Five years ago today, Brock Lesnar made his shocking return to WWE at SummerSlam, confronting Roman Reigns

Five years ago today, WWE delivered one of the most shocking and unforgettable returns in SummerSlam history as Brock Lesnar made his jaw-dropping return to WWE! After Roman Reigns successfully defeated John Cena to retain the Universal Championship in the main event of SummerSlam 2021, Reigns stood tall with Paul Heyman by his side, believing he had once again conquered his biggest challenger. But just when it seemed the night was over, the atmosphere completely changed when The Beast Incarnate, Brock Lesnar, made his way to the ring. Lesnar had been absent from WWE for more than a year after losing the WWE Championship to Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 36. With many believing that his WWE career could have been over, absolutely nobody expected him to return that night — especially immediately after Roman Reigns' victory. Brock stepped into the ring and came face-to-face with Roman Reigns, creating an unforgettable staredown between two of WWE's biggest powerhouses. The reaction from the WWE Universe said it all: Brock Lesnar was back, and he was coming for Roman Reigns. What followed would eventually lead to one of the most memorable rivalries of the modern era. But the moment that started it all remains iconic — five years later, Brock Lesnar's SummerSlam 2021 return is still one of WWE's greatest “nobody saw that coming” moments.