Kevin Owens heartbreaking WrestleMania 41 exit wasnt just part of the showits real. The WWE star has undergone neck surgery and now faces a brutal road to recovery, with a long stretch on the sidelines that could last over a year.
According to Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer confirmed Owens surgery was believed to have taken place on 4/7. Meltzer added, In most cases, this type of surgery leads to the person being out 12 to 15 months although there are other forms of neck surgery that can be done. Tommaso Ciampa several years back had a shorter recovery time.
Owens himself seems hopeful that his recovery may be quicker. Meltzer reported that Owens put the timetable as six to eight months, or maybe a year, depending on how well his rehab goes.
The update follows Owens emotional promo on the April 4 episode of SmackDown, where he told fans hed miss WrestleMania 41 due to the injury. I waited my whole life for this, and now I dont know when Ill be back, he said. At the time, WWE insiders described the situation as awful, with early reports pointing toward potential neck fusion surgery.
Typically, fusion surgery recovery is no joke:
- 06 weeks: Total rest, pain management, and no in-ring activity
- 6 weeks3 months: Physical therapy and light workoutsno bumps
- 36 months: Slow reintroduction to training and light bump-taking
- 612+ months: Return possible but monitored closely
The neck is one of the most dangerous areas to mess with in pro wrestling, and any recovery timeline can shift quickly. WWE wont clear anyone until theyre 100% safe to perform again.
Legends like Stone Cold Steve Austin, Edge, and Kurt Angle have all walked this path. While some made comebacks, others were never quite the same. Owens fans are now left hoping hell land on the right side of that history.
Whats your takeshould Kevin Owens take as long as needed, or are you hoping to see him back in the ring by the end of 2025? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
