WWE legend Randy Orton made a surprise return at the Elimination Chamber 2025, leaving the crowd stunned with a brutal attack on Kevin Owens. The unexpected comeback happened right after Kevin Owens defeated Sami Zayn in a hard-fought Unsanctioned match a bout that is already being hailed as one of the greatest WWE matches in recent years.
Owens pinned Zayn after delivering two devastating Powerbombs on the ring apron. However, the night was far from over. As KO attempted to deliver a Package Piledriver on Zayn outside the ring, Orton’s iconic music hit the arena, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The Viper slowly walked out, soaking in the electric atmosphere before confronting Owens.
After a brief stare-down, Orton struck with his trademark RKO, dropping Owens to the mat. The WWE veteran then teased his signature Punt Kick, but Owens managed to escape just in time. Frustrated, Orton turned his fury on the security guards trying to restrain him, delivering multiple RKOs before finally standing tall and greeting the fans with his classic pose on the ring corner.
Timeline to the buildup of Kevin Owens vs Sami Zayne Elimination Chamber match
The feud between Owens and Zayn dates back several years, with the duo sharing a history of friendship, betrayal, and reconciliation. After Zayn aligned himself with The Bloodline in 2022, he betrayed Owens. However, he later realized his mistake and reunited with Owens in 2023, helping him take down the dominant faction.
Their bond led to a memorable victory over The Usos at WrestleMania 39, where they became the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions. Despite losing the titles and being drafted to different brands, they remained on friendly terms — until Owens’ shocking heel turn last year.
KO attacked Cody Rhodes during his feud with Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, signaling his shift to the dark side. During the build-up to the Royal Rumble 2025, Owens attempted to recruit Zayn to support him against Rhodes but was unsuccessful.
After losing to Rhodes at the Royal Rumble, Owens’ frustration boiled over. He ambushed Zayn with a Package Piledriver following Zayn’s defeat in a Chamber qualifying match against CM Punk on RAW.
Despite not being medically cleared, Zayn pushed for a showdown with Owens at Elimination Chamber 2025. WWE official Adam Pearce reluctantly approved the match under unsanctioned rules. The two delivered a hard-hitting battle, with Owens ultimately securing the victory.
However, the drama didn’t end there. After the match, Owens attempted to inflict further punishment on Zayn — only for Randy Orton’s music to hit, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
