Unexpected WWE NXT Name Puts Himself in the Mix for Randy Orton WrestleMania 41 Match

With Kevin Owens officially out of WrestleMania 41 due to neck surgery, Randy Orton’s match on the grandest stage suddenly vanished—until a surprising name from WWE NXT threw his name in the mix.

During the April 4 episode of SmackDown, Owens broke the news to fans that lingering neck issues since January had finally caught up with him. The surgery will sideline him just as he was set to take on Randy Orton at WrestleMania. SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis followed the announcement by claiming Orton would now be off the card entirely.

But that didn’t sit right with everyone—especially one up-and-comer from NXT. Myles Borne, who’s been gaining traction in NXT as part of the No Quarter Catch Crew, took to social media with a simple but sharp response to a fan who pitched him as Orton’s replacement: “I mean I’m pretty free that weekend.”

The quote caught fire among fans who have often compared Borne’s early demeanor and style to a young Randy Orton. And while Borne isn’t booked for NXT Stand & Deliver—set to take place the same weekend as WrestleMania—his availability alone sparked buzz online about what WWE could be planning.

On paper, Borne stepping in for Owens seems like a stretch. He’s yet to compete on the main roster, and Orton’s legacy demands a marquee-level opponent. But in a year when anything seems possible, and with the right story, even left-field moves like this can catch fire.

No official word from WWE yet on who—if anyone—will face Orton now that Owens is out. But if Myles Borne gets the nod, it could be a game-changing night for the NXT breakout.

Do you think Myles Borne should face Randy Orton at WrestleMania? Or should WWE go in a bigger direction? Drop your pick in the comments and let us know who you want to see across from The Viper in Philly.