This is the type of feud that, if done right, could take Kofi Kingston’s title reign from good to great.
On this week’s episode of SmackDown, Kingston called out Randy Orton for a title defense at SummerSlam. The WWE champion didn’t just want to face The Viper for his recent actions, but from real life heat between the two men dating back to 2009.
Kingston talked up Orton using his influence and presence backstage to keep him down on the mid-card for all those years. The promo was really well done from Kingston, and Orton’s reply was even better.
"You think I used my influence to hold you back? Damn right I did." - @RandyOrton to #WWEChampion @TrueKofi #SDLive #SummerSlam pic.twitter.com/fFLou5vsNx
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) July 24, 2019
Not only did Orton admit to not liking Kingston, he also took credit for the start of #KofiMania. How? It was Orton who injured Mustafa Ali and opened the door for Kingston to fight his way into the Elimination Chamber.
Things are breaking down in this match between the #WWEChampion @TrueKofi and @SamoaJoe thanks to #TheViper @RandyOrton! #SDLive pic.twitter.com/rNThoCrRje
— WWE (@WWE) July 24, 2019
On paper, Kofi Kingston versus Randy Orton could be the best story at SummerSlam. Can WWE pull it off?
Get complete SmackDown results and coverage here.