AJ Lee has made a sensational return to the WWE after a decade away from the squared circle, marking a major moment in professional wrestling history. On September 5, during an episode of SmackDown in her husband CM Punk’s hometown of Chicago, AJ re-entered the WWE universe to the delight of her fans. Her comeback is not just a personal triumph but also a significant event in the ongoing narrative of women’s wrestling, where her presence shines a spotlight on the growth and evolution of female performers in the industry.
AJ Lee’s Return: Background and Context
AJ Lee’s departure from the WWE in April 2015 came after a decorated career, where she emerged as one of the top stars in the women’s division. During her brief four-year stint on the main roster, she won the Divas Championship three times, tying her for the most reigns in that title’s history. Lee was known for her unique character—a blend of quirky, unstable persona and compelling promo skills—that captivated audiences and added depth to the women’s division during the early 2010s.
Retiring due to health concerns related to her cervical spine, AJ transitioned away from in-ring competition, dedicating her time to writing and serving as an executive producer for Women of Wrestling. While fans cherished her autobiography, "Crazy Is My Superpower," they continued to hope for her return, especially as whispers circulated in the wrestling community about a possible comeback, particularly after her husband CM Punk returned to the WWE earlier this year.
The Build-Up to Her Return
AJ’s return was carefully crafted within the WWE storyline. In the lead-up to her appearance, tensions escalated between CM Punk and Seth Rollins, who sparked a heated rivalry intensified by the involvement of Becky Lynch. Following Lynch’s interference in Punk’s title match at Clash in Paris, which ultimately led to Lynch’s husband retaining the championship, fans speculated about AJ’s potential return, especially after Punk hinted at something significant happening during SmackDown.
By introducing AJ in this context, WWE not only capitalized on nostalgia but also reinforced the narrative that the women’s division continues to thrive and evolve. Lee’s entrance provided a much-needed boost, positioning her as an ally to Punk as they prepare to face Lynch and Rollins at the upcoming WrestlePalooza event on September 20.
Impact on Women’s Wrestling
AJ Lee’s return is significant in highlighting the evolution of women’s wrestling, especially in the context of WWE’s recent emphasis on presenting female athletes as equal to their male counterparts. In recent years, WWE has placed a greater focus on storytelling, athleticism, and character development among its female performers. With female superstars like Charlotte Flair discussing the growth seen in events like WWE Evolution 2, AJ’s return exemplifies the continued momentum of women’s wrestling in the mainstream.
In the early 2010s, AJ Lee played a pivotal role in advocating for women’s wrestling, and her presence today symbolizes a connection to that lineage. As she teams up with Punk, her story intertwines with the burgeoning narrative of women in wrestling, especially at a time when events like WrestlePalooza are set to showcase women in high-stakes matches on prominent platforms.
Lee’s Future in WWE
The question of what lies ahead for AJ Lee in WWE is an engaging one. Her immediate storyline with CM Punk and their confrontation with Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch sets the stage for intriguing matches, but her long-term role remains to be seen. Will she take on a broader role in the women’s division? Could her influence extend beyond just in-ring competition to mentoring younger talent while also possibly taking part in creative initiatives behind the scenes?
Considering her proficiency and experience—both in wrestling and as a writer—there’s a strong chance that AJ will continue to shape narratives within WWE, whether inside the ring or behind the scenes. Her involvement could certainly catalyze other women to rise to prominence alongside fellow talents.
AJ Lee: A Symbol of Progress
AJ Lee’s return is emblematic of not only her personal journey but also the broader evolution of wrestling as a medium for women. Having played a fundamental role during a pivotal time in WWE, her comeback reflects the increasing acceptance and portrayal of female athletes as multifaceted characters. The narrative surrounding her and Punk is layered with the complexities of relationships in wrestling, power struggles, and professional ambitions.
In conclusion, AJ Lee’s return to WWE after ten years is a monumental moment for wrestling fans and a significant development for the women’s division. As she steps back into the ring alongside her husband, CM Punk, they reignite longstanding rivalries while showcasing the empowerment and evolution of female wrestlers in the industry. Fans can only anticipate the exceptional storylines that lie ahead, adding another compelling chapter to the ever-evolving saga of wrestling. As WWE continues to develop its women’s division, the stage is set for AJ’s unique contributions to the sport, promising a bright future not just for her but for female performers as a whole.
