The intertwined careers of CM Punk and AJ Lee represent one of WWE’s most compelling stories of both on-screen drama and real-life romance. Meanwhile, the WWE Universe recently witnessed an emotional farewell from Asuka, commemorated the release of the rare ’50 Years of Funk’ event, and got new insights from Triple H regarding the upcoming Worlds Collide special. Here’s an in-depth recap covering these highlights in WWE news as of September 2025.

The Complete WWE History of CM Punk & AJ Lee: From Wrestling’s Power Couple to Real-Life Partners

CM Punk (Phil Brooks) and April Jeanette Mendez, known worldwide as AJ Lee, are among WWE’s most iconic and influential figures of the 2010s. Their relationship began through on-screen storylines but quickly blossomed into a genuine romance that has stood the test of time.

On-Screen Beginnings
AJ Lee’s character was pivotal in WWE’s Divas division from her debut in 2010, marked by her “mentally unstable” persona and sharp wit. Her storyline with CM Punk took shape in 2012 during a heated feud involving Daniel Bryan. The two developed a complex backstage romance angle that captivated fans and showcased wrestling storytelling at its finest[3][5].

Championship Success and Star Power
AJ Lee tied with WWE legend Trish Stratus by winning the Divas Championship three times, holding the title for a combined total of 406 days, a record at the time. CM Punk’s career peaked with his infamous 2011 “Pipe Bomb” promo where he broke the fourth wall and criticized WWE management publicly, followed by his memorable WWE Championship reigns[2][3].

Real-Life Love Story
Their on-screen chemistry transitioned into real life, culminating with a private wedding on June 13, 2014. Significantly, WWE sent CM Punk his termination papers on the same day, adding bitterness to what should have been a joyful occasion[1]. AJ Lee stayed with WWE for months after, eventually retiring from in-ring competition in 2015 due to health concerns, mainly spinal injuries[1][3].

Legacy & Recent Returns
AJ Lee’s return to WWE in September 2025 has reignited interest in the couple’s story. Fans and critics alike have celebrated her stunning comeback, with Fightful and other sources highlighting the “crazy is our superpower” mantra that cemented AJ’s unique place in wrestling history[4][5]. Outside wrestling, AJ has also built a respectable career as a writer and creative, even co-writing the Netflix film Blade of the 47 Ronin.

Asuka’s Emotional Farewell: WWE Bids Goodbye to a Legend

Recently, WWE Universe watched Asuka’s heartfelt farewell. Asuka has been a cornerstone of WWE’s women’s division, famous for her undefeated streak and fierce fighting style since debuting on the main roster in 2017. Her departure marks the end of an era, celebrated by peers and fans alike.

Backstage sources told WWE.com that Asuka’s exit was planned amicably to allow her to explore new career opportunities while leaving the door open for a potential future return. The farewell featured touching video packages and tributes from fellow wrestlers, underscoring her impact both in and out of the ring.

Rare Release: WWE Vault Unveils ‘50 Years of Funk’ Event

For wrestling historians and hardcore fans, WWE Vault’s recent release of the full ’50 Years of Funk’ event from Amarillo, Texas (1997) is a treasure. This event, promoted by the late Terry Funk, features legendary bouts including a WWF Championship match between Bret Hart and Funk, which was billed as Funk’s retirement match.

WWE has made the event available exclusively on their YouTube channel, giving modern audiences a direct glimpse of wrestling history. Triple H praised the release during an interview, stating it preserves wrestling’s rich culture while educating younger fans about the sport’s roots.

Triple H Speaks on Worlds Collide: A Celebration of WWE’s Global Talent

In recent media appearances and podcasts, WWE’s Chief Content Officer Triple H has shared exciting details about the Worlds Collide event. Described as a showcase uniting stars from Raw, SmackDown, and NXT, Worlds Collide emphasizes WWE’s blended roster and athleticism across brands.

Triple H mentioned the event aims to deliver “fresh matchups and storylines” that cross usual brand boundaries, creating a unique narrative experience for fans and a platform for emerging talent to shine. WWE.com confirms Worlds Collide will feature high-stakes matches that promise to shape the company’s direction forward.

Behind the Scenes: Insider Perspectives

Sources close to the industry reveal that the timing of CM Punk’s release on his wedding day was not coincidental. According to Fightful, it was an intentional message from WWE management during a turbulent period. Conversely, AJ Lee’s continued presence at WWE amidst this turmoil helped stabilize the company’s Divas division at that time.

AJ Lee’s return has reportedly been driven by her desire to reconnect with fans and contribute creatively. Insider interviews suggest her comeback story may serve as a blueprint for future talent balancing in-ring performance with broader cultural influence.

This comprehensive look at recent and historical WWE news—from CM Punk and AJ Lee’s relationship saga to celebrated farewells and archival releases—reflects the dynamic narratives driving modern professional wrestling. WWE’s blend of legacy and innovation continues to excite a global audience, with surprises like AJ Lee’s return and rare historical footage enriching the fan experience.

As WWE evolves, these stories remain a testament to the personalities and moments that define this global entertainment phenomenon.