The long-rumored AJ Lee comeback has seemingly been confirmed, as WWE’s official merchandise store appeared to spoil her in-ring return ahead of an anticipated mixed tag team match at Wrestlepalooza on September 20, 2025. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe, eagerly awaiting the return of the three-time Divas Champion and fan favorite.[1][2]

WWE Shop’s Tweet Sparks Confirmation Buzz

On September 3, 2025, the official WWE Shop Twitter (now X) account responded to a fan inquiry about AJ Lee merchandise, stating:

“With AJ Lee’s return to the ring, we are looking to have some 🔥 gear hopefully in time for Wrestlepalooza.”

This response was quickly deleted, but screenshots have circulated widely, effectively confirming that WWE is preparing to welcome AJ Lee back to live TV and merchandise shelves soon[1][4]. WWE Shop’s swift tweet removal suggests it was an accidental leak rather than a planned announcement.

AJ Lee To Team With CM Punk in Mixed Tag Match

Reliable wrestling news sources such as Fightful Select and Wrestling Observer’s Bryan Alvarez report that AJ Lee will return at Wrestlepalooza alongside her husband, CM Punk, facing the team of Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins in a highly anticipated mixed tag team match[2].

This match storyline reportedly stems from recent events on WWE Raw and the 2025 Clash in Paris, where Becky Lynch cost CM Punk the World Heavyweight Championship held by Seth Rollins. The tension between these four superstars has been building, setting the stage for this blockbuster encounter[2][4].

Insider Reports Suggest AJ Lee’s Return Is Just The Beginning

Sources close to WWE have told Wrestling Headlines and Fightful that most of the company’s insiders view AJ Lee’s return as “a forgone conclusion” and expect it to be announced imminent, possibly on the upcoming SmackDown broadcast[2]. Moreover, there is optimism backstage that her return will extend beyond a single show or event, indicating potential ongoing storylines and a refreshed role for her in WWE programming[3].

Why AJ Lee’s Return Matters

AJ Lee retired in 2015 but remained one of the most charismatic and influential female performers in WWE history, credited with elevating the women’s division during her time. Her return signals not only a blast from the past for long-time fans but also WWE’s effort to deepen its current storytelling by reintroducing an established character with high-profile connections like CM Punk[2].

Her finishing move, the “Octopus Stretch,” is expected to make an impact once again, possibly creating memorable moments alongside or against current top stars like Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins, as discussed on popular wrestling podcasts such as WrestleTalk[5].

WWE’s Strategy and Fan Expectations

The merchandise leak highlights a confident WWE strategy to capitalize on the buzz by releasing new AJ Lee gear immediately, suggesting a significant push for her character at Wrestlepalooza and beyond. This aligns with WWE’s pattern of using merchandise launches to signal major returns or story developments[1][4].

Fans are eager for the storytelling possibilities this opens:

• Renewed CM Punk and AJ Lee alliance on WWE TV
• High-stakes mixed tag team feuds involving Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins
• Potential long-term involvement of AJ Lee on WWE programming, beyond Wrestlepalooza

Backstage Sentiment

According to WWE insiders, the enthusiasm backstage is high for AJ Lee’s return. “Everyone’s been buzzing — bringing AJ back with CM Punk is a game-changer and has the potential to electrify the entire women’s division,” a WWE source told Wrestling Headlines. The timing, just ahead of the company’s major events and 2025’s SmackDown episodes, is seen as perfect[2].

What to Watch For Next

• Upcoming SmackDown episodes: The official announcement or debut could happen soon, with WWE typically unveiling surprises on their blue brand.
• Merchandise releases: New AJ Lee gear hitting WWE Shop will likely coincide with her on-screen return.
• Promos and story-building: Expect promos and segments to set the stage for the Wrestlepalooza match.
• Mixed tag team match details: How the storyline develops involving AJ Lee, CM Punk, Becky Lynch, and Seth Rollins.

AJ Lee’s return adds a fresh layer of excitement to WWE’s roster mix heading into fall 2025, and with official merchandise teasers fueling anticipation, the WWE Universe is set for a must-see chapter in women’s wrestling history.

For the latest updates on AJ Lee and Wrestlepalooza 2025, stay tuned to WWE.com, Fightful, and trusted wrestling news outlets.