WWE SmackDown: Kevin Owens To Miss WrestleMania 41, Randy Orton RKO’s Nick Aldis; Video

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Kevin Owens will not be competing at WrestleMania due to a persistent neck injury that would require surgery. The announcement by the prizefighter came as a surprise to fans, who were waiting for his highly-anticipated showdown with Randy Orton. Owens brought Nick Aldis to the ring and shared the news, explaining that his neck had been bothering him for several months and, unfortunately, he would not be able to face “The Viper” at the biggest event of the year.

Kevin Owens reveals that he’s dealing with a serious neck surgery for the last four months and he has to go get neck surgery! | #WWE #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/PgqPGroIU3

— Ringside News: WWE & AEW Wrestling News (@ringsidenews_) April 5, 2025

Owens, in a somber tone, acknowledged the frustration of missing WrestleMania but emphasized how much the support of the WWE Universe meant to him. He concluded by telling the crowd how uncertain his return to the ring was, urging them not to take their time in the squared circle for granted. The Chicago crowd showed their appreciation for Owens’ heartfelt words, cheering as he embraced Aldis and exited the ring.

Randy Orton RKO’s Nick Aldis

Orton’s theme then hit to bring him out. He stood next to Owens on the apron. Owens simply hopped off the apron and walked to the back. Orton then entered the ring and stood next to Aldis.

Aldis informed him that this means he unfortunately has no match at WrestleMania 41, leading to Orton hitting him with an RKO and leaving him laying.

.@RandyOrton is in disbelief and took it out on @RealNickAldis #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/M4a89Oabbv

— WWE (@WWE) April 5, 2025

History behind Oton-Owens rivalry

This turn of events was a bitter pill for Owens, especially considering the history he and Orton had shared leading up to this moment. The two had been embroiled in a heated feud, one that started back in October when Owens attacked Cody Rhodes during Bad Blood. Their rivalry intensified with several violent encounters, culminating in a brutal package piledriver that kept Owens out of action for months. When Orton returned at the Elimination Chamber, he wasted no time challenging Owens to a WrestleMania bout, setting the stage for a highly anticipated battle now, tragically, canceled due to Owens’ injury.