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AJ Lee, a pivotal figure in women’s professional wrestling, is set to lace up her boots for the first time in nearly a decade, marking a highly anticipated comeback at WWE Wrestlepalooza. The popular adage "never say never" frequently echoes through the halls of professional wrestling, and Lee, who had seemingly embraced a contented retirement, now finds herself returning to the squared circle for a significant box office encounter alongside her husband, CM Punk. While the environment of a WWE ring remains familiar, her ten-year hiatus from active competition injects an element of apprehension into her preparations, a sentiment she has openly acknowledged.
Lee’s path back to WWE began on September 5, when she made a surprising appearance to assist her husband, CM Punk, in a pivotal storyline development. This moment swiftly ignited speculation and ultimately laid the groundwork for a marquee tag team match scheduled for Wrestlepalooza: Punk and Lee versus the formidable duo of Seth "Freakin’" Rollins and Becky Lynch. This upcoming contest will be Lee’s first competitive match since March 2015, a span that underscores the magnitude of her return and the physical and mental challenges inherent in stepping back into elite-level competition after such an extended period away.
Speaking to ESPN, Lee articulated the mixed emotions surrounding her impending return. "It’s been 10 years," she stated, reflecting on the considerable time elapsed since her last bout. "I try to stretch as much as I can, but you don’t really know what’s gonna happen when you get out there." She further elaborated on the duality of her feelings, noting, "But in the same way that does feel kind of scary, and as Becky said, a liability in one way, I think it’s an asset." This perspective suggests that while the unknown can be daunting, it also presents an opportunity for a fresh approach or an unexpected advantage. The unpredictability of her performance, stemming from her long absence, could itself become a compelling narrative point for fans, adding an element of intrigue to her comeback.
Lee’s re-engagement with WWE became a more plausible scenario following CM Punk’s reconciliation with the company in late 2023. However, unlike many retired wrestlers who often express a longing for one final taste of glory, Lee had previously appeared genuinely content with her post-wrestling life. Her only other notable foray back into the professional wrestling sphere after her initial WWE departure was in an executive producer role for the "WOW – Women of Wrestling" reboot, indicating a preference for behind-the-scenes contributions rather than in-ring action. This history underscores that her decision to return was not taken lightly and required a compelling reason.
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She further elucidated her motivations, explaining that the prospect of a return had "sort of been something that was in the air for the past couple of years as an option." Yet, her steadfast commitment to retirement was clear. "However, when I retired, I was very comfortable staying retired, and I felt very complete in my career," Lee affirmed. Her return, therefore, required specific criteria to be met: "I’ve always set out to do something, to embark on a new journey, it has to feel brand new and feel like I’m needed, and it has to feel exciting and kind of scary." This statement highlights a desire for meaningful engagement and a challenge that genuinely stimulates her, rather than simply a nostalgic appearance.
While Lee navigates this intricate balance of fear and excitement, her husband, CM Punk, has openly expressed his profound joy at sharing the ring environment with her once more. Punk finds immense comfort and satisfaction in traveling and working alongside his wife, and he has commendably praised her unwavering commitment to rigorous preparation for what promises to be a demanding return match.
"I’m having the time of my life," Punk shared during an interview on the "Pardon My Take" podcast. He humorously added, "I’m like the uber-nerdiest wife guy. I always like to say I try to spend as much time with my wife as I can, and I spend a lot of time with her. And it never feels like it’s enough." His enthusiasm for her return is palpable, describing the situation as a "dream come true" to have her back in this professional setting. Punk’s remarks offer a glimpse into the personal dynamic that underpins this high-profile professional return, suggesting a symbiotic relationship where their personal connection enhances their professional endeavors.
Beyond the emotional aspect, Punk also lauded Lee’s physical dedication. "She’s inspirational, honestly," he stated. "Her willpower, a lot of that’s diet. But she’s also super strong in the gym and she’s, like, lifting heavy weights and busting her ass all the time." This commentary provides crucial insight into the intense training regimen Lee has undertaken to prepare for her comeback, assuring fans that despite the decade-long absence, she is committed to performing at the highest possible level. Such preparation is essential not only for performance but also for injury prevention after such a long layoff.
AJ Lee’s original run in WWE, spanning from her debut in 2007 (in developmental) to her retirement in 2015, established her as one of the most distinctive and influential female performers of her era. Known for her quirky, "geek goddess" persona and her innovative in-ring style, she defied traditional expectations for female wrestlers at the time. She captured the WWE Divas Championship three times, holding the title for a cumulative 406 days, including a record-setting reign of 295 days. This record solidified her as a dominant force and a cornerstone of the women’s division during a period when it was often overshadowed. Her memorable rivalries with performers such as Kaitlyn, Paige, and the Bella Twins produced compelling storylines and showcased her ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. Lee was also a vocal advocate for greater opportunities for women in wrestling, famously challenging WWE management via social media to give women more airtime and better storylines, a move often cited as a precursor to the "Women’s Revolution" that followed shortly after her departure. Her impact extended beyond championship reigns, influencing a generation of aspiring female wrestlers who saw in her a different path to success and a powerful, unconventional voice.
CM Punk’s own tumultuous history with WWE and his dramatic return in November 2023 at Survivor Series in his hometown of Chicago provided the crucial backdrop for Lee’s potential comeback. After a nearly decade-long departure that included a highly publicized and acrimonious split, Punk’s return symbolized a significant mending of fences between the wrestling icon and the company. His current storyline sees him embroiled in high-profile feuds, maintaining his status as one of WWE’s most polarizing and bankable stars. His presence undoubtedly adds a layer of star power and narrative depth to Lee’s return, as their real-life partnership now translates into a compelling on-screen alliance. The shared experience of returning after long absences and overcoming past grievances likely strengthens their bond both personally and professionally within the WWE landscape, offering a unique narrative arc.
The opponents for this monumental tag team match, Seth "Freakin’" Rollins and Becky Lynch, represent the pinnacle of WWE’s current roster. Rollins, a multi-time world champion and one of WWE’s most consistent main event performers, brings an unparalleled level of intensity and athleticism. His "Visionary" persona, characterized by elaborate entrances and a theatrical ring presence, ensures any match he is involved in commands significant attention. Becky Lynch, known as "The Man," is arguably the most successful female superstar of the past decade, having main evented WrestleMania and held numerous championships. Her aggressive style, compelling character work, and connection with the audience make her an incredibly formidable opponent. The pairing of Rollins and Lynch, a real-life couple themselves, creates a dynamic and star-studded opposition for Punk and Lee, elevating the stakes and the perceived challenge for Lee’s first match back. Their combined accolades and current prominence ensure that Lee will be tested against the very best of contemporary WWE, providing a benchmark for her current capabilities.
Wrestlepalooza, scheduled to take place in Indianapolis, is positioned as a significant event on the WWE calendar, though its specific annual standing (e.g., a major pay-per-view or a special one-off event) impacts its overall gravitas. Regardless, the inclusion of a match featuring AJ Lee’s return alongside such prominent figures guarantees a substantial spotlight. Historically, long-term returns in WWE have always generated immense fan interest, from Brock Lesnar’s comeback in 2012 to Shawn Michaels’ unexpected return for a tag team match in 2018. Each instance carries unique pressures and expectations, and Lee’s return after a full decade away places her among an exclusive group of performers making such a dramatic re-entry. The event will not only serve as a stage for her personal challenge but also as a barometer for how her unique style and character will resonate with a new generation of fans and a transformed women’s division, which has seen significant growth and evolution since her departure.
As the countdown to Wrestlepalooza continues, AJ Lee’s candid admission of fear underscores the immense pressure and personal stakes involved in her comeback. Her journey back to the WWE ring is not merely a nostalgic appearance but a calculated decision to embrace a new, challenging chapter, balancing the excitement of rekindled passion with the inherent anxieties of a decade-long absence. The stage is set for a truly historic and emotionally charged return, with all eyes on whether the former Divas Champion can once again ascend to the heights of her past glory and carve out a new legacy in the modern era of professional wrestling.
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