How Randy Orton can break John Cena's WWE World Title record

John Cena might have engraved his name into WWE history with a record-breaking 17th world title at WrestleMania 41, but it seems his long-time rival isn’t ready to let him ride into retirement unchallenged. On RAW after WrestleMania, just as Cena was celebrating his historic win and taunting fans with talks of retirement, RKO outta nowhere silenced the new champion. Randy Orton’s return to the title picture was loud, lethal, and left a clear message - the Apex Predator has unfinished business.

Randy Orton is already a 14-time WWE World Champion. With Cena now holding the record at 17, the numbers might seem distant, but they’re not unreachable - especially with Cena hinting at only 26 more appearances in his farewell tour.
Orton’s path to the record could be driven by two key factors: WWE’s preference for storytelling symmetry, and Orton’s revival after a long injury layoff. His recent appearances have shown he’s still in top physical condition, and if WWE is booking a redemption arc, putting him back in the title spotlight would make for great television - especially with Cena in heel mode for the first time in over two decades.
With WWE Backlash set to take place in Randy Orton’s hometown of St. Louis, the storyline writes itself. A championship match between Cena and Orton could not only deliver a nostalgic clash of titans but also possibly mark Orton’s 15th world title win - narrowing the gap to just two.
Add in another potential run by the end of 2025, possibly at SummerSlam or Survivor Series - and Orton could find himself at 16, tied with Ric Flair. From there, one more world title win would put him on level terms with Cena. A WrestleMania 42 main event showdown between Cena and Orton for the record-breaking 18th title could be the climax WWE fans never knew they needed.
While Cena may be in his farewell year, Orton has hinted at having more in the tank. If WWE wants to build one final generational arc, Orton is the most credible and compelling challenger to not just face Cena - but surpass him. The record isn’t sealed just yet. The Viper is watching, waiting, and could very well strike his way into the record books.