Credit: WWE
WWE fans are experiencing a surge of excitement and anticipation as speculation mounts around AJ Lee’s potential return to the company, sparking a rush to secure tickets for the upcoming September 5, 2025, episode of SmackDown in Chicago. This resurgence of interest is regarded as one of the hottest topics in the wrestling community, with insiders hinting that the former Divas Champion is poised to make her long-awaited comeback, possibly setting the stage for a major storyline involving her husband, CM Punk.
Ticket Sales Soar as Fans React to AJ Lee Speculation
The rumor mill surrounding AJ Lee, who last competed in WWE in 2015, has sent waves of fervor through the fanbase, particularly after Chicago was announced as the venue for SmackDown on September 5—coincidentally CM Punk and AJ Lee’s hometown. Fans and ticket platforms alike have reported a notable spike in demand, illustrating how impactful the prospect of her return remains even a decade after her departure.
According to a WWE insider, the buzz is genuine and not merely fan speculation:
“There’s definitely something brewing behind the scenes. The company’s excitement about AJ’s involvement has energized the locker room and the fan community alike,” the source revealed. “Her return would be more than a one-time appearance; WWE is planning to weave her character back into key storylines.”
WWE Shop Accidentally Fuels Return Rumors
Further validating these rumors, WWE Shop momentarily posted and then deleted a tweet hinting at new AJ Lee merchandise timed for ‘Wrestlepalooza’ on September 20, 2025. The cryptic message indicated preparations for her ring return and merchandise availability, intensifying speculation that AJ Lee’s comeback could coincide with this major event.
This slip-up was widely reported by multiple wrestling news outlets and took social media by storm, confirming that WWE is at least preparing for her presence in an upcoming match, potentially against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins alongside CM Punk in a mixed tag team contest.
Context Behind AJ Lee’s Anticipated Return
AJ Lee rose to prominence during her tenure as WWE Divas Champion, known for her dynamic personality, in-ring skills, and compelling storylines. Since her departure, fans have consistently expressed desires for her return, especially with CM Punk’s own WWE comeback in 2023, which reignited interest in their combined on-screen potential.
As Bryan Alvarez noted on Wrestling Observer Live, AJ Lee’s return is expected to be significant and not just a fleeting appearance:
“She’s slated to assist CM Punk in a high-profile mixed tag match, which could mark the start of a larger role in WWE moving forward,” Alvarez observed.
In addition, members of the current women’s roster reportedly feel inspired and excited by AJ’s return, viewing her as a trailblazer who helped define female wrestling’s modern era.
Potential Storylines and Implications for WWE
WWE seems to be building towards a storyline where AJ Lee aligns with her husband CM Punk against prominent heels Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins, creating a star-studded rivalry that would heighten fan interest heading into Wrestlepalooza, billed as a marquee event for WWE’s ESPN debut.
Sources close to the creative team suggest that this mixed tag match could be a catalyst for further appearances, depending on audience reception and backstage chemistry. One veteran wrestler, who never worked directly with Lee, expressed surprise but optimism:
“When CM Punk first returned, he was hesitant about AJ coming back, respecting her wishes. But now, with both ready, it’s clear WWE wants to maximize that dynamic,” the veteran said.
Why Chicago? The City at the Heart of the Return
The choice of Chicago for the September 5 SmackDown plays a crucial role in the speculation, as it aligns with both Punk and Lee’s personal bases, allowing WWE to capitalize on hometown crowd energy for a storyline showdown. The city has a passionate wrestling fanbase known for enthusiastic reactions, promising a charged atmosphere for what could be AJ Lee’s official re-entry into WWE live action.