From the WWE Rumor Mill: Huge update about Brock Lesnar leaving for UFC

What's the story?

For many months now, the WWE Universe have been speculating about Brock Lesnar's future in WWE and whether he is moving over to UFC post-WrestleMania 34.

According to Wrestling Observer (H/T: Cagesideseats), Brock Lesnar is now favouring going to UFC over remaining in WWE.

In case you didn’t know…

Brock Lesnar quit the world of pro wrestling back in 2004 to pursue his other career interests, namely professional football (for NFL) and later, mixed martial arts. After dabbling in both sports for a while, Lesnar returned to WWE in 2012.

However, he didn't return on a full time basis; rather, he only made appearances mostly at pay-per-views and other high stake shows. After renegotiating his WWE contract in 2015, his appearances have become few and far between. Currently he is the Universal Champion, having won the title at WrestleMania 33 against Goldberg.

The heart of the matter

The Beast Incarnate has stated time and time again that his primary interest lies in the world of combat sports. But, a life threatening diverticulitis diagnosis and his growing age have forced Lesnar to stay away from the octagon. However, he did have one fight in UFC in July 2016, while still under a WWE contract.

But according the WOR, it is not likely that WWE will allow Lesnar to do this again. After the fight against Mark Hunt at UFC 200, Lesnar tested positive for a banned substance, thus receiving a one-year suspension and a $250,000 fine from the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

Backstage officials in WWE feel that Lesnar's failed drug test garnered a lot of negative publicity for the company especially since WWE have been outspoken about following a strict Wellness Policy for all its superstars. Due to this, it is unlikely that WWE will allow the Universal Champion to fight for the UFC once again like they did in 2016.

This is apparently the reason why Brock Lesnar is now considering quitting WWE once and for all to go over to UFC.

What's next?

The Beast will defend his Universal Championship against Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 34 in New Orleans in less than a month.

Reigns is strongly favoured to come out on top in the bout, thus winning his third consecutive main event at WrestleMania. This will be his fourth appeareance in a row in the main event of the marquee show.

Author's take

I have previously explained in detail why I feel Brock Lesnar will stay on in WWE, even if he leaves for UFC temporarily.

That being said, if WWE management do not allow Lesnar to appear for UFC while still under contract in WWE, he might just end up leaving the company for good.