Kevin Owens return to WWE is still up in the airdespite 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 WWEs 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 didnt undergo surgery until July 2025, months after the injury occurred. Since then, theres been no indication that he has resumed full-scale in-ring trainingand 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 isnt due to a lack of interestbut rather a mutual understanding that his eventual comeback will happen on his own terms, and only when hes fully ready. Neck injuries can alter careers, and WWE knows it. For now, the company is keeping the door open but wont 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 hes cleared? Let us know how youd book KOs comeback in the comments.
