Kevin Owens was supposed to be one of the protagonists of WrestleMania 41 - which took place in Las Vegas on April 19 and 20 - but a serious neck injury forced him to miss the most prestigious event of the entire WWE calendar and the expected showdown with Randy Orton did not happen.
Between the end of last season and the beginning of 2025, the Canadian veteran had unleashed a series of performances above expectations by challenging Cody Rhodes twice for the world title. Although he failed to dethrone 'The American Nightmare', the level of KO had impressed Triple H and the WWE management to the point of convincing them to offer Kevin a very lucrative contract extension.
After feuding with his best friend and compatriot Sami Zayn, Owens was destined to face 'The Viper' at the 'Showcase of the Immortals' and there were all the conditions to witness a memorable show from all points of view.
When the Canadian star announced to WWE Universe that he would not be present at Mania 41, it was a huge blow to both fans and backstage members. The truth is that KO had already started to feel some strange symptoms earlier this year, but the doctors had not realized that his neck was already in very bad condition.
Kevin continued to perform in the ring and his injury worsened further, which is why he will have to undergo surgery in the near future. His place at WrestleMania 41 was taken by Joe Hendry, who lost to Orton in Las Vegas.
KO approves of WWE's choice
In a recent interview with 'le10Sport', KO was asked about his opinion on WWE's choice to use Hendry in his place.
“In my opinion, it was a good decision. I liked the way it went. And for Joe Hendry too, I don’t know him much but he seems like a good guy. I can’t imagine how special it was for him to experience that. So I’m happy for him too and I hope it was his first, but not his last” – Owens explained.