AJ Lee has officially ended her decade-long retirement by signing a new WWE contract and making a dramatic return on the September 5, 2025, episode of Friday Night SmackDown in Chicago. The former three-time Divas Champion re-emerged in the spotlight alongside her husband, CM Punk, launching fresh storylines that electrify WWE’s women’s division and set up high-stakes matches for the upcoming Wrestlepalooza pay-per-view[1][2].
A Triumphant Return: AJ Lee’s Wrestling Comeback
AJ Lee’s surprise appearance marked her first in-ring involvement since retiring in 2015 due to spinal injury concerns and a desire to prioritize her well-being after fulfilling her career goals. The timing of her return coincides with an ongoing intense rivalry between CM Punk and Becky Lynch’s husband Seth Rollins, recently intensified at the Clash in Paris PPV, where Lynch interfered in the championship bout and helped Rollins retain his title[1][2].
Immediately after SmackDown went off air, WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque posted exclusive backstage footage showing AJ Lee signing her new WWE contract, confirming the official nature of her comeback. This behind-the-scenes moment dispelled any doubts about whether her return was a one-time stunt, signaling a multi-appearance schedule and a renewed long-term investment from WWE in her character[1][3].
“AJ’s return was built with precision. The company and Triple H see her as a pivotal figure to elevate the women’s division once again,” a WWE insider revealed. “Her chemistry with CM Punk and the feud with Becky and Seth creates a compelling narrative, reigniting fan passion across demographics.”[1]
Setting the Stage: AJ Lee’s Feud With Becky Lynch and Mixed Tag Prospects
After AJ’s reintroduction by CM Punk on SmackDown, the former Divas Champion launched a fierce attack on Becky Lynch, the reigning WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion. This altercation was not random — it directly responded to Becky’s disrespect towards CM Punk and the Rollins-Lynch alliance that has been dominating headlines[2].
Their ongoing storyline is rapidly building towards an explosive mixed tag team match, pitting AJ Lee and CM Punk against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins at the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event on September 20, 2025. Wrestling journals and insiders indicate this high-profile bout will serve as a centerpiece for the show, leveraging the star power of two of WWE’s premier couples to captivate audiences[1][2].
Adding intrigue, AJ was seen holding Becky Lynch’s Women’s Intercontinental Championship shortly after the SmackDown broadcast, hinting that Lee may soon target this title — a storyline that could bring added championship prestige to her return run[1][2].
What’s Next for AJ Lee: Potential Opponents and WWE Title Pursuits
With her contract now signed and her first appearance behind her, questions swirl about AJ Lee’s future trajectory in WWE programming. Experts suggest that, given her proven charisma and in-ring skill, she could be positioned as a central figure in the women’s division’s evolving landscape. Possible opponents include not only Becky Lynch but other top stars fighting to assert dominance in the rebranded women’s roster around the Intercontinental Title[4].
WWE appears intent on integrating AJ Lee both into the title picture and ongoing personal rivalries, creating numerous storyline possibilities that balance her fan-favorite status with fresh challenges[4]. Fans can anticipate several competitive matchups, potentially including specialty matches or stipulation-based bouts that highlight AJ’s dynamic style and storytelling abilities.
Fan Reaction and WWE’s Strategic Move
AJ Lee’s reappearance generated widespread excitement among WWE fans globally, many of whom had campaigned for years hoping for her return. Her presence not only adds star power but signals WWE’s commitment to honoring and evolving the legacy of its women’s division, blending old school stars with new talent[5].
A source close to WWE’s creative team stated, “AJ’s return is a message to the fans — WWE is listening and understands the value of its women’s roster history. Integrating AJ now creates fresh storylines and reminds everyone why she was a cornerstone of the Women’s Revolution.”[1]
Triple H’s direct involvement in announcing and showcasing AJ’s contract signing reinforces the notion that WWE views her as a strategic asset for upcoming programming and pay-per-view events[1][3].
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins for AJ Lee in WWE
AJ Lee’s signing of a new WWE contract and return to SmackDown heralds a major chapter in WWE’s ongoing evolution of its women’s division. With a blend of nostalgia and fresh rivalries, her reignited feud with Becky Lynch and alignment with CM Punk promises to deliver high drama and intense competition.
Wrestlepalooza 2025 has gained a marquee mixed tag team match that could shape WWE storylines for months to come — setting the stage for AJ Lee to reclaim her place among the top female talents in professional wrestling once again[1][2].
Fans eager to witness her next moves can expect AJ to be a key fixture on WWE television, with title ambitions and rivalries poised to define this thrilling second act of her wrestling career.