Introduction

AJ Lee’s electrifying return to WWE on the September 5, 2025 SmackDown sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. After over a decade of retirement, the former Divas Champion stepped back into the ring, uniting with CM Punk in a moment that instantly captured headlines. Here’s everything you need to know about her return, why it matters, and what comes next.

1. The Build-Up to AJ Lee’s Return

Rumors of a Comeback

For years, speculation surrounded AJ Lee’s possible return. While she retired in 2015, whispers of WWE creative testing storylines around her name intensified in recent months.

Clash in Paris Storyline

At the Clash in Paris event, Becky Lynch’s interference cost CM Punk the World Heavyweight Championship. Many fans saw this as a setup for AJ Lee to re-emerge, adding a personal twist to Punk’s feud.

Leaks Before the Return

Just days before her comeback, a leaked WWE Shop post hinted at AJ Lee’s return with new merchandise planned. The accidental teaser fueled speculation that her comeback was closer than ever.

SmackDown Shock

On September 5, in CM Punk’s hometown of Chicago, AJ Lee stormed the SmackDown ring. When Punk refused to fight Becky Lynch, AJ took matters into her own hands, attacking Lynch and standing tall with Punk in front of a roaring crowd.

2. Why This Return Matters

• Historic comeback: AJ Lee hadn’t competed since 2015, making this one of WWE’s most significant returns.
• Storyline impact: Her return directly advances the CM Punk–Becky Lynch feud, paving the way for a blockbuster mixed tag match.
• Cultural relevance: AJ Lee’s re-entry reignites discussions about women’s wrestling, nostalgia, and WWE’s evolving storytelling strategies.

3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. When did AJ Lee retire?
AJ Lee retired in April 2015, shortly after WrestleMania 31.

Q2. What triggered her return?
The storyline involving CM Punk, Becky Lynch’s interference, and WWE’s push for Wrestlepalooza created the perfect setup.

Q3. When exactly did she return?
AJ Lee returned on the September 5, 2025 episode of SmackDown in Chicago.

Q4. Was her return spoiled?
Yes, a leaked WWE Shop post teased her comeback before the live show.

Q5. What’s next for AJ Lee?
A high-profile mixed tag match is expected: AJ Lee and CM Punk vs. Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch at Wrestlepalooza on September 20.

4. What Comes Next?

Wrestlepalooza Spotlight

The stage is set for a mega storyline with AJ Lee and CM Punk teaming up against Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch. This match has the potential to be one of WWE’s defining moments of 2025.

Storyline Ripple Effects

AJ’s return not only boosts Punk’s arc but also revitalizes women’s wrestling narratives, balancing nostalgia with fresh angles.

Conclusion

AJ Lee’s return on September 5, 2025 turned a regular SmackDown episode into a historic moment. More than a nostalgic surprise, her comeback symbolizes WWE’s ability to merge long-term storytelling with real fan excitement. The reunion with CM Punk adds depth to an already heated rivalry, while her presence opens up new creative possibilities.

From a broader perspective, AJ Lee’s comeback isn’t just about one superstar returning—it reflects WWE’s evolving strategy to blend legacy names with current stars, ensuring both emotional engagement and mainstream attention. Whether this momentum lasts will depend on how the story unfolds after Wrestlepalooza, but one thing is certain: AJ Lee is once again at the center of wrestling’s biggest conversations.