Several WWE superstars who are suffering from injuries were spotted backstage at WWE SmackDown this week. Learn who they are, how it could affect their recovery, and how it might impact future story-lines and rivalries.
WWE Injury Update: Who Was Seen Backstage at SmackDown?
This week’s WWE SmackDown tapings generated headlines not only for the action in the ring but who was backstage: several injured WWE Superstars, most of whom have not appeared on TV in weeks or even months. That generated rumors of their return times and possible changes to the blue brand’s present direction.
Let’s dissect who was said to have been seen, their injury status at present, and what it might mean for the changing WWE SmackDown scene.
Which WWE Superstars Were Backstage and Injured?
Although WWE has not made an official announcement, backstage rumors and reliable sources indicate that the below talent was backstage:
1. Kevin Owens
- Injury: Alleged minor rib injury
- Status: Likely to return in weeks
- Backstage Buzz: Owens being seen backstage is a good sign for his return, which could be leading into a Money in the Bank or SummerSlam storyline.
2. Charlotte Flair
- Injury: Torn ACL (incurred in late 2023)
- Status: Still recovering, injury long-term
- Backstage Buzz: The fact that she showed up backstage might mean that she’s started promo work or is well ahead of schedule on her rehab. Coming back in late summer or autumn appears plausible.
3. LA Knight (rumored minor concussion)
- Status: Cleared but not used in recent episodes
- Backstage Scoop: LA Knight has been agitating for a creative reboot. His presence indicates fresh ideas or coalitions might be on the works.
Why Injured Stars Are Spotted Backstage
Backstage appearances by injured stars play multiple strategic roles in WWE:
- Creative discussions: Talent participating in prominent future narratives might be brought in as early as possible.
- Fan reaction tests: WWE tends to test the reaction with online spoils or gentle reintroductions.
- Rehab and training: WWE Performance Center or backstage rings can be utilized for light training or promo tapings.
What Does This Mean for WWE Storylines?
If these returns are in the works, the SmackDown brand may get a serious makeover. Here’s what might be in store:
- Kevin Owens vs. Solo Sikoa or a Bloodline-focused feud reboot
- Charlotte Flair challenging for the Women’s Title around SummerSlam
- LA Knight joining a new faction or turning heel/face to reinvigorate his push
These developments could be vital heading into WWE’s second half of 2025, with Survivor Series and Royal Rumble build-up not too far off.
Could These Superstars Be Returning Soon?
It’s still speculative, but based on backstage presence and recovery updates, here’s a realistic estimate of return dates:
Superstar Likely Return Window
Kevin Owens Late June – Early July 2025
LA Knight Perhaps next taping cycle
Charlotte Flair August – September 2025
WWE loves surprise comebacks, so be on the lookout for sudden appearances, mystery partners, or cryptic vignettes that foreshadow these stars’ return narratives.
Social Media Fan Reactions
When word got around about these stars being backstage, the fans flocked to X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram to theorize:
“Kevin Owens at SmackDown? We NEED him back in the Bloodline story ????”
— @WrestleWatch2025
“Charlotte Flair returns incoming? Women’s division better be ready.”
— @QueenOfTheRingFan
This genuine interaction assists WWE in gauging interest in every talent’s path back.
Final Thoughts
The fact that hurt WWE talent was seen backstage at SmackDown indicates that something big is on the horizon. Whatever their appearances are for—early teases, internal discussions, or healing purposes—one thing is certain: WWE is getting ready to write a new book of feuds and returns.
Look for creative turns and emotional returns—because in WWE, the path to healing tends to run directly through the light.
❓FAQs – WWE Injured Talent & SmackDown Backstage News
Q1: Why are injured WWE Superstars at SmackDown if they’re not wrestling?
Injured stars may be present for creative planning, training, rehab updates, or promo work. Being there doesn’t necessarily mean a return is imminent, but generally, it’s a positive sign.
Q2: Is Charlotte Flair returning soon?
Though she’s still rehabbing a torn ACL, her backstage appearance suggests she could be back late summer or early fall, possibly in time for a major pay-per-view event.
Q3: What is Kevin Owens’ injury?
Kevin Owens is said to be working with rib issues, although WWE hasn’t made it official. He should be cleared by early July.
Q4: May LA Knight be rebranded or relocated to another brand?
It’s possible. WWE is trying out new avenues for some of the mid-card performers, and LA Knight’s creative standing is reported to be “under evaluation.”
Q5: Will these injured wrestlers be seen on camera before returning fully?
WWE also likes to use vignettes, promos, or gentle reintroductions to gradually reintroduce wrestlers back into the mix—particularly after lengthy time away or serious injuries.
