WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray recently shed light on a pivotal moment from AJ Lee’s return promo on WWE Raw, emphasizing how a subtle but deliberate phrase she used carried important weight. AJ Lee’s comeback, which aired on September 8, 2025, marked her first major WWE appearance in nearly a decade, and Bully Ray believes the choice of one specific word was a crucial part of reconnecting with the audience and setting the tone for her renewed WWE journey.
AJ Lee’s Return: A Carefully Crafted Message
AJ Lee’s Raw promo immediately drew attention not only because of her unexpected comeback but also due to the clear craftsmanship behind her words. As Bully Ray pointed out, the inclusion of what he called a “dog whistle”—a phrase or reference that can communicate layered meanings to certain segments of the WWE audience—was a smart move in her return speech.
This word was not just filler; it was a deliberate callback that resonated with longtime fans and established her stance in WWE’s storytelling landscape. It helped AJ re-establish her identity while simultaneously setting up new angles for her ongoing feud, especially against Becky Lynch, whom she challenged during the promo and will face in the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event[1][3].
Why the “Dog Whistle” Mattered
According to Bully Ray, who has worked extensively backstage with numerous WWE talents and understands the nuances of wrestling psychology, the importance of this word goes beyond mere nostalgia or a simple call-back. It served as a bridge between AJ Lee’s past persona and her present ambitions, honoring the fans who have followed her while giving newer viewers a clear hint that she means business.
A WWE insider shared backstage, “It was a masterstroke to weave that subtle line in. People who remember AJ’s original run immediately picked up on it, and newcomers are intrigued enough to want to find out what it means. It’s a smart way to build intrigue and respect at the same time.”
This technique of using a “dog whistle” is common in wrestling promos but requires finesse; done poorly, it can confuse or alienate fans. AJ’s promo, however, was praised for striking the right balance—reintroducing her character in a way that felt fresh yet deeply connected to her legacy[4].
The Wider Impact on AJ Lee’s Character Reintroduction
AJ Lee’s wrestling prime was known for its mix of intense passion, complexity, and an often edgy, rebellious spirit. Her integration of this “dog whistle” element shows a new maturity and sophistication in her approach, proving that she has learned from her previous WWE runs, including moments that did not land as well with audiences.
Bully Ray added, “She’s owning this return like a true pro—respecting what she was, but firmly planting her feet in the present. We’re seeing the evolution of AJ Lee, and that word was an anchor in her promo to remind us all why we care.”
This promo also quietly set the stage for future storylines, particularly the brewing tension between AJ Lee and Becky Lynch. While the upcoming Wrestlepalooza mixed tag match includes CM Punk teaming with AJ Lee against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins, sources close to WWE believe this is just the beginning. The promo sprinkled in hints that an Intercontinental Women’s Championship feud could be the next big chapter between these two stars, which would elevate the stakes beyond just a tag encounter[3][4].
Fan and Critic Reactions
The wrestling community responded positively to AJ Lee’s return and the layers in her promo. Fans praised her for striking the right emotional tones—balancing humility, confidence, and a bit of defiance. Wrestling commentary outlets and insiders, including Sean Ross Sapp, noted that her message was “pitch-perfect,” checking every box expected from a strategic WWE comeback[2][4].
In an era when wrestling storylines strive for depth and connection, AJ’s promo reflects WWE’s growing emphasis on storytelling that respects audience intelligence while teasing complex character arcs.
What This Means for WWE Storytelling Moving Forward
AJ Lee’s effective use of subtle messaging exemplifies a modern WWE storytelling evolution. Backstage sources indicate that WWE creative is keen to capitalize on the momentum her return has generated. By empowering established talents like AJ to speak with nuance and layered intentions, WWE hopes to rekindle interest in long-standing franchises and characters, while also making wrestling more compelling for new viewers.
A WWE creative team member noted, “AJ’s return promo reminded us all why storytelling in wrestling matters. It’s not just about big moves or flashy entrances—it’s about giving the audience something they haven’t seen before, or something they thought they knew but now see in a new light.”
Looking Ahead: AJ Lee vs. Becky Lynch at Wrestlepalooza
As the WWE universe eagerly awaits Wrestlepalooza, the direct fallout from AJ Lee’s promo is already creating buzz around her clash with Becky Lynch. The promo made it clear AJ is not here just for nostalgia; she intends to compete at the top level and reclaim her place in WWE’s women’s division hierarchy[1][3].
With CM Punk in her corner, AJ Lee’s journey back to WWE prominence seems well underway, and the clever use of that “dog whistle” phrase in her Raw promo has positioned her story arc for maximum impact.
AJ Lee’s return is not just a flashback moment; it is a carefully orchestrated chapter opener. Bully Ray’s insight into the layered significance of her words underscores the renewed focus on sophisticated storytelling in WWE, making AJ’s comeback one of the most compelling narratives of 2025.