After a decade-long absence, AJ Lee’s return to WWE on the September 5th episode of Friday Night SmackDown sent shockwaves through the wrestling world and instantly reignited excitement among fans and insiders alike[1][2]. The former three-time WWE Divas Champion’s surprise comeback marks one of the most significant moments in recent WWE history and opens the door for several dream matches that fans have been clamoring for over the years. With AJ Lee now officially back in the fold and set to compete in upcoming events like Wrestlepalooza, speculation about her potential opponents and matchups is reaching a fever pitch.

AJ Lee’s Triumphant Return: Setting the Stage

AJ Lee’s return was not just a nostalgic moment — it was a statement. She interrupted an intense showdown between top WWE stars, stealing the Women’s Intercontinental Championship from Becky Lynch and announcing her presence with confidence and flair on SmackDown[2][4]. Following her televised return, WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque publicly shared a video of AJ Lee signing her new contract, signaling that this comeback is no fleeting guest appearance but the start of a full-fledged WWE run[1].

According to sources close to the company, AJ Lee’s new deal includes plans for high-profile matches, and insiders have hinted that she will be featured prominently on major pay-per-view cards, especially the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event on September 20[1]. Already, she is scheduled to team up with her husband, CM Punk, in a mixed tag match against Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch — a dynamic feud setup drawing intense anticipation from fans[2].

Dream Match #1: AJ Lee vs. Becky Lynch – Redemption and Rivalry Renewed

The most immediate and high-profile dream match is undoubtedly AJ Lee versus Becky Lynch, rekindling a rivalry that the WWE Universe has long desired to see settled inside the ring. Their recent on-screen conflict kicked off AJ’s return storyline, with Lynch demanding her title back and Rollins reluctantly accepting a tag match challenge[2][4].

Their past history, along with their mutual intensity and strong fan followings, promises a gripping encounter filled with psychological warfare and high-octane action. This matchup represents more than just a title battle — it’s a clash of two of WWE’s most iconic women of their respective eras, and fans are already chanting “therapy!” during AJ’s promos, an homage to her past and personal journey[2].

Dream Match #2: AJ Lee vs. Sasha Banks – Generational Showdown

Another dream bout that fans and commentators have frequently discussed is a potential clash between AJ Lee and Sasha Banks. Both are known for their technical prowess, charisma, and ability to tell compelling stories in the ring. AJ’s return offers a golden opportunity to connect past female wrestling legends with today’s talent.

Industry podcasts and analysts from sources like Sportskeeda have speculated that such a matchup could elevate the women’s division and inspire the next wave of wrestlers by showcasing contrasting styles — AJ’s agility and unpredictability versus Sasha’s street-fighting edge[3]. A match between them could headline any major WWE event and potentially redefine women’s wrestling standards.

Dream Match #3: AJ Lee & CM Punk Mixed Tag Team vs. Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch – Ultimate Showdown

Already confirmed is the mixed tag team match featuring AJ Lee and CM Punk against Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch at Wrestlepalooza, but this setup itself qualifies as a dream scenario[2][4].

This bout combines some of the company’s biggest names into one electrifying contest. With stakes high on both sides and plenty of personal history, expectations for this match are sky-high. According to WWE.com and Fightful reports, the company is betting heavily on this mixed tag showdown to deliver emotionally charged wrestling action and narrative continuity for multiple storylines[1][2]. The chemistry and real-life dynamic between AJ and Punk only add authenticity and excitement to this matchup.

AJ Lee’s Impact Beyond the Ring

AJ Lee’s return is not solely about matches; it also signals a broader shift in WWE’s approach to women’s wrestling. In her return promo, AJ candidly shared her ten-year journey away from wrestling, focusing on mental health and self-care — a message that has resonated deeply with the wrestling community and mainstream audiences alike[2].

This openness is helping to reshape portrayals of female superstars in WWE, blending athleticism with authentic personal stories. As noted in analysis by Sportskeeda, AJ’s reemergence is inspiring a new generation of performers and fans to embrace more layered, complex characters in wrestling[3].

What’s Next for AJ Lee?

With her contract inked officially — as confirmed by a Triple H video post on social media — the next few months will be critical in defining AJ’s role in WWE moving forward[1]. WWE insiders suggest she will play a pivotal part in elevating the women’s division and possibly participating in more mixed tag scenarios and high-stakes singles matches.

WWE plans to capitalize on the momentum built by AJ’s return by positioning her in storylines that not only engage fans but also showcase her in-ring skill and character work, blending nostalgia with fresh rivalries[1][5].

Behind the Scenes: WWE Insider Insights

According to a WWE insider speaking to PW Mania, the company kept AJ Lee’s return heavily guarded, understanding its potential to be a ratings and fan engagement milestone. “AJ coming back after all these years is like lightning in a bottle — WWE is building a whole new chapter around her, mixing the old-school with today’s top talent. They want to make sure her return is both impactful and sustainable,” the source revealed.

Similarly, Fightful reports that backstage feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with wrestlers eager for AJ to share her experience and elevate match quality across the women’s division[1].

Final Thoughts

AJ Lee’s return to WWE after 10 years is more than just a nostalgic blast; it’s the beginning of a fresh, compelling era for both her and WWE’s women’s division. The potential dream matches against Becky Lynch, Sasha Banks, and the mixed tag team bout alongside CM Punk versus Lynch and Rollins are primed to be show-stealers for the coming months.

With WWE committed to maximizing this momentum, fans can expect AJ Lee to be a central figure in WWE programming well beyond her debut match, driving storylines with intensity and showcasing why she remains one of the most beloved and exciting female wrestlers in WWE history.

For ongoing coverage of AJ Lee’s WWE return and wrestling news, stay tuned to WWE.com, Fightful, and our dedicated wrestling news channels.