Kevin Owens doesn't know 'if or when' he can return to WWE

Kevin Owens attacked Cody Rhodes after WWE's Bad Blood premium live event. The footage was shared from a "fan's camera," around social media. On a Saturday, Oct. 12 episode of "SmackDown!" Owens attempted to explain why he attacked his former friend, only to have his microphone cut off.

Randy Orton tried to play peacemaker after Rhodes came out to confront Owens, leading Orton to receive an elbow to the face. Of course, The Viper quickly retaliated, leading to Owens attacking him later in the show.

Now, Owens is prepared not to return to the WWE. In a video he posted to X on Friday, he noted that the company had disrespected him by choosing Rhodes's side and cutting off his microphone. He also took aim at Orton's actions, claiming things would have been different if the shoe was on the other foot. It's the second video Owens has shared on the platform this week.

"For WWE officials to tell me to stay home, not come to work, not come to 'SmackDown!' where I belong," Owens said. "...It's just so unfair and ridiculous...It really makes me ask myself how appreciated and valued I am by this company...What I can't get over is what Orton did to me. Randy, I can't believe that you betrayed me like that...I just can't believe you picked Cody Rhodes over me. I gotta be honest with everybody... I really don't know if or when I can come back."

Owens is reportedly nearing the end of his current contract with WWE. The current angle of his storyline is likely playing into the uncertainty of his future with the company. His videos on social media are likely kayfabe, adding new layers to the story while driving more eyeballs onto "SmackDown!" to see what unfolds.

However, there's always the chance there's a slither of truth to what's happening. Maybe Owens does feel slighted by WWE pushing Rhodes. Maybe his head has been turned by AEW's interest and the opportunity to help boost a stuttering brand.

The most likely scenario is that Owens is part of a slow build toward a major PLE main event, potentially with a tag partner to face his former friends. Or even a one-on-one with Rhodes for the Universal Championship.

Owens has been a top-tier star for WWE throughout his career with the company. He's still capable of being a main event talent for a couple more years. It remains unlikely that he will be making the jump to AEW. Nevertheless, WWE is playing things smart. As his current storyline could explain him leaving the company or position him for a big push in a heel role.

Whatever happens next is sure to be good TV.