Brock Lesnar, who was advertised for tonight’s broadcast and was expected to open Smackdown, is no longer appearing on the show.
A couple of hours ago, multiple insiders reported that Lesnar walked out of the TD Garden arena after the announcement of Vince McMahon’s retirment was communicated. McMahon was never in Boston for the show and Lesnar, like pretty much every other talent, had no idea that Vince was leaving WWE.
Instead of Lesnar opening Smackdown, it was Stephanie McMahon who launched the broadcast. The WWE.COM preview of Smackdown, which had Lesnar all over it, was also removed.
His status for SummerSlam remains unknown with one week to go with many believe he might not return without Vince at the helm.
The situation will be clearer on Monday night as Raw will feature champion Roman Reigns live from Madison Square Garden.