WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray has praised a specific choice of words in AJ Lee’s highly anticipated return promo on WWE Raw, calling it an important “dog whistle” that carries significant weight beyond the surface. The usage of this carefully chosen word symbolizes AJ’s understanding of her role and her message to fans and critics alike, signaling a deeper narrative within WWE’s current storytelling landscape.
AJ Lee’s Return to WWE Raw Sparks Massive Buzz
AJ Lee made a powerful comeback on the September 8, 2025, episode of WWE Raw, delivering a promo that combined nostalgia with a fresh edge, setting up a mixed tag team challenge alongside CM Punk against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins at the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event[2][3][5]. Fans flooded the arena and social media with excitement as the former Women’s Champion embraced her unique character, blending vulnerability and defiance.
According to a backstage source close to WWE, AJ’s team spent considerable time crafting this promo to ensure it both reintroduced her to a new generation of viewers and honored longtime fans who remember her original run. The source added, “AJ wasn’t just coming back to rile up the crowd; she was making a statement — and every word was chosen with intent.”
The ‘Dog Whistle’ Moment Explained by Bully Ray
Bully Ray, known for his sharp wrestling insights and candid commentary, noted the importance of a particular word AJ Lee used during her promo. The term, described by Ray as a “dog whistle,” is a subtle but powerful choice intended to resonate on multiple levels.
In Bully Ray’s view, AJ’s use of this word functioned as a quiet yet pointed message to those who have seen her journey — from being underestimated to becoming a disruptive, influential figure in the WWE locker room and narrative arcs. This phrase conveyed a dual meaning: visible to fans in the know but covert enough to avoid outright controversy, thus deepening the layered storytelling WWE strives to create.
Ray reflected, “It’s like AJ is saying, ‘I’m back, and I remember every slight, every underestimation. But I’m not just here for nostalgia. I’m here to make a real impact, and this word I used—maybe it’s small, but it’s loaded.’ That’s the brilliance in her promo.”[4]
Crafting a Heel with Depth: AJ Lee’s Evolved Role
AJ Lee’s promo signals a matured character evolution. She blends her signature unpredictability with a confident, almost sinister edge that hints at her becoming a true heel (villain) in the current WWE storytelling. This transformation is supported by the dynamics seen backstage, where even her real-life husband, Seth Rollins, has been teased as getting increasingly annoyed by AJ’s actions, blurring lines between reality and fiction[4].
This nuanced portrayal enhances her appeal among fans who enjoy layered characters rather than one-dimensional personas. Wrestling insiders note that WWE has been deliberate in positioning AJ to challenge not only physical opponents like Becky Lynch but also to spark psychological intrigue within storylines.
One WWE creative team member shared, “AJ’s return isn’t just about matches; it’s about controlling the narrative space. She’s standing shoulder to shoulder with CM Punk and Seth Rollins now, and the tension that creates will be electric.”
Setting the Stage for Wrestlepalooza’s Mixed Tag Match
As part of her Raw return, AJ Lee, alongside CM Punk, officially challenged Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins to a mixed tag team match at Wrestlepalooza — an event that promises high stakes and intense rivalries[2][3]. The match, while not initially for a title, carries significant narrative weight, potentially setting up future championship pursuits, particularly for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship that Becky currently holds.
AJ’s promo also served to remind audiences of her history and her fight for recognition, positioning her as a credible contender who will not be overshadowed despite the passage of time and the emergence of new stars.
Mental Health Awareness and Empowerment Themes
Besides wrestling rivalries, AJ’s promo touched on important social issues, notably advocating for mental health awareness. This dimension adds authenticity to her character and resonates with fans who value wrestlers using their platform for positive messages[1]. The inclusion of this topic blended seamlessly with her call to arms, forming a complex persona committed to both personal and societal empowerment.
This aspect of her return adds layers of relatability and depth to her role, distinguishing her promo from typical WWE returns that focus solely on competition or personal vendettas.
WWE’s Strategy: Balancing Nostalgia with Innovation
AJ Lee’s return embodies WWE’s ongoing strategy to balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling that appeals to both longtime and newer fans. By incorporating “dog whistle” language and socially relevant themes, WWE is crafting storylines that feel both relevant and entertaining.
Sources close to WWE’s creative team revealed that this approach is deliberate: “We know fans love seeing legends return, but it’s not about rehashing old glories — it’s about giving them reasons to stay invested, with new layers to their characters and fresh feuds that matter.”
Fans and Critics React to AJ Lee’s Return Promo
The reaction to AJ Lee’s promo has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media platforms saw an outpouring of support and excitement for her comeback, with many praising her verbal delivery and the subtle nuances Bully Ray highlighted.
One fan comment that circulated widely was, “AJ didn’t just come back to remind us who she is—she came back to remind us why she matters.” This sentiment encapsulates the impact of the “dog whistle” moment Ray mentioned.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for AJ Lee in WWE?
With Wrestlepalooza on the horizon, all eyes will be on AJ Lee and CM Punk as they prepare for their mixed tag team match. Her return is expected to inject new energy into the women’s division and bring a compelling storyline to WWE programming.
According to WWE insiders, there is speculation that AJ Lee might soon challenge for more prestigious titles, including the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, setting up a high-profile rivalry with Becky Lynch that could define the division for months to come.
AJ Lee’s return to WWE Raw is more than just a nostalgic moment; it’s a calculated reintroduction loaded with layered messaging and strong character work. Bully Ray’s observation about the “dog whistle” word underscores how even a single phrase can carry significant meaning in wrestling promos, blending storytelling, character development, and social awareness. As WWE builds toward Wrestlepalooza, AJ’s presence is sure to be a pivotal element of the evolving WWE landscape.