Overview

• Owens said he underwent a single-level cervical fusion on July 18 that he and his surgeon consider the best-case scenario and a successful operation.
• In his first public appearance since surgery as grand marshal of NASCAR’s Coke Zero Sugar 400 in Daytona, he cautioned there is no guarantee the fusion will take.
• He expressed hope to be back in the ring within about a year but emphasized that the timeline depends on how his body heals.
• Coverage notes that any eventual return would likely include tune-up matches and a lighter travel schedule as doctors monitor his recovery.
• Responding to fan chatter about his appearance, he posted a lighthearted message on X reassuring supporters about his weight.