WWE SmackDown Grades: RKO Builds World Cup Momentum

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1. Randy Orton vs. Jeff Hardy

One of the best feuds of the year so far has been the struggle between Randy Orton and Jeff Hardy.  Fans assumed it was over after a hellacious Hell in a Cell match last month, but last night saw the feud returned in anticipation of a big event coming up.

The Viper defeated The Charismatic Enigma at Hell In A Cell in one of the more brutal matches in a long time, but their paths would cross again in the main event last night.  Orton went one-on-one with Hardy again, but this time it was all about the World Cup tournament coming up at Crown Jewel and gaining momentum for that event.

Both men are already in the World Cup, but a win last night would be a big deal moving forward.  The match was pretty good from start to finish with The Viper reverting back to his old tricks of trying to stretch Hardy’s earlobe again.  It seemed like Hardy was going to win for a minute, but Orton wouldn’t allow it to happen.

After Hardy went for a Twist Of Fate, Orton was able to counter it into an RKO and that would be all he needed to get the win.  The Viper is heading into Crown Jewel with a legit shot at winning the World Cup tournament, and it wouldn’t be crazy to think these two would meet up in the ring again in the near future.

The Apex Predator made another statement courtesy of The Charismatic Enigma that could carry over into Crown Jewel.

Final Grade: B