Credit: WWE.com
The recent surprise return of AJ Lee alongside her husband, CM Punk, has created an intense buzz within the WWE Universe. While many fans have warmly welcomed AJ Lee back to the squared circle, former WWE Superstar Nic Nemeth (best known as Dolph Ziggler) has expressed a nuanced view, suggesting that some of the WWE fanbase may prefer a different partner for CM Punk rather than AJ Lee at this moment. This perspective adds an intriguing layer to the unfolding storyline ahead of the highly anticipated WrestlePalooza event.
AJ Lee’s Return Sparks Major WWE Buzz
AJ Lee’s return to WWE after nearly a decade-long absence electrified audiences during the September 5, 2025, episode of SmackDown. Her unexpected arrival came as she assisted CM Punk in his ongoing feud against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins, igniting speculation about a potential mixed tag team match involving the two couples at WrestlePalooza on September 20.
AJ Lee, a three-time WWE Divas Champion, had long been a staple of WWE’s women’s division before her retirement in 2015. Her comeback marks a significant shift, especially given her relative absence from wrestling since then, aside from some executive production work for WOW Women of Wrestling[2]. WWE has signaled that AJ’s return is more than a one-off appearance, with plans to showcase her in further high-profile storylines and matches.
Nic Nemeth’s View: WWE Fans Crave a Different Dynamic
Speaking candidly about the evolving relationship between CM Punk and AJ Lee on screen, Nic Nemeth indicated that the WWE fanbase might actually favor a fresh, alternative pairing for Punk rather than reuniting him with AJ at this time. Nemeth believes that the passionate WWE Universe is eager to see new matchups and story arcs rather than revisiting what some perceive as a “past chapter”.
According to a close WWE insider, “While AJ Lee’s return is a nostalgic treat, there is a noticeable faction of fans and even talent who think CM Punk’s next arc could benefit from partnering with someone who adds a different energy or character dimension”. This could hint at WWE exploring other alliances, possibly involving contemporary female stars who have risen in prominence during AJ’s absence.
Why Some Fans Want Alternatives to AJ Lee
Several reasons underlie this preference from parts of the fanbase and backstage personnel:
- Fresh Storylines: Wrestling thrives on novelty. Some fans are hungry for new fresh chemistry and innovative storytelling rather than relying heavily on nostalgia.
- AJ’s Long Absence: Having been away from regular in-ring competition for over 10 years, WWE creative might face challenges reintegrating her fully into the current product.
- Emergence of New Female Talent: The women’s division has seen a meteoric rise with superstars like Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair, and others bringing fresh charisma and dynamic in-ring styles. Fans and creatives might want to see CM Punk paired with one of these rising talents for a modern twist.
- Balance of Power in Feuds: With Becky Lynch currently holding the Women’s Intercontinental Title and active in the main feud, an alternate partner for Punk might provide a new narrative balance or rivalry dynamic.
The Potential of Mixed Tag Team Matchups at WrestlePalooza
Despite Nemeth’s viewpoint, WWE evidently has strong plans for Punk and AJ Lee to team up at WrestlePalooza against Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch. This match is shaping up to be a marquee attraction designed to capitalize on real-life relationships and long-standing rivalries.
Bringing AJ into this storyline adds star value and fan interest, but the backstage chatter, as per industry sources, indicates that WWE might continue developing the possibility of CM Punk associating with other female talents after WrestlePalooza. This aligns with WWE’s ongoing efforts to elevate the current women’s roster and create compelling, unpredictable storylines.
Backstage Insights: What’s Next for CM Punk and AJ Lee?
Sources close to WWE creative reveal that while the initial focus is supporting AJ and Punk’s combined presence as a power couple, there are plans for future storyline flexibility. “The door is open for experimentation after WrestlePalooza,” one WWE insider shared. “With AJ’s huge fan following and Punk’s legacy, WWE is playing the nostalgia card, but they are mindful to transition smoothly into newer stories that include today’s top female talents.”
Many within WWE also see Rhea Ripley as a potential game-changer for CM Punk’s storylines given her dominant persona and current championship status. Aligning Punk with an athlete of Ripley’s caliber could stir fresh fan interest and rivalries, offering a different energy than what AJ Lee brings.
AJ Lee’s Role: Past, Present, and Future
AJ Lee’s impact on WWE’s women’s division during her original stint can’t be overstated. She was pivotal in transforming the Divas division into a more compelling product, helping WWE’s women’s wrestling evolve into what it is today[2]. Her return, holding the Women’s Intercontinental Title, signals WWE’s intent to place her back in a central storyline role, but also possibly to use her experience as a bridge between older fans and the current roster.
If WWE balances AJ’s star power with the rising momentum of newer female wrestlers, they could create a layered, complex narrative that appeals to multiple segments of the WWE Universe from nostalgic long-time viewers to fans invested in the new era.
Conclusions and What to Watch For
Nic Nemeth’s commentary highlights a genuine discussion brewing among WWE fans and backstage insiders: Should CM Punk’s next impactful association be with AJ Lee, or is there a better fit among today’s female wrestling talent?
While WWE has kicked off the storyline with AJ Lee’s return and her alignment with Punk, the evolving landscape hints that fresh partnerships might be in the works soon. Wrestling fans should keep an eye on:
- WWE Raw and SmackDown segments leading to WrestlePalooza and shortly thereafter.
- Possible shifts in CM Punk’s alliances post-WrestlePalooza.
- Rising stars in the women’s division like Rhea Ripley who could become Punk’s new partner or rival.
- AJ Lee’s continued role as a veteran presence contributing to both nostalgia and storytelling evolution.
As a WWE insider told us, “The best part of WWE’s storytelling is its unpredictability just when you think you know the answers, they change the game.”
Wrestling fans can look forward to an exciting fall season with CM Punk, AJ Lee, and the entire WWE women’s division poised for dramatic developments.