Brock Lesnar stepped into the ring on August 3, electrifying WWE fans at SummerSlam 2025 in New Jersey. This marked his first appearance in two years, having last graced the same event in 2023.
However, his return comes amid serious allegations. Lesnar is named in a sexual misconduct lawsuit filed by former WWE employee Janel Grant, who claims that Vince McMahon, a former WWE executive, instructed her to create “personalized sexual content” for Lesnar.
While McMahon has denied these allegations, Lesnar has remained silent on the matter. An attorney representing McMahon characterized the lawsuit as a “publicity stunt,” dismissing it as part of an ongoing smear campaign.
In January 2024, Grant's federal lawsuit against McMahon and the WWE included claims that McMahon offered her to Lesnar as a sexual partner. McMahon’s legal team has consistently labeled the allegations as desperate fabrications.
Grant further alleged that McMahon arranged for Lesnar to travel to Connecticut for a sexual encounter that never occurred. Notably, Lesnar was not named as a defendant in the lawsuit and has not publicly addressed the claims.
The lawsuit also alleges that McMahon shared photos of Grant with Lesnar, suggesting that the wrestler “likes what he sees.” Grant worked at WWE from 2019 until 2022, claiming she met McMahon while job-hunting after caring for her parents.
She alleged that McMahon offered her employment contingent upon engaging in a physical relationship with him. Following the revelation of their relationship to McMahon’s wife, Grant claims she lost her job to prevent further scandal.
Lesnar’s absence from WWE matches began in late 2023, but he was not officially banned following the lawsuit's filing. In July 2025, UFC heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier hinted at Lesnar's troubles, stating on “The Mighty Cast” that he was on a banned list due to unspecified issues.
Lesnar’s return at SummerSlam saw him attack John Cena, who had just lost to Cody Rhodes. This unexpected moment came as the event was concluding, reigniting excitement among fans.
A spokesperson for Grant criticized WWE’s decision to allow Lesnar back into the ring, calling it an “attempt to sweep misconduct under the rug.” They emphasized that abuse has been tolerated within WWE and expressed hope for accountability.
“This attempt to sweep misconduct under the rug will backfire,” the spokesperson stated. “We look forward to the full set of facts coming out in a court of law where they belong.”
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). For domestic violence support, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. For human trafficking assistance, reach out to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
