Brock Lesnar is expected to be in Chicago for the September 5 edition of Friday Night SmackDown. WWE sources have confirmed Lesnar is scheduled to travel to the city, according to Fightful. John Cena is also slated to appear on what is being reported as potentially his final appearance on the program. Lesnar and Cena are scheduled to compete against each other at Wrestlepalooza, though the match has not yet been officially announced.
While Lesnar’s direct involvement in the broadcast has not been confirmed, his scheduled presence introduces a significant variable to the show.
This anticipated confrontation is the direct result of Lesnar’s return at SummerSlam on August 3. Following a Street Fight between John Cena and Cody Rhodes, Lesnar entered the ring and delivered an F5 to Cena, reigniting their rivalry after a nearly two-year absence from the company for Lesnar.
WWE officials reportedly planned this week’s SmackDown in conjunction with the build to Wrestlepalooza, intentionally stacking the card to heighten interest. The strategy positions the Chicago show as a critical step toward the September premium live event.
Wrestlepalooza is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.