Kevin Owens recently described an unforgettable backstage moment with Big Show that left the WWE veteran laughing so hard he broke his chair, providing fans with an entertaining glimpse behind the scenes. The popular superstar’s recounting of his Kevin Owens funny backstage WWE story took place during an interview, highlighting his early days in NXT.
A Legendary Moment at the Arnold Sports Festival
In 2015, Kevin Owens, who would go on to hold the Universal Champion title, participated in an NXT taping at the Arnold Sports Festival. On the same day, Big Show, also known as the World’s Largest Athlete, was at the venue wrestling Ryback at a house show. This convergence of WWE talent set the stage for an unexpected moment that fans would only hear about years later.
During his appearance on the podcast with Cody Rhodes, Owens recalled facing Alex Riley during his match. Owens used his signature pop-up powerbomb to defeat Riley, who was cast as the fan-favorite, or “babyface,” but the crowd was decidedly in support of Owens. The comedic sequence unfolded after the match, when Finn Bálor attempted to confront Owens, but Owens made his escape around ringside. As he sped past Alex Riley, who was still on the ground selling the effects of the contest, Owens impulsively delivered a quick kick to Riley.
“I was wrestling one Alex Riley. Intense individual, right. He’s the babyface. Nobody likes him. They like me. I put him away with a pop-up powerbomb. Then Finn Bálor comes out to stop me from attacking Alex Riley some more after the match. Riley rolls out of the ring to the floor. Finn puts me down, goes up top. He’s about to hit me with his Coup de Grace… I roll out, run away. And as I turn the corner… Alex Riley happens to be on the ground selling. So, as I pass, I throw a kick at him,”
said Owens.
—Kevin Owens, WWE Superstar
Big Show’s Uncontainable Laughter and Backstage Reaction
The quick-thinking action caught Big Show’s eye, resulting in a memorable reaction. Owens detailed how Big Show’s laughter reached such an uncontrollable level that the chair he was using collapsed beneath him. The laughter drew the attention of WrestleMania mainstay Hunter, Finn, and other WWE talent backstage, who rushed to assist Big Show as he struggled to regain composure. The incident not only showcased the camaraderie among the performers but also highlighted Owens’ ability to connect with his peers through humor. Hunter even mentioned to Owens that the kick was so amusing, it was literally the cause of Big Show’s mishap. Big Show himself reassured Owens of his acceptance and longstanding respect within WWE from that point forward.
“Show saw it, thought it was the funniest thing. Burst out laughing. Broke his chair right then and there. I come back to him on the ground, dying of laughter. Everybody circled around, trying to pick him up. Hunter comes to tell me that the kick I threw at Riley was so funny, Show broke his chair. And Show told me right then and there, ‘You’re in forever. It was so good. You’re in.’ And since then, we still keep in touch. One of the kindest people, just because I made him laugh.”
—Kevin Owens, WWE Superstar
This backstage scene not only affirmed the bond between Owens and Big Show, but also impacted how others backstage viewed the entertaining incident. It demonstrated how spontaneous moments can become legendary within the tightly knit WWE community.
Owens Shares Update on His Neck Injury Recovery
In the same conversation, Owens addressed the subject of his ongoing recovery from a neck injury. Known as “The Prizefighter,” Owens is currently out of action, which left him unable to participate in WrestleMania 41. Medical professionals have recommended that he allow his spinal cord time to heal before considering surgery, with Owens revealing that a neck fusion procedure may take place around mid-July. The timeline for his return to the ring remains uncertain, and he admitted the process has been frustrating.
Owens emphasized that the WWE medical team is prioritizing his long-term health. At present, they are hoping his spinal cord heals independently, minimizing risks associated with the injury and surgery. Updates from Owens about his recovery remain of keen interest to fans, fellow wrestlers, and organizations like Sportskeeda Wrestling, who track every development closely.
The Ongoing Impact of Kevin Owens’ WWE Career
Kevin Owens’ ability to create enduring backstage memories, such as the incident with Big Show, and his resilience amid medical challenges, underscores his vital role in WWE. While audiences await his in-ring return, Owens’ stories of humor and camaraderie continue to resonate. As he works towards recovery, he remains closely connected with key figures like Cody Rhodes and continues to inspire peers and fans alike with both his comedic timing and determination.
