Randy Orton wrestled for the first time at a WWE house show since May 2022, and his performance did not disappoint.

After slithering down the aisle Tuesday night (Dec. 26) to rescue AJ Styles from a two-on-one beatdown at the hands of Grayson Waller and Austin Theory, The Viper challenged the cocky duo to a tag team match. Once the bell rang, Orton was on fire, playing his greatest hits to the delight of Baltimore fans packed into the CFG Bank Arena.

But after Waller gained control of the match heading into the finish, he attempted a rolling thunder stunner, only to get caught in mid-air by Orton, who delivered a highlight reel-worthy RKO for the win that drew a big pop from the crowd.

Afterward, Orton had a brief staredown with Styles, who he’ll face in a triple threat match along with LA Knight on Jan. 5 at the “New Year’s Revolution” episode of SmackDown. The winner there will face Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

Based on the quality of Orton’s work since returning at the Survivor Series, and considering the star power of Knight and the overall in-ring excellence of AJ Styles, the three-way dance to kick off the blue brand’s 2024 season could be one for the ages. Hopefully, viewers tuning in will witness another memorable RKO by the legendary Legend Killer.