WWE Faces Fan Backlash After Brock Lesnar’s Return at SummerSlam – Despite a thunderous ovation inside the arena, Brock Lesnar’s shocking return to WWE at SummerSlam 2025 has sparked a major wave of backlash online, with many fans expressing outrage and even threatening to boycott the company.
Lesnar made his surprise comeback at the end of Sunday’s premium live event, storming the ring and delivering an emphatic F-5 to John Cena in a moment that left the live crowd stunned and buzzing. This was Lesnar’s first WWE appearance in over two years, his last match taking place at SummerSlam 2023 in a loss to Cody Rhodes.
The Beast Incarnate had been scheduled to return at the 2024 Royal Rumble, but that plan was abruptly shelved following the filing of a high-profile civil lawsuit against Vince McMahon and WWE earlier this year. Within the lawsuit, Lesnar was named—initially as an unnamed figure—and later confirmed to be referenced in the filing, which sent shockwaves throughout the industry. WWE distanced itself from Lesnar at the time, removing him from promotional materials and canceling his Rumble appearance.
Fast forward to SummerSlam 2025, and Lesnar’s return—while met with cheers inside the venue—has reignited controversy across social media platforms. Fans have taken to Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit to voice their disappointment over the company’s decision to reintroduce Lesnar into storylines despite the unresolved legal cloud hanging over his name.
As of now, WWE has not issued a statement regarding Lesnar’s return or the online backlash. It remains to be seen how the company plans to navigate the public relations storm or what role Lesnar will play on upcoming programming.
With Lesnar now firmly back in the spotlight, WWE may find itself walking a fine line between fan reaction in the arena and widespread criticism from viewers at home.
Below is a sample of social media reactions following Lesnar’s return:
WWE Faces Fan Backlash After Brock Lesnar’s Return at SummerSlam
