MINNEAPOLIS — An iconic era in combat sports has officially drawn to a close. WWE legend Brock Lesnar has confirmed his retirement from professional wrestling, bringing an end to one of the most dominant and decorated careers in sports entertainment history.

The 49-year-old former WWE Champion and UFC Heavyweight Champion broke the news during an emotional appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, following his marquee clash against rising powerhouse Oba Femi in a grueling Hell in a Cell match at SummerSlam 2026 in his home state of Minnesota.

"I'm here today to let the world and everybody know that I am retired, and I wanted to say a big thank you to everybody," Lesnar said during the interview. "Saturday was a very emotional day for me... That’s it for me in the squared circle and for everything else, too."

Passing the Torch at SummerSlam

The speculation surrounding Lesnar’s future reached a fever pitch following Night 1 of SummerSlam at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Main-eventing inside the terrifying steel structure, Lesnar and Oba Femi delivered a physical, collision-heavy bout that culminated in Femi securing a decisive victory over "The Beast Incarnate."

In the immediate aftermath of the bell, Lesnar offered a poignant, uncharacteristic moment of humility. He embraced Femi, raised his opponent's hand in victory, and declared Femi as "the future" while referring to himself as "the past." Shortly after the event, WWE moved Lesnar’s profile to the alumni section of its official website, signaling the end of his active tenure.

Longtime rival Roman Reigns shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, reflecting on the historical rivalry that helped define WWE’s modern era.

"I'm very grateful to have had that time to be under his learning tree, to be able to pick his brain, and to see how he operates," Reigns said. "I appreciate everything you did for me, Brock... It was an absolute pleasure. Have fun in the woods."

Life After the Ring

Known for guarding his privacy fiercely outside the arena, Lesnar outlined his post-wrestling plans, emphasizing that his focus now shifts entirely to his family and life on his farm.

"I got some hunting lined up, and I got two boys in hockey," Lesnar shared. "I’m gonna support their dreams as long as that’s feasible, and my daughter—she’s got her eye on the 2028 Olympics. I'm just gonna spend some more time with the kids, in the woods, and just reap what I've sown."

Lesnar also dismissed any speculation regarding potential crossover fights or celebrity boxing matches, making it clear that his athletic career is permanently behind him.

From his electrifying debut in 2002 to his reign as an unstoppable attraction across combat sports, Brock Lesnar leaves behind a legacy as one of the most imposing physical forces the ring has ever seen.