As WWE’s biggest summer extravaganza approaches, all eyes are on Randy Orton—nicknamed “The Viper”—who is on the verge of making history. With SummerSlam 2025 set for August 2–3 at East Rutherford’s MetLife Stadium, Orton is poised to break one of The Undertaker’s longest-standing records: most SummerSlam matches in WWE history .
A Legendary Tie
Randy Orton’s first SummerSlam appearance came in 2003, and he claimed his first world championship on that stage just a year later, at SummerSlam 2004 . Since then, he has compiled 16 SummerSlam appearances—tying The Undertaker, who also holds 16. Now, Orton has confirmed that this year’s MetLife show will mark his 17th, allowing him to claim sole possession of the record .
During the SummerSlam Kickoff event, Orton told Michael Cole, “I did win my very first world championship at SummerSlam in 2004 … that has me tied for the most SummerSlam matches … tied with the one-and-only Undertaker. So, at SummerSlam will be my record-setting match.” He added he aims to leave MetLife with gold—“I’m gonna fight John Cena … and I’m gonna have all these beautiful New Yorkers there cheering my ass on” .
Stakes Are Higher Than Ever
The impending career milestone comes amid an intense build-up. After a bittersweet loss to John Cena at Backlash 2025 for the WWE Championship, Orton bounced back, advancing to the finals of the King of the Ring tournament. Should he win that tournament at Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia, he’ll earn another title opportunity at SummerSlam—potentially setting the stage for a marquee rematch with Cena .
Facing Cena again would not just elevate the record-breaking match—it could also offer Orton redemption, a career-defining moment decades in the making.
Comparing Legacies
While Orton is about to break the record for most SummerSlam matches, The Undertaker still holds an edge in win–loss record at SummerSlam itself. Undertaker’s overall WrestleMania streak was 21‑0 before losing to Brock Lesnar, and then finishing 25‑2, but SummerSlam data—like number of wins—still favors “The Phenom” .
That said, Orton’s longevity is impressive by any metric. As of Backlash 2025, he holds the record for most WWE PPV and livestream matches—191 in total—surpassing The Undertaker’s 174 . Even in specialty matches, such as Hell in a Cell, Orton, with five victories across eight appearances, trails only Undertaker in total wins .
What It All Means
This record chase transcends mere numbers. SummerSlam has acted as a special stage in Orton’s career—where he first became world champion and repeatedly delivered high-stakes, high-impact matches. Now, stepping into MetLife Stadium for a 17th time, he’ll not only break a record; he’ll affirm his enduring status and impact within WWE.
For Randy Orton, surpassing The Undertaker’s SummerSlam appearances is a testament to nearly 22 years at the pinnacle of WWE. It’s a record born not from mere participation, but from consistent relevance, major storylines, and memorable battles. Whether or not he clinches the title at SummerSlam, his legacy is already etched in WWE history—soon to be further cemented by a feat only The Undertaker previously achieved.
SummerSlam 2025 won’t just crown champions—it will celebrate continuity, resilience, and history. When Orton steps into that ring at MetLife, he won’t just be chasing gold—he’ll be forging a r
ecord all his own.
