Kevin Owens’ WWE Return Still Uncertain Following Neck Surgery

Kevin Owens’ return to WWE is still up in the air—despite early signs of hope that he might be back by Royal Rumble 2026.

After suffering a serious neck injury in April 2025, Owens was pulled from WrestleMania 42, sidelining one of WWE’s most consistent performers. While fans held onto optimism thanks to a short rehab training video Owens shared later in the year, that momentum appears to have stalled.

According to internal sources via Fightful Select, Owens didn’t undergo surgery until July 2025, months after the injury occurred. Since then, there’s been no indication that he has resumed full-scale in-ring training—and WWE reportedly has no creative plans in motion for his return.

At this stage, WWE is said to be taking a cautious, long-term approach with Owens, prioritizing his health over any timeline for a comeback. While Royal Rumble was once viewed as a possible target date, that now appears unlikely.

The silence surrounding Owens’ return isn’t due to a lack of interest—but rather a mutual understanding that his eventual comeback will happen on his own terms, and only when he’s fully ready. Neck injuries can alter careers, and WWE knows it. For now, the company is keeping the door open but won’t force it.

Do you think WWE should wait for Kevin Owens to return at 100%, or would you like to see him involved in some way before he’s cleared? Let us know how you’d book KO’s comeback in the comments.