Backstage Details on Brock Lesnar’s SummerSlam Return – Brock Lesnar’s surprise return at SummerSlam 2025 was one of the best-kept secrets in recent WWE history, and a new report from Fightful Select reveals just how far the company went to ensure it stayed that way.
According to the report, WWE went into lockdown mode regarding Lesnar’s appearance. The Beast Incarnate was reportedly flown into Teterboro Airport in New Jersey on Saturday via private jet and kept hidden throughout the day to prevent any leaks. WWE went to such great lengths to conceal Lesnar’s presence that even many within the company—producers, writers, and other key staff—were kept completely in the dark about both the finish to the Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena Street Fight and the post-match segment.
The secrecy was so tight that it led to widespread speculation backstage, with many talents suspecting a surprise appearance but incorrectly guessing it might be The Rock instead of Lesnar.
One backstage source told Fightful that the sense of mystery came more from “what people weren’t saying” than what was being discussed. The atmosphere was noticeably different, fueling speculation throughout the evening. WWE also canceled its usual weekend media press conferences, which further raised suspicion among members of the wrestling press. Some believed that decision was directly tied to the effort to shield a major surprise return from leaking.
On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer provided further insight into the timing of Lesnar’s return. According to Meltzer, “Four weeks ago, WWE Legal cleared him,” referring to Lesnar’s legal status following his involvement in the Janel Grant sex trafficking lawsuit. Meltzer speculated that WWE may feel confident the case will be moved to arbitration or that a settlement is close—reducing Lesnar’s liability and clearing the way for his return.
Lesnar had not been seen on WWE programming since his loss to Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam 2023. After being named in the lawsuit earlier this year, WWE removed him from all promotional materials, including the WWE 2K24 video game and other branding.
Now, with the legal team reportedly greenlighting his return, plans are in motion for Lesnar to enter into a full program with John Cena, which is expected to be a centerpiece of Cena’s ongoing retirement tour.
Backstage Details on Brock Lesnar’s SummerSlam Return
