Originally published on ProWrestlingSheet.

Former WWE World Champ Randy Orton could be out of action for up to 6 months, according to WWE doctors -- who say his shoulder was recently dislocated, and surgery will likely be necessary.

WWE doc Steve Daquino told WWE.com Orton's chronic shoulder problems played a part in their diagnosis ... but a recent MRI showed that's not Randy's only problem.

Daquino says Randy Orton has "a Bankart lesion in his shoulder, some stretched ligaments and a partially torn rotator cuff.” The doctor also says that without surgery, Orton will almost certainly dislocate his shoulder again.

Recovery time for the surgery is four to six months, which means it's possible the Viper could be back in time for WrestleMania 32 in Texas.

Time will tell.