WWE SmackDown results, highlights (April 4): Kevin Owens injured, Charlotte Flair overwhelmed by boos

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WWE didn't play around in its first show back in the U.S. after a successful European tour. Chicago was revved up and ready to go, as arguably the best wrestling city in the country. There's no time to waste because this show delivered in every way.

Let's get to the bad news before the good news.

(R)KO'd

WrestleMania 41 has suffered a shake-up, as Kevin Owens has been dealing with a neck injury for the past four months that will now require surgery. He won't make it to his match with Randy Orton.

Despite reports swirling throughout the week, this felt like a possible angle — or surprise retirement at worst — the longer it went on. Owens apologized to the crowd, stating that he wished to have his match with Orton. It felt off because his recent character antics have made him the most despicable heel imaginable, so trying to garner sympathy would have been nearly impossible. By the end, fans applauded Owens on his way out, as they should have. He'll be missed from "the show of shows," and hopefully has a speedy, healthy recovery.

So, now what happens to Orton? He hit "WWE SmackDown" general manager Nick Aldis with an RKO.

I've been demanding an Aldis match in WWE. Do the right thing, Triple H. Give the man his debut match at WrestleMania 41 against Orton. It would be beautiful.

🔥 Reaction of the Night

Chicago absolutely melted Charlotte Flair. Wow. The toxic rain of boos she received was wild. Flair couldn't even get a word out and seemingly gave up on her promo battle with Tiffany Stratton, who completely scorched Flair along with the crowd. The champion hit some deep cut lines about the fans, her dad Ric Flair, Flair's past drinking troubles and even her marriage failures.

This. Felt. Personal.