Kevin Owens, the charismatic professional wrestler, is known not only for his impressive in-ring skills but also for the distinctive ink adorning his body. A walk through Kevin Owens' tattoos is like a journey through his life, career, and personal inspirations. Let's delve into the world of Kevin Owens' tattoos, exploring the meanings behind these permanent artworks and what they tell us about the man behind them.
The first strikes we notice are the large black and white tattoos covering his arms and chest. These intricate designs, done by renowned tattoo artist Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, are reminiscent of traditional Japanese art and carry significant meanings.
Japanese-Inspired Tattoos
Kevin Owens'arm sleeves feature a mix of traditional Japanese koi fish, cherry blossoms, and other ornate designs. "The koi symbolizes struggling against adversity, which is something I can relate to in my career," Owens has stated in interviews, reflecting his dedication and resilience in pursuing his dreams in professional wrestling.
Another striking piece is the large cherry blossom tree on his chest, a symbol of renewal and spring in Japan. For Owens, this tattoo signifies the fresh starts he's had in his career, including his move from the independent circuit to WWE, and his reinvention as a heel (a wrestling term for a villainous character).
Koi Fish on His Arms
The koi fish on Owens' arms are not mere aesthetic choices but hold deep personal significance. Each koi represents a member of his family - wife Karina, son Owen, and daughter Elodie. The fish, swimming against the current, embodies the family's struggles and perseverance through life's challenges.
What's more, the koi on his left arm have red scales, symbolizing life and passion, while those on the right are black, symbolizing death and rebirth. This contrast signifies the duality of life, with both joy and hardship shaping their journey.
Cherry Blossom Tree on His Chest
The cherry blossom tree tattoo on Owens' chest is a poignant reminder of his father's passing. The tree's roots represent his father's influence on his life, while its branches signify the growth and development he achieved after his father's death. This tattoo is a powerful testament to Owens' love for his family and his resilience in the face of loss.
A closer look at the tree reveals a small, delicate lily at its base. This lily, often associated with purity and hope, is a tribute to Owens' wife Karina. It's a beautiful, intimate addition to an already profound piece of body art.
Other Notable Tattoos
Beyond the Japanese-inspired pieces, Owens has other tattoos that offer a glimpse into his personal life and wrestling career. Notably, he has the name "Stardust" on his neck, a tribute to his late friend and fellow wrestler Cody Rhodes, who wrestled under the name.
On his feet, Owens has "killing it" tattooed on his left ankle and "getting by" on his right. This tattoo, symbolizing the ups and downs of life and career, serves as a constant reminder of his journey and the importance of staying humble.
"Killing it" & "Getting by" Ankle Tattoos
The "killing it" and "getting by" ankle tattoos are a vivid representation of Owens' career oscillating between highs and lows. When he's "killing it," he's at the peak of his career, an unstoppable force in the ring. Conversely, when he's "getting by," he's grinding, persevering through the tougher times.
These tattoos are a stark reminder that even the most successful people face struggles. They serve as a motivation for Owens to always give his best, whether he's commanding the ring or facing adversity.
Stardust Neck Tattoo
The "Stardust" neck tattoo is a friendship tattoo shared with Cody Rhodes. Both Rhodes and Owens would often reminisce about their time together in WWE, leading Owens to commemorate their bond with this tattoo.
After Cody's tragic passing, Owens turned his friendship tattoo into a tribute, making the "t" in "Stardust" into a tiny, delicate lily, echoing the one on his chest tattoo. This modification serves as a poignant and touching reminder of his friend's life and their shared history.
Kevin Owens' tattoos are more than just mere ink on his skin; they're stories etched into his flesh, each one offering a glimpse into his life, his career, and his personal journey. From the large, intricate Japanese tattoos to the smaller, intimate pieces, every tattoo holds a special meaning for Owens. His body art serves as a constant reminder of his roots, his family, and his career, inspiring him to keep moving forward, "killing it" and rising above adversity. As a testament to his career and life, Owens' tattoos tell a powerful story of a man who has not just survived but thrived in the face of challenges.