.

Orton, who isn't usually known for displaying emotion, spoke honestly with Rhodes, expressing his "love and respect" for him and his complete admiration for what Rhodes has achieved since rejoining WWE. Orton stated that a big matchup is imminent even though he thinks Rhodes will successfully defend his championship at WrestleMania. Randy Orton also asserted that Cody Rhodes will defeat John Cena.

Later, Randy Orton also remarked on his real goals for the post-WrestleMania era. Randy Orton informed Cody Rhodes that he would look him in the eye when he decided to pursue his 15th championship. “Just like John Cena is going after number 17, there’s gonna come a time when I’m gonna want to go after number 15,” Randy Orton challenged Cody Rhodes after WrestleMania.

Watch the video here:

“There’s gonna be a time where I’m gonna go for number 15, but I’m not gonna kick you in the balls, I’m gonna look you in the eye and tell you I’m coming for this.” - Randy Orton

RANDY ORTON IS COMING FOR THE 15TH CHAMPIONSHIP 🤯🔥#SmackDown

pic.twitter.com/dnlm2WXeqs

— EliteRockerz 𝕏 (@EliteClubS0B) March 28, 2025

Randy Orton to finish the story with Kevin Owens

Randy Orton and former WWE Champion Kevin Owens are presently involved in a bitter battle. The feud began after Kevin Owens gave Orton a piledriver, rendering "The Viper" temporarily incapacitated.  At the Elimination Chamber, Randy Orton returned and attacked Owens.  At WrestleMania, Randy Orton is aiming to get even with Kevin Owens by punting him to exact revenge.