AJ Lee dramatically returned to WWE SmackDown on September 5, 2025, marking her first television appearance in over a decade, accompanied by her husband CM Punk. The former Women’s Champion confronted current WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch after Lynch had aggressively targeted Punk in recent shows. Lee’s return reignited WWE’s women’s division intrigue as she chased Lynch from the ring in a fiery segment that electrified fans[1][2][3]. Sources close to WWE have confirmed that AJ Lee has signed a new WWE contract, signaling a significant long-term plan for her involvement[2].

The segment saw CM Punk, embroiled in a heated rivalry with Lynch and Seth Rollins, call upon AJ Lee as an ally during SmackDown. Lee’s return was met with thunderous cheers, as she unleashed an intense assault on Lynch, who had slapped Punk multiple times on RAW and SmackDown. Lee’s in-ring aggression reminded fans of her pioneering role in shaping the modern women’s wrestling scene, with WWE’s official coverage highlighting her “epic” comeback[1][3].

Backstage, WWE Chairman Triple H spoke about AJ Lee’s return, calling it a “major moment for WWE’s women’s division” and praising her passion and charisma. In an exclusive interview emanating from the WWE Performance Center, Triple H expressed excitement over the possibilities AJ’s return creates, hinting at fresh storylines for SmackDown and beyond. “AJ Lee coming back is a reminder of the energy and unpredictability that helped transform women’s wrestling. We’re thrilled to have her rejoin the fold and continue that legacy,” he stated[2].

Meanwhile, inside the WWE women’s locker room, CM Punk reportedly delivered a motivational and strategic message to the female talent. According to Fightful sources, Punk encouraged the women to embrace their roles not only as competitors but also as key storytellers who can shape the future of the division. Punk’s locker room speech was said to focus on unity, resilience, and reclaiming the spotlight for women in WWE. This backstage development is expected to influence upcoming programming and storyline dynamics especially with AJ Lee’s renewed presence acting as a catalyst[2].

In other related news from WWE’s women’s division, Rhea Ripley continues to be a central figure. Ripley recently secured a major win on SmackDown and is being positioned as a future challenger for women’s titles. Reports from wrestling insiders reveal that WWE has big plans for Ripley’s character development, including high-profile feuds and championship pursuits that will run parallel with AJ Lee’s return storyline[2].

The WWE universe has reacted enthusiastically to the news of AJ Lee’s contract signing and appearance, with digital platforms buzzing over potential fresh rivalries and alliances. Fans have hailed her return as a nostalgic yet revitalizing moment, signifying a potential shift in the women’s division landscape heading into the final quarter of 2025[2][3].

Overall, AJ Lee’s return and new contract represent a significant WWE event, combining on-screen action with compelling backstage narratives. With Triple H’s public endorsement, CM Punk’s locker room influence, and Rhea Ripley’s continuing rise, WWE’s women’s division is poised for a dynamic and exciting future.

Key Takeaways:

• AJ Lee returns to WWE SmackDown after more than a decade, attacking Becky Lynch following CM Punk’s call for reinforcements.
• AJ Lee has officially signed a new WWE contract, confirming her long-term commitment to WWE programming.
• WWE Chairman Triple H praised Lee’s comeback, calling it “a major moment” for the women’s division.
• CM Punk delivered a motivational message to the WWE women’s locker room, focusing on unity and storytelling impact.
• Rhea Ripley is receiving a push with plans for high-profile feuds and title opportunities in the coming months.
• Fans and insiders speculate AJ Lee’s return will reshape SmackDown’s women’s division narratives heading into late 2025.

This development promises to energize WWE programming, deepen its women’s division storylines, and create new fan engagement opportunities. AJ Lee’s return is an event that both WWE and wrestling fans worldwide will follow closely in the weeks ahead[1][2][3].