Last week’s episode of WWE RAW saw a high-profile return as AJ Lee delivered an emotional and candid promo about her ongoing mental health journey, revealing her experience with bipolar disorder and the importance of therapy. However, WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash expressed strong criticism of the segment on his “Kliq This” podcast, feeling the approach and crowd reaction inadvertently trivialized mental health struggles. Meanwhile, in other backstage news, WWE legend Jeff Jarrett addressed the repeated releases of Andrade, suggesting the star needs to self-reflect, and former WWE NXT UK talent Millie McKenzie revealed a serious health downturn battling a rare liver disease.
AJ Lee’s RAW Return Highlights Mental Health Battle
AJ Lee’s much-anticipated return to WWE on September 8 marked her first appearance on RAW in over a decade. The former Divas Champion used the platform to share a deeply personal message about the difficult battles she has faced with her mental health since retiring in 2015. Lee disclosed her diagnosis with bipolar disorder in her early 20s and openly spoke about the therapy and treatment she undertook to recover and manage her condition.
Her promo was heartfelt: “I wasn’t healthy, I needed to take care of myself, get right. I went to therapy, I got treatment, and I found a way to turn all this mental chaos into my superpower,” Lee told the crowd. “The fight is not easy, every day is a fight, but if you’re going through the same thing, that fight is worth it, you’re worth it.” This moment aimed to encourage fans struggling with similar issues to seek help and not feel alone.
The crowd showed support with chants of “therapy,” underscoring the positive impact wrestling figures can have by speaking out on such topics. The segment set up a mixed tag team match featuring AJ Lee and CM Punk against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins at the upcoming WWE Wrestlepalooza event, intensifying the storyline tensions after Lee controversially left the Women’s Intercontinental Championship belt in the ring on SmackDown and attacked Lynch earlier that week[1][3].
Kevin Nash Critiques the Promo’s Perception
Despite the good intentions of AJ Lee’s message, WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash voiced his skepticism during a recent “Kliq This” podcast episode. Nash expressed concern that the promo ended up being misunderstood or even mocked by some in the audience.
“They go on a rampage during a promo and say that while they were off they went and got like therapy and took care of their mental health and the people start chanting therapy. And then you realize that she didn’t go get mental health, that this is a wrestling angle and we’re kind of mocking therapy … this is part of something that we feel is good?” Nash said, questioning the authenticity and impact of integrating mental health storytelling into a wrestling storyline[2][6].
It’s important to note that AJ Lee has a long history of speaking openly about her mental health outside the ring, including in her memoir Crazy Is My Superpower, public interviews, and podcasts where she encourages others to seek help. Nash’s criticism appears to focus on how the wrestling storyline and crowd reaction framed the issue rather than Lee’s actual experiences or advocacy[1][5].
Jeff Jarrett Calls Out Andrade After Multiple WWE Releases
In other backstage news, wrestling veteran Jeff Jarrett shared his opinion on the continued cycling of WWE superstar Andrade through releases and re-signings. Speaking publicly, Jarrett noted that Andrade needs to “look in the mirror” following his multiple firings from the company, implying personal accountability could be a factor behind the repeated setbacks.
Sources close to Jarrett indicate this view stems from frustration over Andrade’s inability to maintain sustained success within WWE despite his evident in-ring talent. Jarrett’s commentary reflects a common industry narrative that professional conduct and adaptability can be as critical as wrestling skill for career longevity[2].
Former WWE Talent Millie McKenzie Faces Health Battle
Adding to the somber tone, ex-NXT UK star Millie McKenzie revealed she is grappling with a serious health crisis. The 25-year-old announced via Instagram that she is battling a rare liver disease requiring urgent medical attention. McKenzie’s condition has worsened as she awaits a suitable donor for a transplant, navigating one of the most challenging times of her life.
Her candid update has rallied support from fans and fellow wrestlers alike, highlighting the vulnerabilities many in the wrestling community face beyond the rigors of the sport itself[2].
Braun Strowman’s New Ventures and Recovery
Meanwhile, Adam Scherr, better known by his WWE ring name Braun Strowman, continues to build his post-WWE career since his May release. Strowman is set to premiere his new show, Everything On The Menu, on USA Network after WWE SmackDown episodes starting October 24. The former universal champion faces his own health battles but remains focused on new opportunities outside the squared circle[2].
The Intersection of Wrestling Storylines and Real-Life Issues
AJ Lee’s RAW promo and Kevin Nash’s response reflect the evolving role WWE and its performers play in discussing important social topics such as mental health. While WWE storylines sometimes blur reality and fiction, the genuine experiences of talents like Lee bring positive awareness. Still, the tricky balance between entertainment and sensitivity was evident in the mixed reactions.
Jeff Jarrett’s critique of Andrade and Millie McKenzie’s public health struggles further remind fans that life beyond the ring is as complex and demanding as in-ring competition. Wrestling remains not just a sport but a reflection of personal battles, growth, and resilience.
As Wrestlepalooza approaches, the industry and fans alike will be watching closely how these narratives continue to unfold, both in the spotlight and behind the scenes.
Sources: WWE.com, Wrestling Headlines, Wrestling Inc., Kliq This podcast, Instagram posts from Millie McKenzie, USA Network announcements