As the WWE calendar inches closer to 2026, speculation is mounting about who will be the centerpiece of the company’s biggest events. According to wrestling veteran Bully Ray, the entire landscape of WWE could once again revolve around one of its most dominant part-time stars: Brock Lesnar.
In a recent episode of Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray joined co-host Dave LaGreca to discuss the shifting dynamics within WWE’s creative direction. Both men agreed that Lesnar’s return to the spotlight most notably his dominant victory over John Cena at WrestlePalooza wasn’t just a nostalgic moment, but a calculated move to set the stage for a much larger narrative in 2026.
Lesnar’s Return Signals a New Era
Brock Lesnar’s return to WWE in August, culminating in his one-sided victory over John Cena, sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. While many expected Cena to be given a more dignified send-off, Lesnar’s overwhelming performance was interpreted by insiders as a deliberate push to reestablish him as an unstoppable force.
“Brock says there is nobody out there who can do anything about it,” Bully Ray explained on the show. “And then Gunther’s music hits, and that’s why John Cena let Brock destroy him because that’s starting to propel Brock to where we need him to be, so Gunther can be the hero coming back.”
This storyline, according to Ray, is designed to elevate not only Lesnar but also the next generation of WWE talent. By positioning Lesnar as an unbeatable force, WWE is creating a vacuum that younger stars can fill—either by challenging him directly or by stepping into the spotlight after he’s finally dethroned.
The Royal Rumble and WrestleMania 42: Lesnar’s 2026 Roadmap
Multiple reports, including those from WrestleVotes Radio and Bodyslam.net, confirm that Lesnar is internally listed for both the 2026 Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia and WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas. His face is already featured prominently on the official WrestleMania 42 poster, signaling WWE’s intent to make him a central figure in their biggest events of the year.
According to a WWE insider, “Lesnar’s contract and creative plans are being mapped out with the expectation that he’ll be featured in major storylines leading up to WrestleMania. The company sees him as a draw, and they want to maximize his impact while he’s still at the top of his game.”
The Royal Rumble match itself could serve as the perfect setup for a WrestleMania showdown. If a rising star like Bron Breakker were to eliminate Lesnar, it would plant the seeds for a passing-of-the-torch moment, setting up a dream match for the main event in Las Vegas.
The Gunther Factor: The Hero WWE Needs?
While Bron Breakker is often mentioned as a potential opponent for Lesnar, the current betting odds and insider chatter point to another name: Gunther. The “Ring General” is the clear favorite to face Lesnar at WrestleMania 42, with odds of -250, according to BetOnline. Jacob Fatu and Bron Breakker follow closely behind.
Bully Ray believes Gunther’s return could be the catalyst for a new era in WWE. “Brock knows he can’t stick around forever,” Ray said. “He’s going to want to come back when the time is right and do certain things where he can make his money and somebody can benefit from it in the long run.”
Gunther’s absence from WWE TV since his loss to CM Punk at SummerSlam has only fueled speculation about his return. Rumors suggest he could face John Cena at Saturday Night’s Main Event in December, though WWE has yet to confirm the match.
The Passing of the Torch: What’s Next for WWE?
The idea of a “passing of the torch” moment has been a recurring theme in WWE’s storytelling. With Lesnar’s dominance reestablished, the company is now faced with the challenge of finding a new face to carry the torch into the next generation.
Bron Breakker, with his size, speed, and raw intensity, is often cited as a potential successor. A Lesnar vs. Breakker match at WrestleMania 42 would have all the ingredients for a true blockbuster, but the odds currently favor Gunther.
According to a source close to WWE’s creative team, “The plan is to use Lesnar as a bridge between the old guard and the new. He’s the perfect foil for someone like Gunther or Breakker, and his presence will help elevate whoever steps up to challenge him.”
The Bigger Picture: Lesnar’s Legacy and WWE’s Future
Brock Lesnar’s return to WWE isn’t just about one match or one event it’s about shaping the future of the company. By positioning him as an unbeatable force, WWE is creating opportunities for younger talent to rise to the occasion and prove themselves on the grandest stage.
As Bully Ray put it, “Brock does everything for a reason, and I believe this next reason will be for Gunther. Brock knows that he can’t— he’s not gonna stick around forever. Brock is going to want to come back when the time is right and do certain things where he can make his money and somebody can benefit from it in the long run.”
With the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania 42 on the horizon, all eyes will be on Lesnar and the stars who dare to challenge him. Whether it’s Gunther, Breakker, or another rising talent, the next chapter in WWE’s story is set to be written by the Beast Incarnate himself.