Kevin Owens Withdraws from WrestleMania 41 Due to Neck Injury
In a disappointing turn of events for WWE fans, Kevin Owens has announced his withdrawal from WrestleMania 41, set to take place on April 19 and 20 in Las Vegas. The announcement was made during the latest episode of WWE SmackDown, where Owens confirmed he is suffering from a significant neck injury that has persisted for four months.
Details of the Injury
Owens revealed that medical consultations have resulted in a diagnosis requiring surgery. During his emotional address to the crowd, he expressed uncertainty about when he would return to the ring, stating, “The truth is, I don’t know when I’ll have the privilege to be in front of you guys again.” He also conveyed his gratitude to fans, emphasizing the importance of not taking his wrestling career for granted.
Impact on WrestleMania 41
The timing of Owens’ injury raises questions regarding his highly anticipated match against Randy Orton, a storyline that has developed over the last five months. The tension escalated when Owens turned against Orton by executing a package piledriver on him last November. Orton’s response was further heightened after he was written off television only to return at last month’s Elimination Chamber.
Orton’s Reaction
In light of the cancellation of his WrestleMania matchup, Randy Orton’s frustration was evident as he delivered an RKO to SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis, hinting at a shift in the ongoing narrative.
WrestleMania 41 Card Highlights
Despite the setback with Owens, WrestleMania 41 promises exciting matchups, including:
- CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins to headline Night 1
- Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena for the Undisputed WWE Championship on Night 2