Watch: Randy Orton finally breaks silence on Kevin Owens’ attack on SmackDown during ongoing UK tour

KO had launched an attack on his other friend, Rhodes, after weeks of building tension between the pair. Owens’ issues stemmed from The American Nightmare’s decision to join forces with Roman Reigns . While he didn’t say anything regarding Rhodes’ choice, the erstwhile Kevin Steen was clearly angry about it. Orton playing peacemaker wasn’t enough as Owens jumped Rhodes in the parking lot after the latter defeated The Bloodline.

On the following SmackDown episode, Kevin Owens tried to pin the entire blame on Rhodes instead. This almost led to a brawl between the duo before Randy Orton once again separated both sides. However, The Apex Predator got inadvertently elbowed by Owens during the mayhem. In response, Orton gave his friend a receipt by punching him in the face. And well, KO didn’t take too kindly to that.

Kevin Owens gives WWE ultimatum ahead of this week’s SmackDown

For the first time since attacking Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens took to his X account to provide an update on his situation. Owens revealed that he was explicitly told to “stay home” ahead of last week’s episode of SmackDown.

Therefore, when he showed up unannounced to try to explain his side of the story, WWE cut off his microphone. In another attempt, Owens sent footage of him elucidating his attack on Rhodes. KO said he hoped WWE would show the footage during this week’s Raw telecast. 

Despite giving Rhodes a lot of time to speak on the show, WWE refused to air his clip. Owens claimed if the situation wasn’t resolved by this coming Friday’s SmackDown, he would have no other choice but to air his grievances on his social media account.