Kevin Owens Not Expected Back in WWE in 2025—Could Even Miss WrestleMania 42

Kevin Owens could be out for way longer than anyone expected—and next year’s WrestleMania might be off the table too.

Despite reports suggesting a return within the year, WWE sources told Fightful Select that they “aren’t expecting him back in 2025.” In fact, it’s “quite possible” that Owens misses WrestleMania 42 entirely.

This comes just after fans believed the former Universal Champion had undergone neck surgery on April 7. That turned out to be false. But even without surgery, the severity of the injury seems to have WWE officials preparing for a long-term absence.

Before this update, Dave Meltzer claimed Owens had estimated a “six to eight months, or maybe a year,” recovery window, depending on rehab. Now it’s clear the outlook is far more uncertain—and potentially worse than originally feared.

Here’s what a typical fusion recovery looks like:

• 0–6 weeks: No in-ring activity. Complete rest and pain management.
• 6 weeks–3 months: Physical therapy begins, no bumping allowed.
• 3–6 months: Light bump training starts, still closely monitored.
• 6–12+ months: Cleared if bone fusion is successful, but not guaranteed.

For fans hoping to see KO back soon, it might be time to buckle up for a much longer wait.

Do you think WWE should start building toward a major Owens return story in 2026? Or could this be something more serious long-term? Leave your take in the comment section below.