The suspense surrounding Randy Orton’s opponent for WrestleMania 41 has finally been resolved. TNA Champion Joe Hendry has been announced as Orton’s competitor for this highly anticipated event taking place in Las Vegas. This revelation comes after Orton was unable to face Kevin Owens due to a significant neck injury, thus prompting the search for a replacement.
The audience erupted in excitement upon Hendry’s entrance, showcasing his status as one of professional wrestling’s most dynamic emerging talents. Notably, Hendry, who wore the TNA Championship during his entrance, made history as the first non-WWE champion to compete at a WrestleMania event, marking a significant moment in the annual spectacle.
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SAY HIS NAME AND HE APPEARS AT WRESTLEMANIA! ðŸ‘\u008fðŸ‘\u008f pic.twitter.com/QVhx4qZxuU — WWE (@WWE) April 21, 2025
Hendry’s participation in WrestleMania was a groundbreaking achievement, representing the inaugural appearance of a non-WWE championship during this prestigious event. This milestone coincides with WWE’s strategic growth, highlighted by the recent acquisition of AAA by TKO Group Holdings, WWE’s parent company. Such developments indicate WWE’s intention to forge stronger relationships with other wrestling promotions.
During the match, Hendry showcased his skills against Orton, who is renowned for his legendary wrestling acumen. Ultimately, Hendry fell to a sudden RKO—his signature move—that concluded the contest. Notably, before executing a second RKO, Orton took a moment to acknowledge Hendry, praising him in front of the audience. This endorsement could significantly enhance Hendry’s profile in the wrestling community, further establishing him as a rising star in the industry.