ESPN has publicly clarified its position regarding Brock Lesnar’s recent return to WWE, which occurred during SummerSlam last month after a two-year absence. The return sparked controversy due to Lesnar’s connection to an ongoing lawsuit linked to former WWE chairman Vince McMahon. Lesnar is now slated to face John Cena at Wrestlepalooza, marking the first WWE premium live event to stream on ESPN under their new five-year partnership.
ESPN Emphasizes WWE’s Creative Independence Over Talent Decisions
During a WWE-ESPN media call held before Wrestlepalooza, reporter Jon Alba questioned ESPN executives about Brock Lesnar’s participation, given Lesnar’s involvement in the lawsuit alongside Vince McMahon. ESPN representatives stressed that WWE maintains full creative control over its programming choices and the selection of its performers. They explicitly stated that ESPN does not influence which wrestlers appear on WWE events.
ESPN further clarified their position on social media, responding directly to Alba’s inquiries by highlighting WWE’s sole authority over storyline development and talent decisions, distancing themselves from any responsibility for Lesnar’s appearances.
The decision to reintegrate Lesnar into WWE programming, despite ongoing legal concerns, divided fans and drew significant criticism toward the promotion. The move raised questions about the company’s priorities amid unresolved legal issues concerning key figures.
Brock Lesnar’s Return Triggers Confrontation with John Cena on SmackDown
Brock Lesnar’s first WWE appearance since SummerSlam occurred two weeks ago on SmackDown, where John Cena was defending the United States Championship against Sami Zayn. This match marked Cena’s final active performance on SmackDown before his Wrestlepalooza showdown.
During the match, Lesnar interrupted, first delivering a powerful F-5 maneuver to Zayn. He then shifted his focus onto Cena, executing two successive F-5s on the veteran star before exiting the ring. Lesnar’s sudden attack set the tone for their renewed rivalry.
In a backstage segment shortly after the confrontation, Lesnar formally challenged Cena to a match at Wrestlepalooza. This challenge was quickly confirmed by WWE officials, scheduling the two iconic rivals to compete for one last time on September 20.
Significance of the Lesnar and Cena Match at Wrestlepalooza
The upcoming Wrestlepalooza event represents a notable milestone, as it is the first WWE premium live event to be broadcast through ESPN’s streaming platform under their newly established multi-year deal. Lesnar’s participation in this event underscores WWE’s continued reliance on high-profile stars to drive viewership and maintain audience engagement.
However, ESPN’s statement distancing itself from Lesnar’s return signals a cautious approach amid the sensitive legal backdrop involving Vince McMahon and the ongoing lawsuit filed by Janel Grant. This separation reflects ESPN’s intent to avoid entanglement in WWE’s internal disputes while still supporting the broadcasting partnership.
The Lesnar-Cena showdown is expected to draw significant attention given their storied history and the dramatic circumstances surrounding Lesnar’s return. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how WWE navigates its wrestling product during this period of legal and corporate challenges.
I asked about Brock Lesnar's involvement in WWE WrestlePalooza.
ESPN says WWE has full creative control over who appears on shows, and it falls within their jurisdiction, not ESPN's.
— Jon Alba (@JonAlba) September 17, 2025
