As WWE heads into this Saturday’s WrestlePalooza premium live event, broadcast partner ESPN has addressed the controversy surrounding Brock Lesnar’s return. On a recent media call, network executives stressed that the decision to feature Lesnar lies solely with WWE, noting the company holds “complete creative control” over its product and talent decisions.
The clarification comes amid ongoing backlash tied to Lesnar’s reemergence at SummerSlam. His involvement has been scrutinized due to allegations raised in the Janel Grant lawsuit against former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon.
The lawsuit accuses McMahon of serious misconduct, including s—xual trafficking, and claims he offered Grant’s s—xual services to Lesnar during contract negotiations. While Lesnar is not named as a defendant, his association with the case has drawn heavy criticism.
After Lesnar’s return following more than a year away from WWE, Grant’s attorney condemned the move, accusing the company of trying to “sweep misconduct under the rug.”
With ESPN’s remarks, the network has placed clear distance between itself and the decision, leaving accountability for Lesnar’s featured role squarely with WWE as WrestlePalooza approaches.