Randy Orton Helping Kevin Owens Through Injury Ordeal

Kevin Owens might not be back in a WWE ring anytime soon—but Randy Orton is doing what he can behind the scenes to support him.

In an interview with Complex, where Orton confirmed his desire to sign another five-year deal with WWE, The Viper opened up about KO’s devastating neck injury. While earlier reports suggested a six-to-eight-month recovery window, new backstage word says WWE isn’t expecting Owens back until at least 2026—putting WrestleMania 42 off the table completely. Orton, who knows firsthand what it’s like to deal with a career-threatening injury, didn’t hold back his emotions.

“If we’re being real here, my heart breaks for Kevin,” Orton said. “I think, first and foremost, I just hate that he’s gotta go through that. Even more than a physical journey he’s gotta go on to let his body heal, it’s a mental journey too. His body’s been through it, and now he’s paying that price, like he said in the ring the other day. We all pay the price at one point or another.”

It’s a tough truth in pro wrestling, and Orton’s comments only added weight to just how serious Owens’ condition may be. WWE sources said that the company is no longer building creative around KO’s return this year—and “it’s quite possible” he won’t be medically cleared for WrestleMania 42.

Orton revealed he’s already helped set Owens up with a second opinion from the same surgeon who treated his own career-threatening back injury. For now, Orton’s message to KO is simple: “Make the best decision for yourself and your family… and reach out if you need to talk.”

Fans might not see Owens for a long time, but it’s clear he’s got real support in the locker room—and a possible redemption arc waiting when he’s ready.

How would you book Kevin Owens’ eventual return in 2026? Should he come back with a new mission—or chase revenge for everything he’s missed? Let us know in the comments.