Brock Lesnar has been absent from WWE for over a year, and his name has been linked to controversy due to the Janel Grant lawsuit against former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon. With WrestleMania 41 approaching, speculation about The Beast Incarnate’s return has intensified. Wrestling veterans Dutch Mantell and Bill Apter have recently shared their thoughts on whether Lesnar could step back into a WWE ring.
Brock Lesnar’s WWE Absence and Controversy Explained
Lesnar last competed at SummerSlam 2023, where he lost to Cody Rhodes in a memorable match. Since then, he has remained off WWE television, with no official explanation from the company.
However, in January 2024, an amendment to the Janel Grant lawsuit alleged that McMahon used Grant “as a sexual pawn to entice world-famous wrestling talent and to keep Brock Lesnar under contract with WWE.”
Due to this ongoing controversy, Lesnar has stayed away from WWE programming, and there have been no official plans announced for his return.
Dutch Mantell Believes Lesnar’s Return Needs More Time
On his Story Time with Dutch Mantell podcast, wrestling veteran Dutch Mantell was asked whether he believes Brock Lesnar could return to WWE despite the lawsuit controversy.
Mantell suggested that while a comeback is possible, WWE might wait a little longer before bringing him back:
“Hard to say, but I think probably, I think it needs a little more time. But I think people kinda forgot about it. If they don’t do anything to Vince [McMahon], I don’t think they’re gonna do anything to Brock [Lesnar] because there’s not really any bad stuff that’s come out about Brock except he was considered by Vince to be a beneficiary of Vince’s, you know, generosity. And I don’t think his name has been mentioned in doing any kind of crazy crazy stuff. So, I think he could come back without a lot of problems.”
Mantell’s comments suggest that Lesnar’s absence is more of a precautionary measure, and if WWE does not take any major action against McMahon, there may be no reason to keep Lesnar away either.
Hall of Famer Bill Apter Hints at a Possible Lesnar Return
While Lesnar has remained off television, a recent photo of him in better shape with a trimmed beard has led to speculation that he might be preparing for a return.
NWA Hall of Famer Bill Apter addressed Lesnar’s physical transformation, hinting that the 47-year-old could be getting ready for a WWE comeback:
“It’s hard for me to say if he will make a comeback. But again, there’s always that possibility of a surprise with someone like Brock Lesnar.”
Lesnar has been known to make shock returns, often appearing at WrestleMania or SummerSlam as a major attraction.
Triple H’s Stance on Lesnar’s WWE Future
In 2024, Triple H stated that he would be open to speaking with Lesnar if the former WWE Champion wanted to return. However, no official talks between Lesnar and WWE have been confirmed.
Given Lesnar’s history of blockbuster matches, WWE could be waiting for the right moment to reintroduce him.
Could Brock Lesnar Return at WrestleMania 41?
With WrestleMania 41 approaching, there is always a possibility that Lesnar could return in some capacity. While his WWE future remains uncertain, his physical transformation and wrestling veterans’ opinions suggest that a return is not out of the question.
Whether WWE chooses to bring him back soon or waits until the controversy fades, fans will be watching closely for any signs of Brock Lesnar’s next move.
FAQs
Why is Brock Lesnar not in WWE?
Brock Lesnar has been absent from WWE since SummerSlam 2023. His name was mentioned in the Janel Grant lawsuit, which may have led to his extended break.
Will Brock Lesnar return to WWE?
Wrestling veterans Dutch Mantell and Bill Apter believe Lesnar could return, but WWE may be waiting for the controversy to die down.
What did Dutch Mantell say about Brock Lesnar’s return?
Dutch Mantell stated that Lesnar could return without major problems but may need more time away due to the controversy surrounding Vince McMahon.
Has Brock Lesnar been seen in public recently?
Yes, a recent photo showed Lesnar in great shape with a trimmed beard, leading to speculation that he is preparing for a WWE return.
Did Triple H comment on Brock Lesnar’s WWE future?
Yes, Triple H previously stated that he would be open to discussions with Lesnar if the former champion wanted to return.
