Dutch Mantell, a respected former WWE manager, recently addressed speculation surrounding Brock Lesnar‘s WrestleMania opponent. While Lesnar is expected to have a prominent match at the event, Mantell expressed skepticism that LA Knight, rumored by the Wrestling Observer to be Lesnar’s opponent, is the right choice.
The report noted that WWE had internally listed LA Knight as Lesnar’s potential adversary for the Showcase of Immortals. Knight had gained attention earlier this year by assisting in Brock’s elimination at the Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabia.
In a segment on Story Time with Dutch Mantell, the veteran explained his lack of enthusiasm for a Lesnar-Knight bout, questioning what they could creatively deliver in the ring. Instead, Mantell suggested that a clash between Brock Lesnar and Gunther, known as the Career Killer, would offer a more compelling narrative and simple buildup centered on strength and dominance.
“That doesn’t grab me at all. What are they gonna do in it? Lock up and do some stuff. Run around the ring? I would think that Gunther and Brock Lesnar would be a great match. They haven’t had a match yet, have they?” He continued, “All they gotta do is Brock come back and say something about him. He says you beat this guy and this guy, but you won’t beat me. I’m gonna stop you. You’re the legend slayer, let’s see you slay me. I would actually pay to see how they would do that match.”
The reasoning highlights Mantell’s belief that a Lesnar versus Gunther contest could deliver more excitement due to their reputations and physical styles.
Upcoming Appearance of Brock Lesnar on Monday Night RAW
Brock Lesnar is scheduled to appear on the February 23, 2026 episode of WWE’s Monday Night RAW, marking his first public appearance since his participation in the Royal Rumble earlier in the year. Lesnar entered the Rumble match at number 22 and was eliminated after lasting 5 minutes and 32 seconds.
WWE reaffirmed Lesnar’s upcoming RAW appearance during a recent broadcast of SmackDown, where it was announced he would be featured in Atlanta ahead of the Elimination Chamber event, which follows shortly after. Fans and analysts alike are eager to learn what Lesnar will reveal or challenge next on the show.
Speculation Surrounding WrestleMania Matchups and Their Significance
As WrestleMania approaches, the choice of Brock Lesnar’s opponent remains a topic of intense discussion and debate. The contrasting opinions, especially from veteran figures like Dutch Mantell, emphasize the importance of selecting a matchup that will resonate creatively and competitively. Lesnar’s potential showdown with Gunther could offer a straightforward yet impactful storyline with both wrestlers’ reputations on the line, delivering high stakes for the event.
This rivalry could draw significant interest given Gunther’s “Career Killer” nickname and Lesnar’s legacy as the “Beast,” lending itself to a simple but powerful narrative. Meanwhile, the rumored bout with LA Knight has been met with skepticism regarding its ability to engage the audience on the same level.
With Lesnar’s RAW appearance imminent and WrestleMania plans unfolding, fans will be closely watching for official announcements and any signs pointing to his eventual opponent, as this decision will shape one of the marquee matches of WWE’s biggest show of the year.
The Beast is back! 😤@BrockLesnar returns to #WWERaw THIS MONDAY in Atlanta!
🎟️: https://t.co/Wmis0m20an pic.twitter.com/LtqCtygHwt
— WWE (@WWE) February 20, 2026
