Credit: WWE.com
AJ Lee, a former WWE Divas Champion, retired from professional wrestling in 2015 due to neck injuries, leaving fans hoping for her comeback ever since. With her husband CM Punk making a high-profile return to WWE in November 2023, speculation around AJ Lee’s possible return has reignited. WWE appears eager to bring Lee back into the fold, especially with a potential mixed tag team match on the horizon at the upcoming WrestlePalooza event.
A History of WWE’s Interest in AJ Lee’s Return
This is not the first time WWE has attempted to bring AJ Lee back since CM Punk’s resurgence in the company. Backstage sources reveal that WWE has floated the idea multiple times, recognizing the enormous fan interest and the chemistry her return alongside Punk could generate. According to a WWE insider, “AJ’s presence not only elevates storylines but also brings a nostalgic boost to the women’s division. The company has been very careful, though, given her previous injury history.”
While AJ has maintained a low profile outside the ring since 2015, she has kept professional and pleasant communication with WWE staff and talent over the years, which has kept the door open for a return. Many in the women’s roster, especially younger wrestlers who grew up watching her, reportedly view this possibility with excitement.
Recent Signs Pointing Toward AJ Lee’s WWE Return
Several recent developments have intensified the buzz around AJ Lee’s comeback. Wrestling news outlets and insiders have highlighted credible signs, including a now-deleted post from WWE Shop that seemed to confirm her imminent return by teasing new AJ Lee merchandise timed with WrestlePalooza, scheduled for September 20, 2025. The tweet read, “With AJ Lee’s return to the ring, we are looking to have some 🔥 gear hopefully in time for WrestlePalooza,” which was promptly deleted but widely circulated by fans and media alike.
Additionally, Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer discussed on Wrestling Observer Live that AJ Lee is expected to return imminently, not just for a one-off appearance but potentially for a longer run. The reports suggest that WWE is preparing a high-profile mixed tag team match featuring CM Punk and AJ Lee against the team of Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins two of the company’s biggest stars currently involved in a heated rivalry.
Potential Impact on WWE’s Landscape
If AJ Lee returns, it would mark a significant moment for WWE, especially as it aligns with CM Punk’s ongoing storyline arcs. Sources close to WWE’s creative team revealed, “The plan is to make this more than just a novelty reunion. AJ is seen as a pivotal figure who can help reinvigorate the women’s division and enhance the storyline with CM Punk and his enemies.”
This return is expected to draw heavily from AJ’s previous in-ring and character strengths her sharp mic skills, charismatic personality, and in-ring storytelling ability. Moreover, it would highlight WWE’s strategy of blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling to engage both old and new fans.
The Timing and Location of AJ Lee’s Return
All signs point to AJ Lee making her WWE comeback debut on the September 6, 2025, episode of SmackDown in Chicago CM Punk’s hometown. This would be a momentous occasion, given Chicago’s significance in Punk and Lee’s personal and professional lives. The timing also strategically leads into WrestlePalooza on September 20, where the teased mixed tag match is slated to take place.
Insiders suggest that this Chicago return is intentional, designed to maximize crowd reaction and set the stage for AJ and Punk’s team-up storyline.
Fan and Locker Room Reaction
The WWE locker room is abuzz with anticipation about AJ Lee’s possible return. Many veterans expressed surprise but excitement, having never worked with her before but knowing her legendary status. Meanwhile, fans on social media have enthusiastically welcomed any news hinting at AJ’s return, elevating her to one of the most eagerly anticipated comebacks in recent WWE memory.
An experienced WWE talent who wished to remain anonymous shared, “AJ coming back with CM Punk shakes things up it’s a game-changer. Everyone’s talking about it backstage, and there’s a buzz you don’t often get.”
Will This Be a Long-Term Return?
While much attention focuses on her imminent return and WrestlePalooza involvement, there remains uncertainty about whether AJ Lee’s comeback will be a one-off or a longer run. Reports indicate WWE’s hope is for a sustained presence, but given her previous injury concerns and personal priorities, it’s yet to be seen if AJ will commit long term.
According to Fightful Select, conversations between AJ and WWE have been positive but cautious, with an understanding that any return must prioritize her health and well-being.