Friday's Loaded SmackDown Could Include Second Surprise Return

According to Fightful Select, Lesnar has been scheduled to travel to the city ahead of the live broadcast from the Allstate Arena. WWE sources noted that he was “discussed as a possibility for the show,” fueling speculation that fans may see “The Beast Incarnate” back on SmackDown for the first time in months.

Lesnar's return at SummerSlam earlier this month was huge and unexpected moment. Few, if anyone expected his comeback after a two-year absence. He had been on the sidelines after being linked to the Vince McMahon sexual assault allegations. He was cleared by WWE"s legal team, but the company kept his return quiet. When he attacked John Cena, his return was completely shocking.

At the same time, he seemed to reigniting one of WWE’s most storied feuds. The clash between John Cena and Lesnar will go down in WWE history as one of the most memorable. The attack has led to a match between the two at the inaugural WrestlePalooza premium live event on September 20 in Indianapolis.

WWE must be bringing in Lesnar on the final Cena SmackDown to promote that match.

SmackDown On Friday Is Stacked

Beyond Lesnar and Cena, this week's SmackDown is already loaded with star power. CM Punk, Drew McIntyre, Randy Orton, and AJ Lee are all scheduled, with Lee’s appearance marking her long-awaited return to WWE television. WWE is reportedly stacking the show intentionally, using it as a major lead-in to WrestlePalooza, which they’ve similarly packed with marquee attractions.

With Cena’s farewell looming, AJ Lee’s return, and the possibility of Brock Lesnar shaking things up once again, SmackDown in Chicago could go down as one of the biggest episodes of the year. Last week's SmackDown was one of the lower rated shows in some time. It scored its lowest audience and 18-49 demo rating since returning to USA last year for the Labor Day weekend show.

WWE seems to be prepping for a bounce-back show.