Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton continued their heated rivalry on the August 21 episode of WWE SmackDown, with “The American Nightmare” ending their confrontation by delivering a confident message ahead of their upcoming match.
The tension began backstage when Sami Zayn was speaking with SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis. Zayn was frustrated about not receiving another opportunity at the WWE Championship when Orton appeared behind him. Shortly afterward, Cody’s voice came from the ring as he called out “The Viper.”
Aldis quickly intervened, reminding both men about the chaos that unfolded during their confrontation the previous week. He warned Rhodes and Orton that if either man touched the other before their scheduled match, they would lose their opportunity to challenge for the WWE Championship.
Orton agreed to the terms, saying he would not jeopardize his chance to become a 15-time world champion. He then turned his attention toward Rhodes and brought up the chair incident from the previous week.
Orton claimed Rhodes had been ready to hit him with a chair but stopped because he knew he could not live with himself afterward. “The Viper” contrasted that with his own actions, admitting he had no remorse when he attacked Rhodes with a chair earlier this year.
Orton also questioned whether Rhodes could truly become ruthless enough to defeat him, repeatedly calling him a “good guy” and even referring to him as the “American Daydream.”
Rhodes responded by telling Orton that he was operating under a dangerous assumption. He explained that he had learned from his friends, heroes and enemies throughout his career, including Orton.
“The American Nightmare” then delivered his strongest message of the night, making it clear that he believes he will be the one to end Orton’s legendary legacy.
“Randy Orton may win many world titles, title number 17, and break records. But Randy, the one who will kill the Legend Killer will be me. And that’s not a prediction, it’s a spoiler.”
Rhodes’ choice of the word “spoiler” made the statement even more significant. Rather than presenting his claim as a possibility, he spoke as though Orton’s eventual downfall at his hands was already decided.
Their showdown is now set for September 6 at Sunday Night’s Main Event from Atlanta, Georgia at State Farm Arena. It will be interesting to see if Cody Rhodes can fulfill his promise and beat Randy Orton.
