MINNEAPOLIS: Kevin Owens made a memorable return to WWE after a 15-month absence, defeating Sami Zayn, Finn Bálor and Gunther in a dramatic Fatal Four-Way match at SummerSlam 2026 Night Two on Sunday.
The former Universal Champion had not competed since April 2025 after being sidelined by a serious neck injury, which ultimately forced him to withdraw from a planned WrestleMania match against Randy Orton.
Owens later underwent neck fusion surgery in July 2025 and spent more than a year recovering before making his highly anticipated comeback at the U.S. Bank Stadium.
His return came as a complete surprise to fans and quickly became one of the standout moments of the premium live event. The contest was initially scheduled as a number-one contender’s match between Sami Zayn and Finn Bálor.
However, SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis changed the complexion of the bout moments before it began by adding former world champion Gunther, turning it into a Triple Threat encounter.
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The surprises did not stop there. As the competitors prepared for the match, Owens’ entrance music echoed throughout the arena, drawing a thunderous reaction from the crowd as Aldis revealed him as the fourth participant.
The match featured several momentum swings and near falls, with all four competitors coming close to victory. Gunther appeared to be in control during the closing stages after planting Bálor with a powerful powerbomb, while Zayn responded with an Exploder Suplex into the corner to keep his hopes alive.
Owens then seized his opportunity, first dropping Gunther with a Stunner before delivering the same move to his longtime friend and former tag-team partner Zayn. The Canadian veteran capitalised immediately, pinning Zayn to secure the victory in his first match back.
The win not only marked a successful return for Owens but also earned him a guaranteed future WWE Championship match against current titleholder CM Punk.
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