WWE News & Rumor Roundup - Former world champion's return announced, Doubts raised over Brock Lesnar, Interest in major AEW star

It's time for another stacked edition of the WWE News & Rumor Roundup, which begins with an announcement regarding the return of a popular superstar.

Fans have wondered about his whereabouts for a while, but Brock Lesnar remains absent from TV. A Hall of Famer has raised doubts about The Beast Incarnate's future as a pro wrestler.

Several contractual updates are also included, with one particular report confirming WWE's interest in signing a well-established AEW star.

On that note, here are the day's top stories:

---

#1. AJ Styles returning to SmackDown

A lot has been said regarding AJ Styles' status over the past few weeks. A report from Fightful revealed that the Phenomenal One was not injured and just waiting to be utilized on television.

It was stated that people within the industry feel Styles' contract expires later this year or early 2025, leading many to speculate about a potential move to AEW.

Triple H and his team have caught wind of the rumors and instantly decided to get Styles back.

As announced, Styles will return on the October 4, episode of SmackDown - his first appearance since Clash at the Castle Scotland.

The veteran superstar completed his world title feud with Cody Rhodes and even worked the Japan tour before going on an unexplained hiatus. For those seemingly worried about his WWE future, Styles' return next week will ease some fears.

---

#2. Eric Bischoff comments on Brock Lesnar's WWE status

Since the lawsuit against Vince McMahon led to the ouster of the former boss, Brock Lesnar has not been associated with WWE.

The former Universal Champion was referenced in the lawsuit and has been kept away from the ring due to obvious legal issues. A few plans might have been pitched for him, but Brock Lesnar's wrestling future remains uncertain.

While speaking on the 83 Weeks podcast, Eric Bischoff reckoned Brock Lesnar might not even have the desire to wrestle anymore, considering how much money the Beast Incarnate has made throughout his career.

Bischoff said that beyond wrestling, Lesnar might have many other things to do, and he's reached a stage where he doesn't really need to wrestle again.

The former General Manager explained:

"No way to know, man. Brock's unique. Brock's got enough money, and he could live the next three lives. His kids will never be able to spend the money that Brock has made, and beyond the money Brock has farming. That's his joy, that's his passion, and that's where Brock is at peace, based on what I've heard. I don't know Brock that well, and man, I don't know he doesn't need to, so it's a question of does he want to, and at some point you just don't want to anymore."

Brock Lesnar was once WWE's go-to superstar for marquee matches and a proven draw, who, as things stand, might never even return to the squared circle.

---

#3. WWE is open to getting back Malakai Black

The House of Black member's AEW career hasn't exactly taken off as many would have expected. Injury problems and a stacked roster meant that Malakai Black didn't have the desired impact as a solo superstar.

Dr. Chris Featherstone was the first to report about WWE's interest in re-signing Malakai Black after his current AEW deal ends. It was noted that he could get a big push if he chose to return, and people within the company, too, were pushing for it to happen.

Dave Meltzer's update from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter confirmed the earlier report, and it was additionally stated that Black attempted to give his notice when Triple H first took control of the WWE creative team in 2022.

Black's AEW contract isn't expected to end until 2025, and there is a possibility Tony Khan will add the injury time to his deal. Malakai reuniting with his wife, Zelina Vega, in WWE was another potential reason why the AEW star might legitimately jump ship, and it would be interesting to see what happens in the upcoming months.