AJ Lee admits it's 'scary' returning at WWE Wrestlepalooza after more than a decade away

The announcement of Lee’s return follows a surprising appearance on WWE programming on September 5, where she aided her husband, CM Punk, in a segment that set the stage for this mixed tag team showdown. This upcoming match at Wrestlepalooza represents not just a comeback for Lee, but a significant event for WWE, bringing together four of the company’s most prominent figures in a rare combination.

Speaking to ESPN about her impending return, Lee, whose real name is April Mendez Brooks, expressed a pragmatic view of the challenges ahead. "It’s been 10 years," she stated. "I try to stretch as much as I can, but you don’t really know what’s gonna happen when you get out there. But in the same way that does feel kind of scary, and as Becky [Lynch] said, a liability in one way, I think it’s an asset." Her sentiment reflects a common challenge for athletes returning after extended periods away from competition: the mental and physical re-adaptation required for peak performance. The "asset" aspect likely refers to the element of surprise and the unpredictable nature that her long absence could bring to her in-ring style, potentially catching opponents off guard.

Lee’s retirement in March 2015 was widely considered definitive at the time. Citing a neck injury and a desire to transition away from the demanding schedule of professional wrestling, she had consistently conveyed a sense of fulfillment regarding her career. Unlike many retired wrestlers who frequently hinted at or pursued one last run, Lee remained largely detached from in-ring competition. Her only significant professional wrestling involvement post-WWE was as an executive producer for the "WOW — Women of Wrestling" reboot, a role that kept her connected to the industry without requiring physical participation. This made her potential return a subject of ongoing speculation but with low immediate probability among industry observers.

The landscape for Lee’s return significantly shifted with CM Punk’s reconciliation and subsequent return to WWE in late 2023. Punk, a former multi-time WWE Champion and a polarizing figure in the industry, had previously departed WWE in 2014 under contentious circumstances. His comeback opened the door for discussions involving his wife, as their careers had often been intertwined during their previous tenures with the company.

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Lee confirmed that her return had been a topic of discussion for some time. "It’s sort of been something that was in the air for the past couple of years as an option," Lee elaborated. "However, when I retired, I was very comfortable staying retired, and I felt very complete in my career. 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 criteria highlights a strategic and personal motivation beyond merely revisiting past glories, suggesting a desire for a meaningful and impactful role rather than a nostalgic appearance.

CM Punk has openly shared his enthusiasm for Lee’s return and the opportunity to compete alongside her. During an appearance on the "Pardon My Take" podcast, Punk expressed his joy: "I’m having the time of my life. 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. So having her be back in this environment with me at work is like a dream come true." He also commended Lee’s dedication to physical preparation for the arduous demands of a WWE match. "She’s inspirational, honestly. 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." These comments underscore the personal significance of this comeback for both individuals, transcending the professional aspect of the sport.

AJ Lee’s professional wrestling career, though relatively short by some standards, was marked by significant achievements and a profound impact on the women’s division. Debuting on WWE’s main roster in 2011, she quickly distinguished herself with a unique character combining eccentricity, athleticism, and a strong anti-heroine persona. She captured the WWE Divas Championship three times, with her first reign lasting an impressive 295 days from June 2013 to April 2014, establishing her as the longest-reigning Divas Champion at that time. This reign was a cornerstone of her career, solidifying her status as a top-tier performer in an era that preceded the formal "Women’s Evolution" but laid much of its groundwork. Lee’s dynamic in-ring style, combined with compelling character work and intricate storylines, helped elevate the perception of women’s wrestling during a period when it often struggled for consistent television time and compelling narratives. Her retirement, therefore, left a void that the company would spend years filling with the rise of new talent.

The opponents for this high-stakes tag team match are formidable. Seth Rollins, a multiple-time WWE Champion, Universal Champion, and a Grand Slam Champion, has been a consistent main event presence for over a decade. Known for his innovative offense, theatrical presentation, and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, Rollins represents one of WWE’s most decorated and reliable performers. His current status often sees him challenging for or holding major championships, making him a perennial threat.

Becky Lynch, a pivotal figure in the "Women’s Evolution," is equally accomplished. A multi-time Raw and SmackDown Women’s Champion, Lynch gained unprecedented popularity as "The Man," leading to her main eventing WrestleMania 35, a historic moment for women’s wrestling. Her aggressive in-ring style, compelling character arc, and ability to connect with audiences have cemented her as one of the most successful and influential female wrestlers of her generation. Both Rollins and Lynch are at the peak of their careers, presenting a significant challenge for Lee, who is returning after a prolonged absence. The fact that both are also a real-life couple adds another layer of intrigue, mirroring the dynamic of Punk and Lee.

WWE Wrestlepalooza, set to take place in Indianapolis, is positioned as a major event on the WWE calendar, drawing significant attention from fans and industry observers. The inclusion of a match of this caliber underscores the event’s importance and WWE’s strategic approach to utilizing star power to generate interest. For AJ Lee, this return is not merely a nostalgic trip but a test of endurance, skill, and adaptability after a decade away from the squared circle. The blend of past accomplishments, present challenges, and future implications positions this match as one of the most anticipated returns in recent WWE history.