WWE veteran Natalya recently spoke on the Busted Open radio show, affirming that former Divas Champion AJ Lee appears physically prepared for an in-ring return to WWE. “In my personal, professional opinion, I think she is ready to go. Yeah, absolutely,” Natalya said, noting that Lee looked impressively fit in a photo she saw months ago[1][2]. This endorsement comes as speculation swirls that Lee’s WWE comeback is imminent, possibly at the September 5 SmackDown event in Chicago.

AJ Lee’s Return Fueled By Emotional Motivation

Natalya highlighted that beyond physical readiness, the strongest driver for AJ Lee could be personal motivation, particularly related to her husband CM Punk’s ongoing feud with Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch. Natalya commented on the emotional charge AJ would have if she were standing up for her husband after Becky Lynch slapped Punk in recent encounters:

“If I saw my husband getting slapped by Becky Lynch, Becky Lynch would be having her ass handed to her, the proverbial wrestling sense,” Natalya explained[1][2].

This statement suggests that Lee’s return could be framed as a revenge-driven storyline, intensifying fan interest in the feud and enhancing her comeback significance.

Reports and Industry Buzz on AJ Lee’s WWE Return

Multiple sources, including Fightful Select and WWE insiders, have reported that AJ Lee’s return is more than just rumor. Fightful cites WWE sources stating Lee’s comeback is effectively a “lock” and could be announced on the September 5 Friday Night SmackDown, held in Chicago—both AJ’s and CM Punk’s hometown[1]. The planned narrative reportedly involves a mixed tag team match pitting Lee and Punk against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins at the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event scheduled for September 20[1].

Adding fuel to the fire, WWE Shop briefly posted a tweet referencing new AJ Lee merchandise tied to her return, which was subsequently deleted, seemingly spoiling the surprise and signaling official plans to reintegrate Lee into WWE programming[3].

Backstage Perspectives and Fan Reactions

Sources close to WWE have told PWMania that backstage talent and officials are excited for Lee’s return, considering her past popularity and wrestling skill. Natalya, who runs the modern version of the famed Hart Family Dungeon training school, remarked she’s unaware of the specific training AJ has undergone but trusts Lee’s dedication and potential readiness[2].

Fans and fellow wrestlers have also responded to the rumors with enthusiasm. Former women’s champion Naomi, who is currently on maternity leave, teased on social media that she won’t retire until she sees AJ Lee return to WWE[4], highlighting the widespread anticipation within the locker room and fanbase.

AJ Lee’s Journey From Retirement To Return

AJ Lee’s last WWE in-ring appearance was in 2015. Since then, she stepped back from active competition but remained involved in wrestling through executive production roles, notably with Women of Wrestling (WOW), until her contract lapsed in 2023[3][5]. Her departure from WWE and hiatus from wrestling followed a highly publicized period involving CM Punk’s controversial exit from WWE and subsequent backstage drama.

Recently, Punk’s confrontations with Lynch and Rollins reignited interest in AJ Lee’s involvement, with segments on WWE Raw and SmackDown deliberately planting seeds for her return[3][5]. Her reappearance would mark a significant moment for WWE’s women’s division, potentially leading to marquee matchups and renewed storylines.

What’s Next For AJ Lee In WWE?

Assuming the anticipated announcement at SmackDown unfolds, fans can expect AJ Lee to enter into a high-profile feud with Becky Lynch, likely alongside her husband CM Punk in mixed tag team scenarios. This would mark AJ’s return not just as a competitor but as a pivotal figure in one of WWE’s most intense current storylines.

WWE’s strategy to introduce Lee at a prominent Chicago event suggests the company is positioning her comeback as a major draw, aimed at boosting viewership and live event attendance. Including her in Wrestlepalooza, an emerging marquee event on the WWE calendar, would further emphasize her importance in the company’s future plans.

In summary, Natalya’s endorsement solidifies the narrative that AJ Lee is physically and emotionally ready for a WWE return. Industry reports, WWE Shop’s leaked tweet, and corroborating sources all point toward an imminent comeback announcement at SmackDown in Chicago. AJ Lee’s return is bound to energize WWE’s women’s division and contribute to a hotly anticipated feud involving CM Punk, Becky Lynch, and Seth Rollins.

Reported by a WWE insider and confirmed by Fightful Select, Natalya’s insights reveal firsthand confidence in AJ Lee’s ability to compete at a high level after years away from the ring[1][2]. Fans should keep a close eye on Friday Night SmackDown for official confirmation and further developments.