A decade-long absence has ended: AJ Lee Returns to WWE. The former Divas Champion made a shocking comeback on Friday, September 5, 2025, during the SmackDown broadcast live from the Allstate Arena in Chicago, according to multiple sources including NoDQ.com and TheSportster. The highly anticipated return saw Lee intervene in the ongoing heated rivalry between her husband, CM Punk, and the formidable duo of Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, setting the stage for a Wrestlepalooza showdown.
A Dramatic Interruption
The seeds of this confrontation were sown weeks prior. Becky Lynch had repeatedly interfered in CM Punk’s matches, escalating tensions to a boiling point. On the September 1st episode of Raw, Lynch even slapped Punk, as reported by Ringside News. During the September 5th SmackDown, Lynch once again got involved, prompting CM Punk to hint that he knew someone who would retaliate on his behalf. The crowd erupted as AJ Lee’s iconic “Light It Up” theme music hit, marking her first appearance in a WWE ring in over ten years, a moment captured by Azat TV’s live coverage.
Confrontation and Championship Intent
Lee, who retired from in-ring competition in April 2015 due to permanent damage to her cervical spine and a desire to fulfill other life goals, according to her Wikipedia page, wasted no time in confronting Becky Lynch. She launched an immediate attack on Lynch, leaving “The Man” reeling. The Telegraph India described the scene as a “chaotic brawl,” culminating in Lee grabbing hold of the Women’s Intercontinental Championship belt, signaling a clear statement of intent.
WWE’s Investment in AJ Lee
The return isn’t just a one-off appearance. WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque confirmed that AJ Lee has signed a multi-year, full-time contract with the company. DXB News Network reported that Triple H even uploaded a video of Lee signing her new contract, emphasizing a significant investment in her as a cornerstone of the women’s division once again.
Wrestlepalooza Showdown
This dramatic return has set the stage for a highly anticipated mixed tag team match at the upcoming Wrestlepalooza premium live event on September 20, 2025. AJ Lee will team with her husband CM Punk to face Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, a confrontation that has been building for weeks following the controversial finish at WWE Clash in Paris. According to Geo Super, Lynch’s interference cost Punk the World Heavyweight Championship, adding fuel to the fire.
Fan and Talent Reaction
The return has generated immense excitement among fans and talent alike. TheRingReport.com highlighted the surge in social media activity following Lee’s appearance, with many speculating about her potential to challenge for championships, including the Women’s Intercontinental Title. WrestleTalk echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential for dream matches and renewed rivalries.
A New Chapter for the Women’s Division
Lee’s return injects a fresh dynamic into the women’s division. Her established reputation and undeniable charisma make her an immediate contender. TheSportster noted that her experience and popularity could elevate the division and draw in new viewers. With a multi-year contract in place, WWE clearly envisions Lee as a key player in the future of women’s wrestling.
Potential Championship Aspirations
The most immediate question on everyone’s mind is whether AJ Lee will pursue championship gold. Her actions on SmackDown, specifically grabbing the Women’s Intercontinental Championship belt, strongly suggest this is her intention. Wrestling Noticias speculated that a title match could be in the works as early as the Wrestlepalooza event, depending on the outcome of the mixed tag team match.
Championship Landscape
Lee’s return complicates the championship picture. Becky Lynch is currently the Women’s Intercontinental Champion, and a feud between the two seems inevitable. However, other contenders, such as Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley, are also vying for the title. Lee’s presence adds another layer of intrigue to the already competitive landscape.
The Future is Unwritten
AJ Lee’s return to WWE marks a significant moment for both the company and its fans. Her presence brings a blend of nostalgia and excitement, promising compelling storylines and potentially groundbreaking matches. As she steps back into the ring, the wrestling world watches with bated breath to see what the future holds for this iconic figure. Her return and the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event underscores WWE’s commitment to delivering high-stakes, engaging content to its global audience.
