WWE WWE SmackDown star Kevin Owens has had to withdraw from WrestleMania 41 with only two weeks left.
The card for this year's big event in Las Vegas , which will be the first to stream live on Netflix is coming together, but KO’s bout against Randy Orton has been canceled.
Discussing on last night’s installment of SmackDown, former world champion Owens He has confirmed that he is coping with a 'quite severe neck injury' that necessitates surgical intervention.
'The truth is: Over the past four months or so, I've been coping with quite a severe neck injury,' the 40-year-old wrestler informed the audience.
'We were unsure of what it was and didn't fully comprehend its severity. Fortunately, this week we diagnosed it, and now I must undergo neck surgery.'
'So that's my plan, but unfortunately, the timing is terrible because trust me, missing out on facing Randy Orton at WrestleMania is really disappointing.'
Audience members felt devastated by Owens' statement, with several fans sobbing and many questioning how much longer he will remain an active wrestler following the injury reports.
'I'm really feeling emotional. I adore Kevin Owens. That guy is a true wrestler,' penned @TheKInspired on X, whereas @MoEatsCurry commented: 'Tears are streaming down my face, man. Kevin Owens is seriously injured and might require neck surgery.'
And @MindYouWill added: 'The news of Kevin Owens needing surgery and potentially never wrestling again has left me in tears😢😢😢'
Currently, it looks like WWE might be shifting focus towards a matchup between Orton and Aldis, who began his journey in wrestling in his home country of the UK and competed globally, eventually claiming championships in both TNA and the National Wrestling Alliance.
He last competed in October 2023, shortly before he took on his on-screen SmackDown character, but he continues to express openness about staying active in wrestling matches.
WWE WrestleMania will be available for live stream on Netflix from April 19 to April 20.
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