In the lead-up to WWE Wrestlepalooza, ESPN executives clarified their position regarding Brock Lesnar’s surprise return to WWE, emphatically stating that ESPN had no involvement or say in Lesnar’s booking or participation. This clarification came during a WWE-ESPN joint media call held on September 17, 2025, amidst swirling rumors and controversy around Lesnar’s comeback ahead of his marquee match against John Cena.

Brock Lesnar’s WWE return was one of the most talked-about moments at last month’s SummerSlam. After a two-year absence from WWE programming, Lesnar shocked fans by emerging at the show’s conclusion and delivering his signature F5 to Cena. This appearance set up their high-profile Wrestlepalooza showdown, which also marks the kickoff of WWE’s first premium live event streaming on ESPN as part of their newly activated five-year partnership[2][3].

Despite the excitement, Lesnar’s comeback has been clouded by legal controversy, as his name appears in the ongoing Janel Grant lawsuit filed against former WWE chairman Vince McMahon and WWE itself in early 2024. While Lesnar is not a defendant in the lawsuit, his association has raised questions about his role and whether ESPN had a say in allowing him to feature on their platform[1][7].

ESPN Executives: WWE Holds Full Creative Control

During the media call, Jon Alba of Sports Illustrated directly asked Matt Kenny, ESPN’s Programming and Acquisitions Lead, about the network’s involvement in WWE’s talent choices, specifically regarding Brock Lesnar. Kenny responded unequivocally, emphasizing that WWE retains complete creative control over the selection of talent for its shows, and ESPN acts solely as the content distributor.

Kenny stated:
“Our relationship with WWE is such that they have creative control. We’re distributors of the events. It’s not all that dissimilar from other rights holder relationships we have. For WWE, they retain creative control, which we are absolutely fine with because they have built an incredible business over a long period. I don’t need to be opining on scripts or creative decisions for WWE. We are just excited about what they do and how they do it.”[2][3]

This stance was reaffirmed by other ESPN executives present, who clarified that the network did not request Brock Lesnar’s inclusion on the Wrestlepalooza card, nor did they engage in discussions with WWE regarding specific talent bookings. Their role is limited to making the content available through ESPN’s platforms, including ESPN streaming, Disney+, and Hulu under the ESPN Unlimited plan[3][6].

Brock Lesnar’s Controversial Return: WWE’s Decision Alone

Sources close to WWE confirm that Brock Lesnar’s return and prominent placement on Wrestlepalooza was strictly a WWE creative decision and not influenced by ESPN or any third party. Wrestling insiders note that WWE is fully aware of the complications surrounding Lesnar’s name being included in the Grant lawsuit but chose to proceed based on Lesnar’s star power and drawing capability.

A WWE insider told Wrestling Inc:
“Brock is a huge star who brings mainstream attention and buzz. WWE believes his involvement elevates Wrestlepalooza and viewership on ESPN. This was WWE’s call, independent of ESPN’s preferences or concerns.”

Despite the legal tangles, WWE appears confident that Lesnar’s comeback will generate significant fan interest as he squares off against Cena in what many expect to be a blockbuster main event[1][2].

ESPN’s Strategic Role in WWE Partnership

The launch of the WWE-ESPN partnership, which had an accelerated start this year, marks a significant expansion for both companies. ESPN now distributes WWE’s premium live events on multiple platforms, reaching new audiences and boosting accessibility.

Matt Kenny shared insight into ESPN’s business strategy:
“We don’t interfere with WWE’s creative processes, but we’re excited to provide a platform for their compelling entertainment. WWE’s product and storytelling resonate with their fans, and we’re thrilled to be part of that experience.”[3][4]

This partnership also involves collaboration without overlap with other rights holders such as Peacock, ensuring ESPN’s focus remains firmly on content distribution rather than content creation or creative influence[3].

Fan and Media Reactions

The wrestling community has been abuzz with speculation about whether ESPN facilitated Lesnar’s return or pressured WWE to include him on Wrestlepalooza. However, multiple wrestling media outlets including Fightful and Ringside News have highlighted ESPN’s firm denial of any say in the matter, which aligns with the network’s standard practice across sports and entertainment content deals[2][6][8].

Fightful’s coverage quotes Kenny extensively, giving fans confidence in ESPN’s transparency. Wrestling fans can expect more big WWE moments on ESPN, but creative decisions—particularly involving controversial figures like Lesnar—remain a WWE internal matter[2].

What’s Next for Brock Lesnar and WWE?

Lesnar’s match with John Cena at Wrestlepalooza promises to be one of the biggest draws this year, showcasing ESPN’s commitment to featuring marquee “Beast Incarnate” moments as part of their expanding WWE portfolio[1].

For WWE, managing the balance between star power and potential PR fallout continues to be a delicate dance. Meanwhile, ESPN’s clear message underlines the network’s role as a broadcast partner rather than a creative stakeholder.

According to sources close to Cody Rhodes and WWE’s backstage team, plans for Lesnar’s usage post-Wrestlepalooza will continue to be closely monitored, with WWE weighing fan reactions and business outcomes before deciding his long-term role and appearances[2].

In summary, ESPN executives have openly stated they do not control or influence WWE’s talent decisions, including Brock Lesnar’s return for Wrestlepalooza. WWE retains full creative autonomy while ESPN acts strictly as a distributor under their multi-year content deal. Lesnar’s comeback remains a WWE booking decision amid ongoing legal complexities, with ESPN positioned as a partner excited to bring WWE’s premium product to a wider streaming audience[2][3][6].

Sources: WWE.com, Fightful, Sports Illustrated, Wrestling Inc., Ringside News, Sportskeeda