AJ Lee’s highly anticipated return to WWE on the September 5 episode of SmackDown at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois, has the wrestling world buzzing and her merchandise is back on the shelves to match the excitement. After a decade away from WWE in-ring competition, the former three-time Divas Champion’s surprise comeback alongside her husband CM Punk has ignited fan enthusiasm, prompting WWE Shop to relaunch her apparel and memorabilia for a new generation of fans.
AJ Lee’s Shocking WWE Comeback
AJ Lee’s return on SmackDown was met with overwhelming cheers from a crowd of over 16,000 fans, many of whom had been chanting her name long before she appeared in the ring. It marked her first WWE appearance since retiring after WrestleMania 31 roughly ten years ago, a retirement that followed shortly after CM Punk’s departure from the company in 2014. Her comeback was not merely nostalgic it was a statement that the WWE’s women’s division is embracing its roots amid the ongoing Women’s Evolution era.
The moment unfolded during a heated main event segment involving CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and Becky Lynch. Lynch, still the Women’s Intercontinental Champion, was met with boos and chants for AJ Lee, intensifying the atmosphere in the arena. As Lynch disparaged Chicago and its sports teams, Punk emerged to confront her, escalating the tension until AJ Lee finally appeared to aid her husband. The crowd erupted in applause as “AJ LEE IS BACK!!!!!” trended across WWE’s social media platforms.
Why AJ Lee’s Merchandise Return Matters
WWE Shop’s decision to restock AJ Lee merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, and collectible items, is a direct response to the renewed interest sparked by this unexpected return. Merchandise sales often reflect a wrestler’s popularity and marketability, and AJ’s return signals WWE’s confidence in her star power as a draw for both longtime fans and newer viewers discovering her legacy.
A WWE insider revealed, “Bringing back AJ Lee’s merch wasn’t just about capitalizing on the moment it’s about reintroducing a pivotal figure in women’s wrestling who helped shape the division’s modern identity. Fans have been clamoring for her presence, and the merchandise is flying off the shelves as a testament to her enduring appeal.”
Setting the Stage for Wrestlepalozaa
Sources close to the WWE creative team suggest that AJ Lee’s return is not a one-off moment but the beginning of a larger storyline arc leading into the upcoming Wrestlepalozaa event scheduled for September 20, 2025. Rumors abound that AJ and CM Punk will team up to confront Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, setting up a high-stakes rivalry that could redefine the alliances within WWE.
The intrigue around this potential showdown has amplified the buzz around AJ Lee and further boosted her merchandise sales, as fans anticipate the newest chapter in her WWE saga.
Fans’ and Analysts’ Reactions
Public and industry reaction to AJ Lee’s reemergence has been overwhelmingly positive. Wrestling analysts emphasize that her unique charisma and in-ring storytelling helped pave the way for stars like Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, and Bayley during the WWE Women’s Evolution a movement that transformed women’s wrestling from a sideshow into a main event spectacle.
Social media platforms have been flooded with enthusiastic responses, with many fans expressing excitement about the prospect of AJ Lee returning to active competition or playing a major on-screen role. “AJ Lee’s comeback is the breath of fresh air WWE needed,” one fan tweeted during the SmackDown broadcast.
The Commercial Impact on WWE Shop
WWE Shop has reported a significant spike in traffic and orders for AJ Lee-branded products since the SmackDown episode aired. Limited edition items that had been sold out during her original run are resurfacing, now with subtle updates to commemorate her return.
From a business perspective, this is a win-win. Fans get access to coveted merchandise while WWE capitalizes on the surge in attention surrounding AJ’s comeback. A merchandise manager within WWE’s retail division noted, “AJ’s merchandise is flying off our digital shelves we’re even exploring new items to meet demand. This return isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a fresh start for her brand and the company.”
What’s Next for AJ Lee in WWE?
While no official match announcements have been made, the signs point toward AJ Lee becoming an active player in WWE’s current storylines. Her pairing with CM Punk could herald a new tag team dynamic in the women’s division, as well as a deeper involvement in rivalries with top stars like Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch.
Industry insiders speculate that AJ’s return might also lead to backstage roles such as mentoring WWE’s emerging female talent, given her experience and influence during her original tenure. One insider noted, “AJ Lee has a wealth of knowledge and charisma that could benefit the locker room both in and out of the ring. WWE is looking at how to maximize every aspect of her return.”
Backstage Insights on AJ Lee’s Return
According to a WWE insider familiar with the latest production and creative meetings, “AJ coming back was a big secret kept under wraps to preserve the surprise factor. Everyone backstage is energized because her presence reminds us of the passion and grit that helped revolutionize this industry’s women’s division. She’s ready to pick up where she left off, and the merchandise revival is just the beginning.”
This insider further emphasized the company’s strategic planning: “WWE sees AJ as a connecting thread between past and present generations of female talent. This isn’t just a return; it’s a reintroduction to a star who still has a lot to give.”