Kevin Owens out of Mixed Match Challenge, next week’s matches set
Injuries continue to affect season two of Mixed Match Challenge.
On last night’s episode, it was officially confirmed that Kevin Owens will have to be replaced in the tournament. Owens had been teaming with Natalya as “Team Pawz.” Natalya’s new partner hasn’t been revealed, but Natalya & Owens’ replacement will be facing Mickie James & Bobby Lashley on next week’s episode.
The Miz & Asuka vs. Rusev & Lana is also set for next Tuesday’s Mixed Match Challenge.
As was noted in yesterday’s daily update, the injury angle from Monday’s Raw was a cover because Owens needs knee surgery. The severity of Owens’ knee problems won’t be known until he goes into surgery.
Owens is the third wrestler to have to withdraw from Mixed Match Challenge season two. James replaced Sasha Banks in the tournament, and Ember Moon replaced Alexa Bliss.
Here are the updated standings for Mixed Match Challenge:
Raw block —
- Braun Strowman & Ember Moon (2-0)
- Bobby Lashley & Mickie James (1-0)
- Finn Balor & Bayley (1-1)
- Natalya & ??? (0-1)
- Jinder Mahal & Alicia Fox (0-2)
SmackDown block —
- AJ Styles & Charlotte Flair (2-0)
- The Miz & Asuka (1-0)
- Jimmy Uso & Naomi (1-1)
- Rusev & Lana (0-1)
- R-Truth & Carmella (0-2)
Joseph Currier is the lead editor of F4WOnline.com, directing daily news coverage and writing articles on professional wrestling. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, obtaining a journalism degree in 2016. Joseph joined F4W during his time at UMass and has now been writing about the industry for nearly a decade.
In addition to his work with F4W, Joseph has previously contributed to Sports Illustrated's wrestling coverage. He lives in Massachusetts and is a diehard fan of the Boston sports teams and Liverpool Football Club.