New reports point to 2026 as a potential final chapter
Summary
– WWE is rumored to be discussing a retirement run for Brock Lesnar in 2026
– SummerSlam 2026 in Minnesota has been mentioned as a possible endpoint
– Lesnar is already advertised for the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania in 2026
Speculation about Brock Lesnar’s long-term future in WWE has intensified following recent comments and industry reports. During an appearance on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, John Cena reflected on his recent loss to Lesnar and suggested that his role was to build Lesnar for whoever eventually defeats him. Cena added that Lesnar could be nearing retirement, possibly at a show in Minnesota.
SummerSlam 2026 is scheduled to take place at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis on August 1 and 2. The location has fueled further discussion, as Minnesota has deep ties to Lesnar’s personal and athletic history. Lesnar built his amateur wrestling reputation in the state before becoming one of WWE’s most dominant figures.
Dave Meltzer addressed the situation in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. He reported hearing that WWE has plans in place for retirement runs involving Lesnar, AJ Styles, and potentially Chris Jericho. Meltzer noted that while Styles has publicly confirmed his intention to retire in 2026, plans for Lesnar are still not locked in.
Lesnar returned to WWE at SummerSlam earlier this year and has since competed twice. He defeated John Cena at Wrestlepalooza and later joined the winning men’s team at Survivor Series WarGames. WWE President Nick Khan recently stated that the company is honored to have Lesnar back.
At 48 years old, Lesnar remains featured in WWE’s plans. He is currently advertised for both the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania in 2026, keeping the door open for a major final run if the retirement rumors prove to be true.
