Former Divas Champion AJ Lee Prepares for High-Stakes Return at WWE Wrestlepalooza After Decade-Long Absence

AJ Lee, a pivotal figure in the evolution of WWE’s women’s division, is poised to make her highly anticipated in-ring return at WWE Wrestlepalooza 2025, marking her first competitive match in nearly a decade. The three-time WWE Divas Champion, who last wrestled in March 2015, acknowledged the "scary" nature of her comeback while emphasizing a renewed sense of purpose that compelled her out of a comfortable retirement.

Lee’s path back to the squared circle commenced with a surprise appearance on September 5, 2024, where she intervened to assist her husband, CM Punk, setting the stage for a marquee tag team encounter. This upcoming Wrestlepalooza bout will see the reunited duo of Punk and Lee face off against the formidable pairing of Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch, a match that instantly generated significant buzz across the professional wrestling landscape. The event, scheduled to take place in Indianapolis, represents a significant milestone for both Lee and the WWE.

In a recent interview with ESPN, Lee articulated the complex emotions surrounding her return. "It’s been 10 years," Lee 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 an asset." This candid admission highlights the physical and mental hurdles inherent in returning to elite-level competition after such an extended hiatus, yet also hints at a strategic advantage in her unpredictability.

Lee’s retirement in March 2015, following WrestleMania 31, was perceived by many as definitive. At the time, she expressed contentment with her career achievements, having held the Divas Championship for a then-record 295 consecutive days during her first reign, a record that stood for several years. Her post-WWE endeavors largely shifted away from in-ring competition, with her most notable foray into the wrestling industry being her role as an executive producer for the "WOW – Women of Wrestling" reboot. This position allowed her to contribute to the sport from a creative and developmental standpoint without the physical demands of active competition, reinforcing the impression that her wrestling days were behind her. Unlike many retired wrestlers who often express a yearning for "one last taste of glory," Lee appeared genuinely fulfilled by her career trajectory and comfortable with her decision to step away.

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The possibility of Lee rejoining WWE became more tangible following CM Punk’s high-profile return to the company in late 2023. Punk, whose own tumultuous history with WWE had seen him depart in 2014 and return after nearly a decade, mended fences with the promotion, opening a potential door for his wife. Lee elaborated on the circumstances of her comeback, stating, "It’s sort of been something that was in the air for the past couple of years as an option. 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 underscores a deliberate and thoughtful approach to her return, not merely a spontaneous decision, but one driven by a desire for a fresh challenge that resonates deeply with her personal and professional values.

CM Punk, her tag team partner for Wrestlepalooza, expressed profound enthusiasm regarding his wife’s return. Speaking on the "Pardon My Take" podcast, Punk shared his perspective: "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." Punk also commended Lee’s dedication to physical preparation, adding, "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 highlight the rigorous training regimen Lee has undertaken to prepare her body for the demands of a WWE ring after a significant layoff, mitigating concerns about ring rust and physical readiness.

AJ Lee’s career in WWE was marked by a distinct persona and groundbreaking achievements. Debuting on the main roster in 2011, she quickly distinguished herself with her "Geek Goddess" character, known for her unique blend of quirky charm and intense, often unpredictable, behavior. Her three reigns as Divas Champion collectively cemented her status as a dominant force in the division. Beyond her championship accolades, Lee was instrumental in a period of transition for women’s wrestling in WWE. Her "pipe bomb" promo in 2013, where she criticized the treatment of the Divas division and asserted her worth, is often cited as a precursor to the "Women’s Revolution" that would gain momentum shortly after her departure. Her authenticity and strong in-ring performances resonated with fans, establishing her as a fan favorite and a legitimate competitor.

The opposition at Wrestlepalooza represents the pinnacle of modern WWE. Seth Rollins, a multi-time world champion and one of WWE’s most decorated male competitors of the past decade, brings a high-flying, technical, and intensely theatrical style to the ring. His "Visionary" persona has solidified him as a main event attraction, capable of delivering classic matches against any opponent. Becky Lynch, another cornerstone of WWE’s contemporary women’s division, is a multiple-time women’s champion and arguably one of the most popular female wrestlers of her generation. Her transformation into "The Man" persona propelled her to the main event of WrestleMania 35, where she simultaneously held both the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships. Lynch’s aggressive style, compelling character work, and connection with the audience make her a formidable opponent for Lee’s return. The dynamic between these two established power couples adds an extra layer of intrigue and personal stakes to the Wrestlepalooza encounter.

Wrestlepalooza 2025 is shaping up to be a significant event on the WWE calendar, drawing attention not only for this high-profile tag team match but also for its broader implications regarding the return of veteran talent. The "never say never" adage in professional wrestling is consistently proven true, and Lee’s return underscores the enduring appeal of iconic figures. The physical toll of professional wrestling, particularly after a decade away, presents a significant challenge. However, Punk’s observations about Lee’s dedication to her diet and heavy weight training suggest a methodical and serious approach to her comeback. This preparation will be crucial as she navigates the pace and physicality of a modern WWE match, which has evolved considerably since her last outing.

Lee’s return has broader implications for WWE’s women’s division. It reintroduces a celebrated figure whose unique style and character resonated deeply with a generation of fans. Her presence could potentially open the door for new storylines, dream matches, and provide a bridge between different eras of women’s wrestling within the company. For AJ Lee herself, Wrestlepalooza 2025 is more than just a match; it is a test of will, a validation of her continued passion for the sport, and an opportunity to embark on that "brand new" and "scary" journey she meticulously sought. The anticipation for her performance, blending nostalgia with the unknown, ensures that all eyes will be on Indianapolis as she steps back into the spotlight.

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