Fans of WWE were thrilled when AJ Lee made her long-awaited return to the company in early September 2025, marking a major moment for both the wrestling world and the former three-time Divas Champion herself. According to wrestling legend Tommy Dreamer, AJ’s comeback is not only a gift to the WWE Universe but also a meaningful step for AJ personally, creating a “mutual benefit” that delivers closure and renewed energy for all involved.

On September 5, AJ Lee returned to WWE SmackDown alongside her husband CM Punk, making an immediate impact by confronting Women’s Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins in a dramatic segment that instantly set the tone for her comeback[1][4]. This led to an even bigger moment a few days later when AJ appeared on Monday Night Raw, her first Raw appearance in over a decade[1][6].

The Mutual Benefit of AJ Lee’s Return: Tommy Dreamer’s Perspective

During a recent podcast interview, Tommy Dreamer, a respected WWE Hall of Famer and longtime friend of AJ Lee, opened up about the significance of AJ’s return. Dreamer emphasized that this comeback serves both the fans and AJ herself. He said, “AJ’s return isn’t just a nostalgic moment for fans who have missed her; it’s a pivotal chapter for her personally—to close one door and open another with WWE”[3].

Dreamer noted that AJ’s original run was marked by intense fan support but also challenges that made her departure bittersweet. “For her, this is about reclaiming her story on her terms, and for the fans, it’s about seeing a beloved talent return to the spotlight where she truly belongs,” he added[3].

What AJ Lee’s Return Means for WWE and the Fans

AJ Lee’s reappearance has quickly turned heads not only because of her undeniable charisma and in-ring talent but also for what it signifies within the larger WWE landscape. After an absence of nearly ten years, AJ’s return brings a fresh jolt to the women’s division, which has evolved tremendously since her initial departure.

Her alliance with CM Punk and their combined confrontation of major stars Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins adds a compelling narrative layer. According to WWE.com, this points toward high-stakes matchups, including a potential showdown at the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event[1][2]. Fans are especially excited given AJ’s reputation for blending raw emotion with technical wrestling skill, which could push storylines and in-ring performances to new heights.

Moreover, WWE insiders and insiders close to AJ revealed that returning now allows her to engage with the sport she loves while tapping into her own creative evolution. Sources close to Cody Rhodes’ podcast discussed WWE’s new era under Triple H’s leadership, describing AJ’s return as symbolic of WWE’s openness to blending legacy stars with rising talent for a richer product[3].

AJ Lee’s Impact on Women’s Wrestling and WWE’s Future Direction

AJ Lee was considered a trailblazer during her original WWE tenure, known for redefining what it means to be a female wrestling superstar beyond the “Divas” label. Her influence on women’s wrestling helped pave the way for the current era’s emphasis on athleticism and storytelling.

Her return in 2025 has reignited conversations about the evolution of women’s wrestling and WWE’s commitment to honoring its past while moving forward. Industry analysts suggest that her presence boosts WWE’s efforts to balance nostalgia with innovation in its programming, which notably includes WWE’s increased visibility on major streaming platforms like Netflix and Peacock[1][5].

Behind-the-Scenes: How WWE Set the Stage for AJ’s Return

The buildup to AJ Lee’s return was marked by carefully crafted storylines and surprise segments that built anticipation without revealing too much. WWE’s strategic marketing, including teasers on WWE Now and exclusive online segments, ensured that fans worldwide were ready for her comeback[5].

During the SmackDown episode where AJ appeared, the segment was noted for its tight scripting and emotional resonance, capturing the attention of longtime fans and new viewers alike[4]. The following Raw appearance further ignited excitement by including a confrontation with Becky Lynch, solidifying AJ’s place back in the heart of WWE storylines[6].

According to WWE insiders, the company was deliberate in aligning AJ’s return with current WWE stars to create instant chemistry and meaningful feuds, a move that sets the stage for AJ not just as a one-time guest but a significant player moving forward[1][3].

Fans React: High Praise and Optimism

The WWE Universe quickly voiced their enthusiasm across social media and fan forums, celebrating the return of AJ Lee as both “iconic” and “necessary” for the women’s division. Many praised WWE’s decision to bring back a fan favorite who helped shape women’s wrestling’s modern era.

Podcasts like Before My Head Explodes with Vince Russo and Coach & Bro Live dissected AJ’s reintroduction, debating the storytelling potential and how WWE can maximize her impact. There was a consensus that AJ’s return strategically bridges WWE’s rich history with its future ambitions[3].

What’s Next for AJ Lee in WWE?

Looking ahead, AJ Lee is poised to play a multi-dimensional role in WWE’s evolving landscape. With rumored matches at Wrestlepalooza and possible long-term story arcs with Becky Lynch, Seth Rollins, and perhaps other emerging stars, the opportunities are plentiful.

Additionally, industry sources suggest that AJ might also take on mentoring or backstage roles that could leverage her deep wrestling knowledge and charisma, adding value beyond just in-ring appearances[3].

Final Thoughts

AJ Lee’s return to WWE is a rare moment where the company, the fans, and the returning superstar all benefit. Tommy Dreamer’s insights highlight that this is more than a nostalgia trip—it’s a carefully timed convergence that respects AJ’s legacy while setting a promising stage for new chapters.

As the WWE Universe eagerly anticipates upcoming shows featuring AJ, it’s clear that this comeback resonates deeply, capturing the hearts of fans and reigniting a beloved star’s passion for the squared circle.

AJ Lee’s return reminds us that some stories are worth revisiting—and when done right, they can be powerful for everyone involved.

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