Credit: WWE.com
AJ Lee is gearing up for a significant return to WWE Raw this Monday, marking her first appearance on the red brand in over a decade. This high-profile booking comes directly after her stunning comeback during the September 5th episode of Friday Night SmackDown and is poised to set the stage for an eagerly anticipated Wrestlepalooza match.
AJ Lee’s Raw Return: A Decade Later
Raw General Manager Adam Pearce officially confirmed AJ Lee’s appearance on the September 8th Raw episode from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Pearce underscored the importance of this moment, stating, “Everybody saw what took place on Friday, and now, for the first time in more than a decade, AJ Lee will be live in the house on the flagship”.
This announcement has generated a buzz among WWE fans who have long awaited Lee’s return. Since retiring in 2015, AJ Lee has remained one of the most beloved figures in women’s wrestling, known for her feisty charisma and unique presence. Her return on SmackDown, where she confronted Becky Lynch after Lynch had aggressed against Lee’s husband CM Punk, was met with a “curtain sellout” backstage reaction as many superstars gathered to witness the moment live.
What to Expect on Raw: More Than Just an Appearance
Sources close to WWE reveal that AJ Lee’s Raw appearance will not be merely a nostalgic cameo. Insider reports indicate the show will use this platform to set up her official in-ring return, likely revealing the details for a major match at Wrestlepalooza.
An insider shared, “AJ’s return on Raw is all about reigniting old rivalries and elevating the storylines headed into Wrestlepalooza. There’s a clear plan to position her at the center of a mixed tag team match alongside CM Punk”.
Wrestlepalooza is expected to feature Lee teaming with CM Punk in a high-profile mixed tag bout against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins. This match promises to be one of the marquee attractions of the event, tying together years of personal and professional drama.
The Raw Card Heating Up: Additional Matches and Appearances
In addition to AJ Lee, WWE Raw will feature other notable talents and matches to complement the night’s energy:
The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) will be live in Milwaukee, with Pearce teasing that the future first-ballot Hall of Famers “will have something to say,” further stirring anticipation among fans.
Two highly anticipated singles matches have been scheduled: AJ Styles faces off against El Grande Americano, and Lyra Valkyria goes one-on-one with Raquel Rodriguez.
These elements combined indicate WWE’s strategy to create a stacked show that entertains fans while building momentum for the big Wrestlepalooza event.
Fan Reaction and WWE Universe Buzz
The WWE Universe has reacted enthusiastically to AJ Lee’s return. Former rival Nikki Bella expressed excitement on social media, reminiscing about their past Divas Championship clashes and hoping for a rematch, “That would be so fun! We had a great and magical run! Loving 2025 so much!!! Goodness, imagine if Paige and Brie showed up!”.
Fans and wrestlers alike have taken note of Lee now holding the Women’s Intercontinental Championship following her SmackDown return segment, amplifying the stakes for her upcoming Raw appearance.
The Significance of AJ Lee’s Return in Today’s WWE Landscape
AJ Lee’s return comes at a time when WWE is emphasizing legacy stars and long-term storytelling. Her presence bridges the gap between WWE’s past and present women’s divisions, bringing fresh intrigue and legitimacy.
A WWE insider commented, “AJ’s coming back at this stage is not just about nostalgia—it’s a strategic move. She represents a link to a transformative era for women’s wrestling, and her fresh involvement with top stars like Becky Lynch and CM Punk helps WWE craft compelling, character-driven narratives for 2025 and beyond”.
Final Thoughts: What’s Next for AJ Lee?
Monday’s Raw episode will be crucial for AJ Lee as she re-establishes herself within WWE’s vibrant ecosystem. With the Wrestlepalooza mixed tag match looming, fans can expect continued animosity and drama centered around Lee and Lynch, who are set to rekindle their rivalry in a high-stakes context.
It is likely that AJ Lee will adopt a disruptive, chaotic approach during her Raw segments, posing a constant threat and unpredictable presence to Becky Lynch and others involved. This promises to entertain audiences and keep storylines dynamic heading into Wrestlepalooza.
WWE Raw Live Episode Highlights (September 8, 2025):
AJ Lee’s first Raw appearance in over 10 years
AJ Styles vs. El Grande Americano
Lyra Valkyria vs. Raquel Rodriguez
The Usos (Jimmy & Jey Uso) live segment
As Monday night approaches, the WWE Universe eagerly awaits to witness AJ Lee’s return not just as a surprise guest but as a key player shaping the future of WWE’s women’s division and mixed tag team competition at Wrestlepalooza.