Credit: WWE.com
One of the most buzzed-about comebacks in WWE history appears to be confirmed after years of speculation. Former Divas Champion AJ Lee is reportedly making her in-ring return at WWE Wrestlepalooza this September, a surprise that was inadvertently spoiled by the official WWE Shop social media team before the post was swiftly deleted.
WWE Shop’s Slip-Up Sparks Frenzy
The revelation came after a fan jokingly tagged WWEshop on X (formerly Twitter) asking when new AJ Lee merchandise might be available, hinting at a potential return to the ring. To the shock of fans, WWE Shop responded with a tweet stating they expected to have “some 🔥 gear hopefully in time for Wrestlepalooza” an apparent nod to AJ’s imminent comeback. Although WWE Shop quickly deleted the tweet, screenshots rapidly circulated on social media, fueling excitement and speculation.
This accidental leak is widely viewed as confirmation that WWE is gearing up to feature AJ Lee prominently as part of its upcoming programming, with new merchandise being prepped to coincide with her return.
AJ Lee’s Return: More Than a One-Off?
According to insiders and multiple wrestling news sources, AJ Lee’s comeback is not intended to be a mere one-time appearance. Wrestling Observer Live’s Bryan Alvarez reported that WWE hopes to build more storylines around the former star following the big mixed tag team match at Wrestlepalooza scheduled for September 20, 2025.
Sources close to WWE indicate that the company is eager to capitalize on her popularity and legacy, potentially launching an extended run, especially in connection with her husband CM Punk’s current WWE storyline. The couple is reportedly involved in a heated feud against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins, setting the stage for dramatic mixed tag team clashes.
A Homecoming Event: SmackDown in Chicago
All signs point to AJ Lee making a surprise appearance on Friday Night SmackDown on September 5, 2025, in Chicago which is notable as both her and CM Punk’s hometown. This setting adds emotional weight and star power to the event, and insiders suggest the WWE creative team is building anticipation for her return to crescendo in front of the hometown crowd.
A WWE insider shared, “The plan is to give AJ the big hometown pop. Chicago fans have been clamoring for her return for years, and this is the perfect moment to finally deliver.”
Fan and Locker Room Reactions
AJ Lee’s return has generated massive excitement from both fans and fellow WWE Superstars. According to Fightful Select, many current women’s roster members grew up watching AJ and hold her in very high regard, so her return is greeted warmly backstage.
Interestingly, some veterans who never got to work with AJ during her original WWE tenure expressed surprise, recalling that CM Punk had downplayed any return rumors out of respect for AJ’s wishes. That stance appears to have shifted, signaling renewed interest and opportunity.
AJ Lee’s WWE Legacy and Why This Matters
AJ Lee, who left WWE after WrestleMania 31 in 2015, was a transformative figure during her time as Divas Champion, praised for her charisma, in-ring skills, and contribution to elevating women’s wrestling. Her character helped transition WWE into the current era where female wrestlers receive top billing and main event opportunities.
Her return symbolizes a potential blending of WWE’s past and present, especially important as WWE launches new broadcasting partnerships and expands its global reach with events like Wrestlepalooza.
What to Expect Next?
Wrestlepalooza Mixed Tag Match: AJ Lee is expected to team with CM Punk against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins. This high-profile match is anticipated to be a major highlight on the September 20 card.
New Merchandise Launch: WWE Shop plans to release fresh AJ Lee merchandise aligned with her return, capitalizing on nostalgic and new fans alike.
Further Appearances: While the initial buzz surrounds Wrestlepalooza, insiders hint at more sustained involvement for AJ on WWE programming, potentially including weekly SmackDown appearances and storylines.