Randy Orton achieved a hard-fought victory against Cody Rhodes in the main event of Sunday Night's Main Event held in Atlanta. The end of the match was marked by controversy and an emotional twist that allowed Orton to take advantage of the situation to secure the win.
Rhodes performed a leap from the ring to the outside that took out both Orton and the referee. Taking advantage of the confusion, Rhodes struck Orton against the steel steps next to the ring, causing a cut on his head. Back in the ring, Rhodes executed two Cross Rhodes and was about to perform a third when he suddenly stopped.
Rhodes looked towards the corner and signaled that he was going to use Orton's signature kick, known as punt. Just as Rhodes was about to execute it, Orton raised his hand, momentarily halting the action. Rhodes struggled with his emotions as a second referee entered the ring to hold him back and prevent him from continuing.
This distraction allowed Orton to illegally strike Rhodes and the referee with a low blow. He then delivered an RKO to Rhodes. The first referee recovered enough to make the three count, granting the victory to Orton.
Orton had been off television since his defeat to Rhodes at WrestleMania 42, held in April. He returned at SummerSlam in August, preventing Rhodes from getting his shot at the WWE Championship. Later that same month, a second match was scheduled for Sunday Night's Main Event, with the stipulation that neither could touch each other before the event or they would forever lose their title opportunity.
During the build-up to the match, Orton tried to emotionally affect Rhodes by attacking his family. Rhodes' mother and his wife, Brandy, were present ringside during the match in Atlanta.
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