The world of professional wrestling thrives on shocking returns, unexpected twists, and the nostalgia of legendary figures stepping back into the ring. In recent weeks, speculation has been running wild about the possible return of former three-time Divas Champion AJ Lee, a name synonymous with WWE’s women’s division in the early 2010s. With WrestleMania 41 on the horizon, WWE Hall of Famer John “Bradshaw” Layfield (JBL) recently fueled these rumors by discussing the massive impact AJ Lee’s return could have on the industry.
This potential comeback is even more intriguing given the ongoing rivalry between AJ Lee’s husband, CM Punk, and Seth Rollins. As Punk and Rollins engage in one of the most personal feuds in recent WWE history, the mention of Becky Lynch in their war of words has intensified the storyline. Could AJ Lee’s return be more than just speculation? If she steps back into the squared circle, what could it mean for WWE, the women’s division, and her legacy? Let’s dive deep into her career, her abrupt retirement, and the implications of her rumored return.
AJ Lee: A Legacy That Defined an Era
Born April Jeanette Mendez, AJ Lee made her WWE debut in 2010, quickly capturing the attention of fans with her unique persona, charismatic promos, and in-ring abilities. Unlike the stereotypical “Diva” of that time, AJ Lee embodied the spirit of an underdog, connecting with the WWE Universe in a way few female wrestlers had before. Her “crazy chick” persona, coupled with her exceptional wrestling skills, made her one of the most compelling figures in WWE’s women’s division.
Championship Reigns and Career Highlights
AJ Lee captured the Divas Championship three times, holding the title for a record-setting 295 days in one of her reigns. She feuded with some of the top female wrestlers of her era, including Paige, The Bella Twins, and Kaitlyn. Her infamous “Pipe Bombshell” promo in 2013, where she called out the WWE Divas for being “models instead of wrestlers,” solidified her status as one of the most outspoken and revolutionary figures in women’s wrestling.
Her partnership and subsequent rivalry with Paige in 2014-2015 marked a turning point for women’s wrestling, laying the groundwork for the “Women’s Revolution” that WWE would fully embrace in the years to come.
Abrupt Retirement and Life After WWE
In April 2015, AJ Lee shocked the wrestling world by announcing her retirement from in-ring competition. The decision came after her husband, CM Punk, had publicly clashed with WWE over his departure, leading many to speculate that company politics played a role in AJ’s exit. However, injuries and a desire to focus on other endeavors also contributed to her decision.
Since leaving WWE, AJ Lee has found success as an author, activist, and mental health advocate. Her memoir, Crazy Is My Superpower, became a bestseller, further cementing her impact beyond the wrestling ring.
Why WrestleMania 41 Is the Perfect Stage for AJ Lee’s Return
WrestleMania is known for its jaw-dropping moments, shocking returns, and career-defining matches. If AJ Lee were to make her long-awaited return to WWE, there is no bigger stage than WrestleMania 41. But why now?
CM Punk’s Feud with Seth Rollins: A Personal War
The most compelling reason for AJ’s potential return ties directly to CM Punk’s ongoing feud with Seth Rollins. The rivalry between the two has been brewing for years, fueled by real-life tension and on-screen animosity. Leading up to their Steel Cage Match on RAW, Punk and Rollins have exchanged brutal words in promos, with Punk escalating the feud by mentioning Rollins’ wife, Becky Lynch.
During a fiery promo, Punk provocatively addressed Lynch, saying, “Becky, you better get your husband before I put The Visionary in a wheelchair.” This remark struck a nerve, pushing Rollins to retaliate with equal intensity. When real-life relationships are incorporated into WWE storylines, they often lead to blockbuster matches with high stakes.
Becky Lynch vs. AJ Lee: A Dream Match in the Making?
If AJ Lee does return, the biggest potential match would be against Becky Lynch. Lynch is arguably the biggest female star WWE has ever produced, and a clash between her and AJ Lee would be nothing short of historic. Both women have been instrumental in revolutionizing women’s wrestling, but they never had the chance to cross paths in WWE.
AJ Lee retired just months before the official start of the Women’s Revolution, missing out on the opportunity to compete against the likes of Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, and Sasha Banks. A return now could provide a dream match that fans never thought they would see.
What Would AJ Lee’s Return Mean for WWE?
If AJ Lee steps back into the WWE ring, the impact would be felt across multiple levels:
1. Elevating the Women’s Division
The women’s division in WWE has reached new heights, but bringing back a pioneer like AJ Lee would further legitimize its evolution. She could serve as both a competitor and a mentor to rising stars such as Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair, and Liv Morgan.
2. Strengthening CM Punk’s Storyline
With her husband CM Punk at the center of WWE’s biggest feud, AJ Lee’s return could add a fascinating dynamic to the storyline. Could we see a mixed tag match featuring CM Punk & AJ Lee vs. Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch? The possibility alone is electrifying.
3. Setting Up a Hall of Fame Induction
A comeback could pave the way for AJ Lee’s rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame. Given her contributions to women’s wrestling, an induction would be a fitting way to honor her career.
4. Fan Excitement and Ratings Boost
AJ Lee’s return would undoubtedly create a surge in ratings and ticket sales. WWE has capitalized on nostalgia-driven returns in the past (Edge, Lita, Trish Stratus), and bringing AJ Lee back would generate tremendous buzz.
Challenges and Roadblocks: Will AJ Lee Actually Return?
While the rumors are exciting, there are challenges that could prevent AJ Lee from making a return to WWE:
1. Injuries and Physical Condition
AJ Lee retired in part due to neck injuries, and stepping back into the ring after nearly a decade would require significant physical preparation.
2. Relationship with WWE Management
Her departure in 2015 was clouded by controversy, largely due to CM Punk’s fallout with WWE. While Punk has since returned, it remains uncertain whether AJ Lee is willing to mend fences.
3. Other Career Commitments
AJ Lee has been successful outside of wrestling, particularly as an author and mental health advocate. Would she be willing to put those endeavors on hold for a WWE comeback?
Final Thoughts: Will AJ Lee Walk Back Through the WWE Curtain?
As WrestleMania 41 approaches, the possibility of AJ Lee’s return remains one of the most intriguing topics in professional wrestling. With JBL teasing her comeback and CM Punk’s feud with Seth Rollins escalating, the timing seems perfect for her to step back into the limelight.
Whether she returns for one match, a short run, or a full-time comeback, one thing is certain: AJ Lee’s presence in WWE would be nothing short of legendary. Her return would not only give fans a dream match against Becky Lynch but also solidify her legacy as one of the greatest female wrestlers of all time.
Only time will tell if AJ Lee will shock the world once again, but if she does, WrestleMania 41 could become one of the most unforgettable events in WWE history.
