Several legends within the wrestling industry are winding down their careers. John Cena is set to retire from in-ring competition tomorrow, AJ Styles and Chris Jericho are reportedly not far behind and now Brock Lesnar's name is being tossed around as another performer who may be readying himself for a post-wrestling career.
The rumors began when John Cena earlier this week indicated that his loss to Lesnar at Wrestlepalooza was to build up Brock for whomever ends up beating him in the future, with a Lesnar retirement looming on the horizon. Cena mentioned that Lesnar could be looking at retirement following a show in Minnesota, which could very easily be SummerSlam 2026 at US Bank Stadium. Lesnar shared much success in Minnesota as an amateur wrestler.
In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer noted that he's been hearing that WWE has tentative working retirement pans for Lesnar, Styles and Jericho if he chooses to sign with the company. Styels has already gone on record to state that he will be stepping away at some point in 2026 while Jericho is set to become a free agent within weeks and has been eyeing a return to WWE for a final run.
As for Lesnar, Meltzer shared that there is a story going around that he wants to retire at SummerSlam 2026 and that the rumor has been circulating for at least a month within WWE circles. He cautioned that the only one "locked in" is Styles who as stated above, has clearly indicated that 2026 will be his last year.
For now, Lesnar is scheduled for both Royal Rumble and WrestleMania 42 next year and WWE President Nick Khan has said the company is honored to have him back, welcoming him with open arms.
