Randy Orton has viciously hunted Sami Zayn during SmackDown last Friday and has not spared his expectations. In a face-to-face promo before their King of the Ring semi-final match, Orton commended the heart and the drive of Zayn. It was many times spoken of how he would become a world champion someday, but on this occasion, the Viper was quick to clarify that the Canadian opponent would not be partying at SummerSlam.
Zayn lost, and followers saw an exciting game. Orton pinned him with another surprise RKO after Zayn barely avoided a lone one to book his position in the finals to be held at the Night of Champions on June 28, in Riyadh. Orton recalled that incident and grinned: I knew what would be the finish.
Zayn’s Journey: From Underdog to King of the Ring Contender
Sami Zayn did not become so strong by mistake. He had already defeated Bron Breakker, Dominik Mysterio, and Penta in the first round by demonstrating determination and momentum. His tearful promo before the match against Orton even reminded his fellow wrestlers that he had never won a world title. Orton even admitted to the fact that Zayn has a bright future but it was not the time yet.
Although he failed, Zayn brought hope into the story of WWE. His heart is in the right place as his emotional determination rings true in those recent tales such as Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes' stories which it seems to be time to break through. WWE insiders feel that this arc is not finished. The future of a world title may already be sewn.
Blocking Zayn on his rise and presenting him as a future champion, Orton brilliantly increased the drama in the tournament and the legacy of the future champion. As Orton gets to the final we wonder, will it be Cody Rhodes or Jey Uso? The two will crash against each other to find out who will contend with the main big guns in the world championship at SummerSlam.