Why Rusev & Malakai Black Weren't Considered For Randy Orton's WWE WrestleMania 41 Match

Randy Orton’s match with Joe Hendry at WWE WrestleMania 41 was one of the highlights of the weekend, with the TNA World Champion’s appearance a surprise.

However, some wondered why the likes of Rusev or Malakai/Aleister Black weren’t considered to face Orton, with both having signed new deals with the company. Despite both men being part of the company, a report from Fightful Select states that neither man was considered for the bout, with WWE having firm plans in mind for both performers.

In the case of Rusev, the ‘Bulgarian Brute’ made his surprise return to WWE on the Raw after WrestleMania, dismantling Alpha Academy single-handedly. Rusev is in line to be added to the mix ‘in a major way’ going forward.

As for Black, whilst his return has yet to be confirmed, vignettes airing on SmackDown suggest the former NXT Champion is set for a return on April 25, with WWE reportedly not wanting to change course on this.

Joe Hendry was reportedly considered for the bout as soon as Orton’s planned opponent Kevin Owens was ruled out with injury.

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