Brock Lesnar’s absence from WWE programming has fueled rumors and speculation for months, but recent statements and insider reports finally shed light on why WWE’s former dominant force remains off the air. UFC legend Daniel Cormier sparked renewed debate when he revealed on Demetrious Johnson’s podcast that Lesnar is currently on a WWE “banned list,” alleging he “got into so much trouble.” However, new information from Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s Dave Meltzer clarifies the situation: Lesnar’s exclusion is primarily legal, tied to the Janel Grant lawsuit implicating WWE and Vince McMahon, and not due to any fresh disciplinary action[1][3][4].

Daniel Cormier’s Podcast Comments Stir Speculation

During an episode of the Mighty podcast, Daniel Cormier, who has a history of rivalry with Brock Lesnar, stated bluntly that Brock is on a banned list within WWE. His comments hinted at some off-screen issues without elaborating:

“Brock is on the banned list right now… Oh, Brock got into so much trouble. You know what Brock did? I ain’t telling you on-air what Brock did. Brock is in so much trouble.”[1]

Cormier’s remarks, while dramatic, offered no specific details but reignited fan discussion about Lesnar’s standing with WWE, especially since Lesnar has been notably absent from WWE programming since August 2023, following his loss to Cody Rhodes at SummerSlam[2].

Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer Provides Crucial Context

Dave Meltzer, reported as one of wrestling’s most reliable insiders, provided a more grounded perspective on Lesnar’s status. According to Meltzer, Lesnar’s WWE absence is not due to new misconduct or backstage trouble but is a direct result of legal precautions following Lesnar’s association with the Janel Grant lawsuit filed earlier in 2025. This lawsuit, naming Vince McMahon and WWE, alleges serious allegations of sex trafficking and misconduct. While Lesnar himself is not a defendant in the suit, his name allegedly came up, prompting WWE’s legal team at TKO Group Holdings to prohibit his use on WWE programming as a safeguard[3][4].

Meltzer emphasized:

“There is nothing new on the Lesnar front. WWE legal made the call at the time Janel Grant filed her lawsuit to not allow Lesnar to be used.”[4]

This explains why Brock was pulled abruptly from the 2024 Royal Rumble lineup and removed from ongoing creative plans, which were initially rumored to include high-profile feuds leading into WrestleMania 40. The scrapped WWE storylines would have featured Lesnar battling Dominik Mysterio and culminating in a marquee clash with GUNTHER at WrestleMania[3].

Official WWE Position and Comments from Triple H

Triple H, WWE’s Chief Content Officer, has offered ambiguous but respectful comments regarding Lesnar’s status. In an interview with the Daily Mail in August 2024, he 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.”[2]

Despite Lesnar’s prolonged hiatus, there has been no official statement from WWE declaring a permanent ban or severed ties. The company remains silent on all specifics related to legal complications, adhering instead to the policies set by parent company TKO’s legal department.

What This Means for Brock Lesnar’s WWE Future

The critical takeaway is that Brock Lesnar’s current “banned” designation is more a product of legal caution than disciplinary action. It appears WWE’s decision to hold him off television is purely a risk management move amid ongoing litigation rather than an expulsion from the brand. There is no public indication of any new misbehavior or conflict between Lesnar and WWE management beyond this context[3][4].

Nonetheless, fans hoping for an imminent return must remain patient. With WWE’s future programming plans continuously evolving, Lesnar’s return depends on the legal situation’s resolution and mutual agreement. Sources close to the company suggest the door is not closed for Brock but remains firmly controlled by legal counsel[2].

Wrestling Community Reacts: Candlelight Vigil for Hulk Hogan

In other emotionally charged fan moments, multiple wrestling supporters recently held a candlelight vigil for WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan. The vigil highlighted the passionate connection the community maintains with its legends amid ongoing controversies and changing eras. Videos of the poignant gathering circulated on social media platforms, reflecting the profound respect Hogan still commands despite his complex legacy[1].

Final Thoughts

Brock Lesnar’s situation highlights the increasingly complex interplay between legal matters and professional wrestling entertainment in today’s landscape. While rumors and speculation around “banned lists” capture headlines, verified insider reports confirm that WWE’s decision is a cautious legal posture linked to serious external lawsuits rather than internal disciplinary issues.

For now, Brock Lesnar remains a fascinating and unresolved chapter in WWE’s unfolding story, with fans and industry insiders alike watching closely for any sign of return. Meanwhile, the wrestling community honors its icons like Hulk Hogan, demonstrating wrestling’s enduring ability to unite fans through triumph, controversy, and respect.

Sources: WWE.com, Fightful, Demetrious Johnson’s Mighty Podcast, Wrestling Observer Newsletter (Dave Meltzer), Sportskeeda, SportBible, PWMania, EWrestlingNews