In a candid interview with STATE OF MIND, former WWE Superstar AJ Lee opened up about her fears and concerns regarding her return to the world of professional wrestling after a decade-long hiatus. The 37-year-old wrestling icon, whose real name is April Jeanette Mendez, shared her thoughts on the pressures of returning to the spotlight and the potential impact on her mental health.
AJ Lee, a three-time Women’s Champion during her WWE tenure, first stepped into the ring in 2007 and became a household name by the early 2010s. She was known for her quick wit, sharp tongue, and unapologetic attitude, earning her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim from the wrestling community. However, in 2015, AJ Lee shocked the world by announcing her retirement from professional wrestling, citing concerns about her mental health and well-being.
Fast forward to 2023, AJ Lee made a surprise return to WWE, sparking widespread excitement among fans and speculation about her motivations. In the interview, AJ Lee revealed that she had been struggling with anxiety and depression for years, and the thought of returning to the WWE had left her feeling apprehensive.
“I was scared, to be honest,” AJ Lee admitted. “I was scared of being in the spotlight again, of being under the microscope, of having to perform at a certain level. I was scared of failing, of not being good enough, of not being able to keep up with the demands of being a WWE Superstar.”
AJ Lee’s concerns are not unfounded. The pressures of professional wrestling can be intense, both physically and mentally. The constant travel, grueling match schedules, and scrutiny from fans and critics can take a significant toll on a wrestler’s mental health. AJ Lee’s decision to speak out about her fears and concerns is a testament to her strength and courage.
AJ Lee’s journey to return to WWE was not an easy one. She spent years focusing on her mental health, seeking therapy and support to manage her anxiety and depression. She also pursued other interests, including writing and podcasting, to keep her creative juices flowing.
AJ Lee’s return to WWE has been met with a mixed reaction from fans. Some have welcomed her back with open arms, eager to see her back in the ring. Others have expressed concerns about her mental health and the potential risks of returning to a high-pressure environment.
“I think it’s great that AJ Lee is being open and honest about her struggles,” said WWE fan, Emily Johnson. “But at the same time, I’m worried about her returning to the WWE. The pressure and stress can be overwhelming, and I don’t want to see her get hurt.”
AJ Lee’s return to WWE also raises questions about the company’s approach to mental health and wellness. WWE has made strides in recent years to prioritize wrestler well-being, but more work needs to be done to create a supportive and inclusive environment for wrestlers.
“The WWE has made some progress in terms of mental health awareness, but we still have a long way to go,” said wrestling analyst, Dave Meltzer. “AJ Lee’s return is a reminder that the company needs to do more to support its wrestlers, both on and off the screen.”
AJ Lee’s future plans in WWE are uncertain, but one thing is clear: she is determined to make a positive impact on the company and its wrestlers. In the interview, AJ Lee revealed that she hopes to use her platform to raise awareness about mental health and to support other wrestlers who may be struggling.
“I want to use my return to WWE as an opportunity to make a difference,” AJ Lee said. “I want to help create a more supportive and inclusive environment for wrestlers, where they feel comfortable speaking out about their struggles and seeking help when they need it.”
As WWE continues to navigate the complex landscape of professional wrestling, AJ Lee’s return serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing wrestler well-being. With her courage and determination, AJ Lee is poised to make a positive impact on the company and its wrestlers, both on and off the screen.
Conclusion
AJ Lee’s return to WWE is a testament to her strength and courage in the face of adversity. Her fears and concerns about returning to the spotlight and dealing with the pressures of professional wrestling are understandable, but her determination to use her platform to make a positive impact is inspiring. As WWE continues to evolve and grow, AJ Lee’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing wrestler well-being and creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all.
FAQ
Q: What was AJ Lee’s biggest concern about returning to WWE?
A: AJ Lee’s biggest concern was returning to the spotlight and dealing with the pressure that comes with performing in WWE again.
Q: Why did AJ Lee retire from professional wrestling in 2015?
A: AJ Lee retired from professional wrestling in 2015 due to concerns about her mental health and well-being.
Q: What has AJ Lee been doing since her retirement from WWE?
A: Since her retirement, AJ Lee has pursued other interests, including writing and podcasting, to keep her creative juices flowing.
Q: How has AJ Lee’s return to WWE been received by fans?
A: AJ Lee’s return to WWE has been met with a mixed reaction from fans, with some welcoming her back with open arms and others expressing concerns about her mental health.
Q: What does AJ Lee hope to achieve with her return to WWE?
A: AJ Lee hopes to use her platform to raise awareness about mental health and to support other wrestlers who may be struggling.