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11 months ago
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Randy Orton shows off his impressive body transformation during his WWE return on Saturday night.
The 14-time world champion made his long-awaited comeback during the company's Survivor Series premium live event, joining forces with Cody Rhodes, Sami Zayn, Seth Rollins and Jey Uso to defeat The Judgement Day and Drew McIntyre in War Games.
It was the first time 'The Viper' had been in a wrestling ring for 18 months after undergoing back surgery for a long-running issue he had been dealing with.
His return was teased for a long time, with other members of his team suggesting in storyline that Orton hadn't turned up for the match, but he eventually made his way to the ring as the last person to enter the steel cage.
Fans were stunned to see the 43-year-old in arguably the best shape of his life, before Orton himself appeared to signal that he would be wrestling for another 10 years before exiting the arena.
Randy Orton has shown off his impressive body transformation following his return to WWE
Orton has always been in good shape in his career, but appeared better than ever in his return
He joined forces with Cody Rhodes, Sami Zayn, Seth Rollins and Jey Uso to defeat The Judgement Day
Orton will almost certainly be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in the future, having been a part of the company for over two decades.
There were fears he would have to retire when he was injured, with a return date unclear and worries he would not be able to hit his usual standards inside the ring should he return.
But he looked like he had never been away when he returned on Saturday, playing a key role - which included performing an RKO, his finishing move, to JD McDonagh as he fell from the top of the cage - as his star-studded side overcame their villainous opponents.
'Made his return to a huge pop, stayed after Survivor Series to greet fans, signalled that he has 10 years left, came back jacked. It's great to have Randy Orton back in WWE,' said one wrestling fan page on social media.
'Randy Orton looks like the size of two Randy Ortons now,' said another.
Randy Orton loves this sport, glad to see The Viper back and JACKED!' added a third.
Orton's involvement in the match included performing his signature RKO move as JD McDonagh fell from the top of the cage
Orton will be on Monday Night RAW following his return, alongside CM Punk, who also made his comeback at the event
Orton now looks set for another full time run in WWE after his return from injury, and WWE have already announced he will be appearing on Monday Night RAW as the fallout of Survivor Series gets underway on-screen.
It's unclear what his first storyline could be, though many have speculated that he will feud with Jey Uso after he was involved in his injury storyline well over a year ago.
CM Punk will also be on RAW after his sensational return at the end of Survivor Series following his sacking from AEW earlier on this year.
Orton appeared to wave to Punk from the ring as the former UFC star made his way out into the arena following the War Games match on Saturday.
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