Randy Orton‘s scheduled autograph and photo opportunities at Fanatics Fest may have been canceled. Nevertheless, a new report suggests WWE fans shouldn’t count The Viper out just yet.
Despite the changes to the event schedule, expectations behind the scenes reportedly point in a different direction.
The update comes as Orton continues his absence from WWE television. This has left fans eager for any sign of his next public appearance.
Randy Orton still expected at Fanatics Fest despite canceled sessions
According to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, Orton is still expected to attend Fanatics Fest in New York City this weekend despite his official autograph and photo-op sessions being removed from the schedule.
The report states that WWE sources still expect Orton to be present. Contacts on the Fanatics side are also anticipating his attendance. Although his scheduled fan interactions were canceled, neither side reportedly believes he will miss the event altogether.
No official reason has been given for the cancellation of Orton’s autograph and photo opportunities. However, the report indicates the expectation remains that he will be in New York, just not in an official capacity involving scheduled fan appearances. Until WWE says otherwise, the situation appears to be more of an RKO out of nowhere than a full-blown exit.
Orton has kept a low profile since WrestleMania 42, where he unsuccessfully challenged Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Reports ahead of that match suggested Orton was dealing with physical issues, and he has not appeared on WWE programming since.
His status for SummerSlam on August 1 and 2 has also not been publicly addressed by WWE.
Fanatics Fest takes place in New York City during the same weekend as WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event at Madison Square Garden, with several WWE stars expected to be part of the festivities. While fans hoping for a photo or autograph from The Apex Predator may have to change their plans, the latest report suggests Orton could still make his presence felt.
For now, WWE has not commented on Orton’s schedule, and his next official appearance remains unconfirmed.
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