# WWE Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton rivalry

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/20261102-wwe-cody-rhodes-and-randy-orton-rivalry
> Updated: 2026-11-07T00:40:24.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 3.

On the October 23 episode of WWE SmackDown, a Last Man Standing match was officially booked between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton for the upcoming Crown Jewel event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This match follows a series of victories exchanged between the two competitors earlier in 2026.

Leading up to the event, analysts noted potential challenges regarding audience reception. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio suggested that Orton’s status as a respected legend might make it difficult for crowds to react negatively to him, even though he is positioned as a heel for this specific storyline. This popularity could potentially complicate the intended narrative where Rhodes is the primary babyface.

In a recent interview on WWE Countdown, Randy Orton stated his intent to win his 15th world championship by securing the Undisputed WWE Championship at Crown Jewel. Orton, who has not held a top title since October 2020, claimed he is finished playing games. He characterized his relationship with Rhodes as a mentor to a younger brother figure, while suggesting that Rhodes lacks the capacity to become a villain. To ensure victory, Orton vowed to increase the intensity of his physical attacks, specifically mentioning his signature punt kick.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-07: Randy Orton targets 15th world championship at WWE Crown Jewel

Randy Orton aims to capture his 15th world championship by defeating Cody Rhodes in a Last Man Standing Match at WWE Crown Jewel.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/randy-orton-targets-15th-world-championship-at-wwe-crown-jewel

### 2026-11-02: Randy Orton faces crowd reaction challenges ahead of Crown Jewel

Randy Orton's role as a heel against Cody Rhodes at WWE Crown Jewel faces challenges due to his enduring popularity with global audiences.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/randy-orton-faces-crowd-reaction-challenges-ahead-of-crown-jewel

### 2026-10-23: WWE announces Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton Last Man Standing match

WWE has set a Last Man Standing match between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton for Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia. Other results include new Women’s Tag Team Champions and a scheduled CM Punk vs. Kevin Owens clash.

18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cody-rhodes-and-randy-orton-to-face-off-in-last-man-standing-match-at-crown-jewel

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Cite as: WWE Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton rivalry. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/20261102-wwe-cody-rhodes-and-randy-orton-rivalry