Former WWE star Saraya, known to fans worldwide as Paige, recently opened up about what she considers one of the most defining and magical moments of her wrestling career — her time working alongside AJ Lee, whom she affectionately calls her “fairy godmother.” Their powerful alliance and memorable rivalry left an indelible mark on WWE programming and fans alike, with both stars continuing to inspire conversations about a possible WWE comeback.
Saraya’s journey on WWE’s main roster began in 2014, bursting onto the scene by capturing the Divas Championship from AJ Lee on the RAW after WrestleMania 30. From the outset, their dynamic was electric, combining fierce competition with a nuanced storyline that blurred the lines between allies and adversaries. Saraya recently recounted this period in depth during her appearance on Sports Illustrated’s The Takedown podcast and in her new memoir Hell in Boots: Clawing My Way Through Nine Lives.
AJ Lee: Saraya’s Mentor and “Fairy Godmother”
Saraya credits AJ Lee as a critical figure in her early WWE success and personal development on the road. “She definitely helped me big time when I first came on the road,” Saraya revealed. “It’s very intimidating, and she let me travel with her and kind of took me under her wing.” According to Saraya, AJ acted as a mentor and protector during the challenging first year of navigating WWE’s rigorous touring schedule. In a heartfelt gesture, AJ gifted Saraya a pair of Doc Martens boots adorned with the Union Jack for her first UK tour, symbolizing support beyond the confines of wrestling storylines[1][4].
Their relationship was so pivotal that Saraya dubbed AJ her “fairy godmother,” a nickname reflecting AJ’s nurturing role behind the scenes. “She mothered me. She took care of me, and I was so grateful for her,” Saraya said, emphasizing not only the professional but deeply personal nature of their connection[1][4]. AJ Lee has publicly reciprocated this affection, referring to Saraya as her “fairy goddaughter” on social media and praising her accomplishments, especially in light of Saraya’s recent departure from AEW and the release of her book[3].
A Lasting WWE Legacy: Frenemies and Fan Favorites
During their WWE tenure together, Saraya and AJ Lee crafted one of the era’s most memorable storylines. Their “frenemies” angle, blending rivalry with underlying friendship, captured fans’ imaginations and remains a high point of WWE programming from that period. Saraya acknowledged the lasting impact of their short but impactful run: “People absolutely loved it. People talk about it still to this day.” This continued fan enthusiasm has fueled rumors and hopes over the possibility of the two sharing the ring again, either as opponents or allies[1][2].
Speculation of WWE Return and Reunions
With Saraya recently departing AEW in 2025 after a notable run and AJ Lee’s husband, CM Punk, once again headlining major WWE events such as WrestleMania 41, speculation about the duo’s WWE future is rife. Saraya herself has not ruled out a WWE return, and there has been considerable fan and media anticipation around the prospect of a reunion or tag team involving Saraya and AJ Lee[1][2].
Sources close to Saraya revealed that discussions about potential projects with WWE are ongoing, fueled partly by the positive response to her memoir and heightened interest in her wrestling narrative. “If we ever were to have like a reunion in wrestling, it would be really special,” Saraya said, signaling openness to revisiting her defining partnership with AJ Lee[1].
The Impact of Their Bond Beyond Wrestling
What sets Saraya and AJ Lee apart isn’t solely their in-ring accomplishments but the genuine bond forged behind the scenes during formative career moments. Saraya’s candid remarks in interviews and podcasts underscore how integral mentorship and camaraderie are for young wrestlers navigating the complexities of life on the road.
Their story illustrates the vital role veteran wrestlers play in supporting newcomers, offering guidance that transcends scripted rivalries to create lifelong friendships. The “fairy godmother” analogy encapsulates AJ Lee’s nurturing influence, showcasing how acts of kindness and mentorship shape professional wrestling’s human side.
Looking Ahead
While AJ Lee has not wrestled since her retirement from WWE in 2015, her legacy endures through her relationships with stars like Saraya and the continued affection from fans and industry insiders alike[2]. As for Saraya, her post-AEW career opportunities remain open, with WWE a possible future destination — especially if it means rekindling her chemistry with AJ Lee.
Sources close to WWE and Saraya suggest that a return, whether for a one-off match or a longer storyline arc, could capitalize on nostalgia and the enduring popularity of their legendary chemistry[1][2]. The wrestling world will be watching closely, hopeful for the “magical” reunion that once captivated millions.
Backstage Insights
According to a WWE insider quoted by Fightful, “AJ has always been a guide and a protector for talent around her, and the bond with Saraya is something really special — it’s clear they lifted each other up during pivotal times.” The insider added that WWE creative is “keenly aware” of fan interest in seeing the duo back in action, although no concrete plans have yet been announced.
In sum, Saraya’s reflections on her time with AJ Lee reveal a story of mentorship, respect, and gratitude, highlighting a precious chapter in WWE’s modern history — one fans are eager to see continue in some shape or form.
This article incorporates information from WWE.com, Sports Illustrated’s The Takedown, Wrestling Inc., WrestleTalk, and credible wrestling news sources to provide an authoritative look at Saraya and AJ Lee’s unique bond and their potential impact on the wrestling industry’s near future.