After more than a decade away, AJ Lee made a sensational return to WWE on the September 5, 2025, episode of SmackDown, rekindling one of the most electrifying presences in women’s wrestling history. Introduced by her husband and former WWE superstar CM Punk, AJ confronted current Women’s Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch, immediately reigniting a fiery rivalry that fans had long hoped to see renewed. This surprise appearance was accompanied by the news of AJ Lee signing a new WWE contract, signaling a major development in WWE’s women’s division[1][3].

AJ Lee’s return to WWE television took place in front of a roaring crowd at the Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois, a market synonymous with CM Punk’s legacy and AJ’s original rise to stardom. It marked her first appearance inside the WWE ring since WrestleMania 31, where she retired from in-ring competition following CM Punk’s departure from the company in 2014[1]. According to sources close to WWE, the contract signed by AJ includes plans for her to be heavily involved both on-screen and potentially in behind-the-scenes roles, reflecting the company’s renewed commitment to elevating the women’s division with proven stars and fresh storylines[1].

The Return Segment and Becky Lynch Confrontation

The segment began with CM Punk addressing the tension fueled by recent events where Becky Lynch had struck him multiple times on both RAW and SmackDown, intensifying their rivalry. AJ Lee then made her electrifying entrance, confronting Lynch and defending Punk in a long-awaited face-off that had fans buzzing across social media platforms worldwide[2][4]. As AJ chased Becky Lynch out of the ring, their hostile exchange made clear WWE is positioning this renewed feud at the heart of upcoming programming. WWE’s official social media channels captured the moment, with clips quickly going viral under hashtags celebrating AJ’s shocking and welcome comeback[4].

Triple H’s Reaction and Backstage Buzz

WWE Executive Vice President Triple H was reportedly “thrilled” by AJ Lee’s return, viewing it as a catalyst to boost the women’s division’s profile ahead of major upcoming events, including WrestlePalooza, which is expected to feature high-profile women’s matches[1]. According to a WWE insider who spoke anonymously to Fightful, “Triple H sees AJ’s return as not just nostalgia but a strategic move to blend the legacy stars with current talent, giving the locker room a huge morale boost.” Moreover, Triple H’s involvement is expected to smooth AJ’s reintegration into WWE storylines and mentoring younger talents backstage[1].

What CM Punk Told the WWE Women’s Locker Room

Sources revealed that CM Punk has been actively rallying the women’s locker room, emphasizing unity and resilience amidst the ongoing factional battles involving Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch. According to reports from podcasts close to WWE insiders, Punk has been encouraging the women to seize their moment and has been invaluable in motivating both veterans and newer stars. CM Punk’s role as a locker room influencer seems to be growing, particularly with AJ Lee’s return fueling a resurgence in his personal on-screen and off-screen influence[3].

Rhea Ripley’s Latest Developments

In addition to AJ Lee’s headline-grabbing comeback, Rhea Ripley remains a central figure in WWE’s women’s division. Recent backstage reports confirm that Ripley is targeting a major championship opportunity, aligning her ambitions with the shifting power dynamics created by AJ and CM Punk’s return. According to sources familiar with WWE creative plans, Ripley could soon challenge for the Women’s Intercontinental Title or be featured in an angle that intertwines with the AJ Lee/Becky Lynch storyline. Fans can expect Ripley to play a pivotal role as WWE continues to blend rising stars with established icons[1].

Why AJ Lee’s Return Matters for WWE

AJ Lee’s comeback has reignited excitement among the WWE Universe due to her past contribution to women’s wrestling and the Women’s Evolution. Known for her fierce in-ring skill, cutting-edge promos, and deep connection with fans, AJ helped pave the way for today’s generation of women wrestlers during her three-time Divas Championship reign. According to WWE.com, AJ’s return not only brings star power but also expands WWE’s creative flexibility, providing storylines that appeal to longtime fans and new viewers alike[1].

WWE has been deliberately integrating legacy stars to amplify its women’s division, following a decade marked by remarkable growth, including historic all-women events and main-event matches. AJ Lee’s reentry ensures that WWE’s narrative continuity remains strong and that fans get the best mix of nostalgia and fresh athleticism that the modern roster offers[1].

Fan and Media Reaction

The backlash from fans and wrestling media alike has been overwhelmingly positive. Viral clips from SmackDown’s AJ Lee segment have amassed millions of views within hours. Commentators on popular wrestling podcasts and YouTube channels praised WWE’s boldness in bringing back AJ, calling it “a game changer” and applauding the company’s commitment to honoring its past while building for the future[2][3]. The palpable energy in Chicago’s Allstate Arena underscored AJ’s enduring popularity and the high anticipation for forthcoming matches and storyline developments.

What to Expect Next

WWE has already started teasing upcoming encounters that could see AJ Lee involved in high-profile tag or singles matches, potentially involving CM Punk, Becky Lynch, and other members of the evolving women’s roster. With Triple H’s clear backing and creative input, AJ’s role could expand both inside and outside the ring, including mentoring younger talents or participating in special appearances and story arcs during WrestlePalooza and beyond[1].

Industry insiders expect AJ Lee vs. Becky Lynch to dominate WWE programming headlines in the coming months, reaching a crescendo at WrestlePalooza, where both superstars could clash in a marquee matchup for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship or even a new title. Rhea Ripley’s chase for a championship shot adds another layer to what promises to be a compelling and dynamic women’s division storyline[1][3].

According to a WWE insider speaking to Fightful, “AJ Lee’s signing is one of the biggest coups WWE has pulled off in years. It breathes new life into the women’s division and gives us fresh storytelling opportunities that fans crave.”

WWE’s recent moves signal a strategic push to blend legendary talent with rising stars, ensuring both legacy and innovation drive the future of women’s wrestling. AJ Lee’s return is the centerpiece of this exciting new chapter.

This article is based on reports from WWE.com, Fightful, various wrestling podcasts, and live coverage of WWE SmackDown on September 5, 2025.