WWE News & Rumor Roundup: Absent star wins big match outside WWE, major name to return alongside Roman Reigns? SummerSlam title match to be announced

Welcome to the latest edition of Sportskeeda Wrestling's WWE Roundup, where we cover the biggest stories from the world of wrestling from the past day. Some big names feature in today's edition, including Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar.

A major WWE Superstar just won a huge match in another promotion, while reports indicate a big SummerSlam title match will be made official soon. It involves a returning star, so get excited!

So, without further ado, let's get into today's stories.

---

#4. AJ Styles defeats Naomichi Marufuji

While he hasn't been seen on WWE television since his 'I Quit' Match against Cody Rhodes at Clash at the Castle, AJ Styles isn't resting.

The Phenomenal One traveled to Tokyo, Japan to face Naomichi Marufuji at Pro Wrestling NOAH's Destination event earlier today. He defeated the Japanese legend after an exhilarating 25 minutes, in the show's co-main event.

It remains to be seen when Styles makes his return to SmackDown. Meanwhile, IYO SKY also had a big match in Tokyo today. She defeated Utami Hayashishita at Marigold Summer Destiny. These two matches have set the platform for future crossovers between WWE and other promotions around the world.

---

#3. Rhea Ripley vs. Liv Morgan is reportedly on for SummerSlam

Rhea Ripley's return on RAW spiced things up in her budding storyline with Liv Morgan, who is flying high as the Women's World Champion. She didn't get physical, though, which raised questions over whether Mami is cleared for in-ring action.

If she isn't already, expect Ripley to be ready by SummerSlam. According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, The Eradicator will indeed challenge Morgan for the Women's World Title at The Biggest Event of the Summer.

However, it isn't known if Rhea Ripley will regain the title. There are also doubts about Dominik Mysterio's loyalty. He could betray Mami and side with Liv Morgan.

---

#2. The Rock to return alongside Roman Reigns?

The Rock and Roman Reigns haven't appeared in WWE since WrestleMania XL weekend, where Cody Rhodes dethroned The Tribal Chief. But could they return together? Vince Russo thinks so.

The former WWE head writer claimed on Sportskeeda Wrestling's Writing With Russo show that The Final Boss should return and help Reigns fight off Solo Sikoa's Bloodline:

"As far as The Rock and The Final Boss, bro, it sounds to me like, bro, the table is set for Reigns to come back, Reigns to be outnumbered, and who does Reigns bring in against The Bloodline? I mean, my God, bro, you talk about blowing the roof off of that place. I mean, to me, right now that [The Rock returning] is a no-brainer right now," said Russo. [3:18 – 3:48]

Roman Reigns is potentially set to return at SummerSlam and confront Solo. However, it remains to be seen if The Rock will be on his side and turn back into a babyface, following such a successful run as a heel opposite Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins.

---

#1. Will Brock Lesnar return to WWE when they move to Netflix?

Image credit: WWE.com

WWE's move to Netflix represents a new dawn for the company, with Monday Night RAW set to be broadcast live on the streaming platform from the start of 2025. Most of their biggest names will be back for it, including The Rock and John Cena.

Dave Meltzer did mention in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that there were question marks over The Undertaker and Brock Lesnar's status following WWE's impending switch to Netflix. The Deadman is still under contract, so he could make several appearances on RAW, but it isn't so simple with The Beast Incarnate.

Lesnar will only be able to return once the company's legal team clears him. He was implied in Janel Grant's lawsuit against Vince McMahon. As a result, it isn't known when, or if, the former UFC fighter will return to the ring.