Brock Lesnar has always been a major figure in WWE, making his sporadic appearances all the more exciting for fans. In recent weeks, rumors have surfaced about the possibility of “The Beast” making his return to the squared circle, sending the WWE Universe into a frenzy. However, a substantial update on Lesnar’s status has emerged, shedding light on the truth behind these rumors and offering insight into his future with the company.
Cody Rhodes’ Reference to Lesnar Sparks Rumors
Cody Rhodes vs. Brock Lesnar: SummerSlam 2023 Highlights
Lesnar’s name recently resurfaced during an episode of
WWE Raw, which was taped a week prior. Cody Rhodes, while interacting with GUNTHER, made a statement that many took as a direct reference to Lesnar. Rhodes declared that he had “slain a frightening beast,” a nod to his victory over Lesnar at SummerSlam in 2023. This subtle reference immediately set off speculation that Lesnar could be preparing for a return to WWE, with fans and outlets alike wondering if this was a sign of things to come.
Lesnar’s Canceled Return Earlier This Year
While Lesnar’s name is once again making headlines, it’s important to note that the last time WWE fans saw him in the ring was at SummerSlam 2023. Initially, plans were in place for Lesnar to return earlier this year, potentially around the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania season. However, those plans were scrapped, and Lesnar’s anticipated return never materialized.
One factor that may have contributed to this decision is Lesnar’s involvement in a lawsuit filed by Janel Grant against Vince McMahon, WWE, and John Laurinaitis. The lawsuit, which included accusations of sex trafficking and abuse, mentioned Lesnar. Following this, WWE reportedly removed him from its creative plans. Lesnar had originally been scheduled to face Dominik Mysterio at Elimination Chamber and GUNTHER at WrestleMania 40, but these matches never came to fruition.
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Triple H’s Comments and Lesnar’s WWE Status
Despite the setback, WWE Chief Content Officer Paul Levesque (Triple H) has not ruled out a return for Lesnar. When asked about Lesnar’s future in the company, Levesque provided no concrete answers but did leave the door open for a possible return. It’s worth noting that Lesnar is still listed on the official WWE roster page, despite earlier claims that he had been “added back.” In fact, he was never removed from the page to begin with, suggesting that Lesnar’s WWE status remains intact.
Fightful Select Update: Rumors Shot Down
Brock Lesnar returns to WWE: Raw, April 2, 2012
In response to the swirling rumors about Lesnar being in talks with WWE for a return, Fightful Select released a substantial update on his status. According to the report, high-level sources within WWE have debunked the idea that Lesnar’s return is imminent. A source stated, “There are no creative plans in place for Lesnar, and if conversations have occurred, we’ve not been briefed on that.” This comment directly refutes the notion that Lesnar’s return is actively being planned behind the scenes.
The report also highlighted that WWE had put a specific rule in place regarding Lesnar over the past few months. The rule dictated that Brock Lesnar was “not to be brought up in video packages, mentioned on promos, or referenced by commentary if it could be avoided.” This level of restriction further emphasizes that WWE has not been focused on Lesnar in recent months.
Lesnar Removed from WWE 2K24
Another noteworthy development in Lesnar’s WWE presence is his removal from the WWE 2K24 video game. Released in March 2024, the game did not feature Lesnar as a playable character, marking another instance where WWE has distanced itself from the former champion.
The Impact of the Federal Investigation
The ongoing federal investigation into Vince McMahon and WWE may also be playing a role in Lesnar’s uncertain status. According to one source within WWE’s creative team, they haven’t heard an update on Lesnar “in months” and would be “surprised if he was brought back while the federal investigation into McMahon and WWE is ongoing.”
Given Lesnar’s high-profile status, any future return would likely require careful planning, especially considering the legal scrutiny WWE is under. For now, it seems that Lesnar’s future with the company remains on hold, pending the outcome of the investigation and potential creative changes.
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Brock Lesnar's WWE contract status
Brock Lesnar emerges to back up Cody Rhodes against Roman Reigns: Raw, April 3, 2023
Lesnar's WWE contract has always been a topic of interest, given his part-time schedule and lucrative deals. It is believed that Lesnar is operating under a unique contract that allows him to make sporadic appearances, often tied to high-profile events. As of mid-2024, reports indicate that Lesnar is still under contract with WWE, but the exact details, including the number of appearances remaining, have not been disclosed.
There is speculation that his current deal could expire soon, which might influence how WWE books his future appearances. However, given Lesnar's drawing power, it's likely that WWE will attempt to extend his contract, or renegotiate terms for an even more flexible schedule.
What's next for The Beast?
Should Lesnar return, the WWE landscape could shift dramatically. Potential opponents like Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, or even newer faces like Gunther or Bron Breakker, could make for intriguing matchups. Lesnar's past rivalries with stars like Reigns and Rollins always draw attention, but a fresh feud could reinvigorate his role in WWE.
Ultimately, Lesnar's future remains a mystery, but one thing is certain: whenever "The Beast" returns, it will be on his terms, and it will undoubtedly be a must-watch moment for fans around the world. For now, the WWE Universe will