WWE SummerSlam 2015: Full Predictions for Randy Orton After Win vs. Sheamus

The current state of WWE makes it difficult to project what's next for some of the company's biggest stars.

John Cena's possible opponent at SummerSlam is unclear at the moment, and for Randy Orton, things are arguably even harder to predict. 

Sure, Orton picked up a win against Sheamus at Battleground to strengthen his position, but with big names returning in time for SummerSlam, what's next for The Viper on one of the biggest shows of the year?

First things first, it looks like we can categorically rule out a return to the WWE World Heavyweight Championship scene in the long term. Whether Cena is the man who gets the shot at Seth Rollins or not, it's hard to imagine how Orton could realistically fight his way back into that scene.

However, despite the probability of Orton moving up to fight Rollins, it's worth noting that he wouldn't be the worst option in the world. The two have recent history, and the way their feud kicked off ahead of WrestleMania 31 was absolutely fantastic. 

Orton's babyface turn was aided by Rollins' work as the clever, crafty heel, and with their allegiances to The Authority both past and present, it could be an option for WWE to consider.

However, it's probably wise to accept that won't happen, so what's available for Orton?

When you weigh up the probable options at the table for him, it's hard to see past anything other than going round with Sheamus again.

There are several reasons for that; first, it would be a solid addition to the midcard at SummerSlam between two former world champions.

Both have the potential to fight their way back into the main event scene over the next six months, and the feud is similar to Bray Wyatt vs. Roman Reigns in that it seems to be working for both men at the moment.

It's also important to remember that their first bout at Battleground was enjoyable. It was a good opener to the show—certainly better than some of the other opening bouts WWE has gone with this year—and the quality of the match was impressive.

Both men brought a real physical edge out of each other from the first bell to the last, and it just seemed to click.

But if Orton and Sheamus do meet again at SummerSlam, it's vital that WWE invest some time and effort into building a credible storyline. It's adequate to rely on what they both do inside the ring to produce an enjoyable spectacle, but if fans are to get interested in the rivalry, it needs substance.

Let's see an interesting dynamic added—such as potentially having Sheamus put his Money in the Bank briefcase on the line. There's no guarantee he has to lose it; in fact, beating Orton at one of the biggest shows of the year could be just the springboard Sheamus needs to give him a boost of momentum.

As mentioned at the start of this article, it's tough to predict where Orton goes next. The world title scene looks out of reach at the moment, and all things considered, he looks destined for bout No. 2 with Sheamus at SummerSlam, with a defeat ultimately a much more likely option this time around.