Brock Lesnar Expected In Chicago Ahead WWE SmackDown, WrestlePalooza

Brock Lesnar is expected to make an appearance on WWE programming soon, potentially on the September 5 episode of SmackDown in Chicago, as reported by multiple sources including Fightful Select and WrestleTalk. Lesnar made a surprising return at SummerSlam 2025 by attacking John Cena, marking his first WWE appearance since being sidelined amid a sexual assault and trafficking lawsuit against Vince McMahon and WWE in 2024. While Lesnar is advertised for the September 12 and 19 SmackDown episodes, there is speculation and internal WWE discussion about his presence on the September 5 show, which is also expected to be John Cena's last SmackDown appearance before he transitions to Raw during his farewell tour. Cena and Lesnar are scheduled for a highly anticipated match at WWE Wrestlepalooza on September 20 in Indianapolis, with WWE reportedly loading up the upcoming SmackDown episodes to build toward the event. Additionally, the September 5 SmackDown will feature other major stars like CM Punk and a potential AJ Lee return, adding to the show's significance. Despite past controversies and a previous ban claim, Lesnar's return signals WWE's intent to capitalize on his star power alongside Cena's farewell run.