Brock Lesnar’s prolonged absence from WWE programming has been a hot topic among wrestling fans and insiders alike. Recent remarks by former UFC champion Daniel Cormier on Demetrious Johnson’s MIGHTYcast podcast added fuel to speculation when he claimed Lesnar is currently on WWE’s “banned list” due to undisclosed trouble. However, new insights from Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s Dave Meltzer and corroborating reports clarify the true reasons behind Lesnar’s status and shed light on WWE’s current stance[1][4].
What’s Behind Brock Lesnar Being ‘Banned’ in WWE?
During his candid interview, Daniel Cormier cryptically stated, “Brock is on the banned list right now… Brock got into so much trouble,” leaving fans and commentators puzzled about the nature of his alleged misconduct. Cormier declined to specify details on-air but hinted it was something widely known among insiders[1].
Despite the intrigue, Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer provided key clarification that Lesnar’s so-called “banned” status is less about disciplinary issues and more a corporate legal precaution. According to Meltzer, Lesnar’s name surfaced in the high-profile Janel Grant sex trafficking lawsuit filed against WWE and Vince McMahon earlier this year. Though Brock is not a defendant, WWE’s legal team reportedly barred him from appearing on screen to avoid any potential complications while the case is ongoing[4].
This legal strategy directly impacted Lesnar’s creative use in WWE storylines and event lineups. Originally slated to return at the 2024 Royal Rumble with a program involving Dominik Mysterio and a WrestleMania 40 showdown against GUNTHER, WWE abruptly pulled him from all plans as the lawsuit unfolded. Bron Breakker was inserted as a last-minute Royal Rumble replacement, and all narratives featuring Lesnar were scrapped[4].
Official WWE Commentary on Lesnar’s Situation
WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H has addressed Lesnar’s absence on multiple occasions, offering measured insight. In an August 2024 Daily Mail interview, Triple H remarked:
“You’d have to ask Brock Lesnar that. Brock does his own thing. He’s up in Canada, watching his kids play hockey and enjoying life. If and when he decides that he would like to do something, we’d be open to the conversation. But we’ll see.”
Earlier that year, Triple H stressed that Lesnar was not gone from the company, emphasizing his unique autonomy within WWE’s framework[3].
Background: The Lesnar-Cormier Connection
The discussion about Lesnar’s WWE status took a public turn during the MIGHTYcast podcast with Demetrious Johnson, where Cormier and Johnson revisited a long-rumored potential MMA showdown between Lesnar and Cormier that never materialized. Cormier expressed surprise mixed with frustration, stating that despite earlier teases, a fight never came to fruition since Lesnar re-signed with WWE instead of returning to UFC competition[1][2].
When Johnson floated the possibility of a WWE battle between the two icons, Cormier dropped the revelation of Lesnar’s “banned” status, deepening wrestling and MMA fans’ curiosity[1].
Wrestling Fans Hold Candlelight Vigil for Hulk Hogan
In a touching display of fan loyalty and nostalgia, several groups of wrestling enthusiasts recently organized candlelight vigils honoring Hulk Hogan, celebrating his lasting impact on the wrestling industry. These events featured heartfelt speeches and moments of remembrance, underlining Hogan’s iconic legacy amid his own controversial past[original article’s referenced content].
What’s Next for Brock Lesnar and WWE?
At present, Brock Lesnar’s WWE future remains uncertain and heavily influenced by ongoing legal considerations due to his association with the Janel Grant lawsuit. WWE’s cautious approach reflects an intent to avoid legal entanglements while maintaining operational flexibility.
Industry sources suggest that as long as the legal environment remains unsettled, Lesnar’s return to WWE programming will be on indefinite hold. However, insiders close to Lesnar suggest he continues training and remains open to a future comeback once the legal issues are resolved[4][3].
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Sources:
- Daniel Cormier’s interview on Demetrious Johnson’s MIGHTYcast podcast (July 2025)[1][2]
- Dave Meltzer and Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports (July 2025)[4]
- WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H interviews, Daily Mail (2024)[3]
- Fightful and Wrestling Headlines coverage on WWE creative and legal developments[4]
According to a WWE insider, “Lesnar’s status is less about punishment and more about legal caution. WWE wants to avoid any risks while the lawsuit is active, but Brock is very much in consideration for future storylines once the dust settles.”
As fans continue to debate Lesnar’s future and honor wrestling legends like Hulk Hogan, WWE remains at a pivotal crossroads balancing legal challenges and the craving for marquee superstars in their evolving product.