Global Edition
Global Edition
UK Edition
EU Edition
US Edition

Understand the story, not the spin.

Markets

Kevin Owens' WWE Return Delayed by Neck Injury Recovery

Published 18 January 2026

Kevin Owens, a prominent WWE wrestler known for his high-profile rivalries and in-ring prowess, continues to recover from a serious neck injury sustained in April 2025, with his return to the ring now appearing further delayed than initially anticipated.

The injury forced Owens to miss WrestleMania 42, one of WWE's flagship events, and has kept him out of action for over a year. According to reports from wrestling insiders, Owens did not undergo surgery until July 2025, several months after the incident occurred. Since then, there have been no signs of him resuming intensive in-ring training. Internal sources indicate that WWE has not developed any creative plans for his comeback, reflecting a deliberate strategy to prioritize his long-term health over a rushed timeline.

Earlier optimism among fans and observers surfaced in November 2025, when Owens shared a brief video clip of his rehabilitation training at the WWE Performance Center. The footage suggested steady progress and fueled speculation that he could make a surprise appearance at Royal Rumble 2026, potentially marking a dramatic re-entry into the spotlight. However, that hope has since faded. Those close to the...

Now playing
0:00 / 0:00