Shawn Michaels Bans Kevin Owens from the Performance Center Ahead of the NXT Show

The NXT Director wants to avoid a possible altercation with CM Punk

The Canadian was at the building to have a minor shoulder injury treated

Kevin Owens
Photo Credit: WWE
Antonio Rubio
Antonio Rubio
Published 11/04/2026

In just a few hours, NXT will host one of the weekly episodes that has generated the most excitement among fans. The show will feature three major superstars from WWE's main roster (with a fourth talent still to be revealed). Among them is CM Punk, who will get his first shot at the developmental brand's top championship.

"The Best in the World"'s match has sparked intense debate ever since it was announced at Halloween Havoc. Many fans are speculating that the match may not end cleanly due to a possible interference by Kevin Owens, who is currently embroiled in an intense and deeply personal rivalry with Punk. However, this possibility could be ruled out. At least, that is what Shawn Michaels reportedly tried to ensure earlier today.

In fact, the NXT Director explicitly asked the Canadian star to leave the WWE Performance Center. Owens, who had arrived at the facility to receive treatment for a shoulder issue, decided to record the conversation to document what happened and express his displeasure with Michaels' decision.

Kevin Owens and CM Punk will face each other again in a No Holds Barred Match during the next episode of Friday Night SmackDown. The match was taped last Monday after the live broadcast of Monday Night Raw had ended and will air this Friday as part of the blue brand's show.

Meanwhile, the NXT Championship match is expected to headline tonight's show. It remains to be seen whether Owens will find a way to gain access to the venue and interfere in the match, potentially costing his archrival the victory.