The wrestling world is buzzing after the WWE Shop official social media account seemingly spoiled one of the biggest surprises in recent years: the in-ring return of former three-time Divas Champion AJ Lee. A now-deleted post from the WWE Shop account hinted at upcoming new AJ Lee merchandise, strongly suggesting that WWE is preparing for her highly anticipated comeback[1]. This revelation aligns with multiple credible reports confirming AJ Lee’s imminent WWE return, which is set to happen at the September 20 Wrestlepalooza event.

AJ Lee’s Return Confirmed by Multiple Sources

Reports from respected wrestling journalists and insider sources have confirmed that AJ Lee will make her in-ring return alongside her husband CM Punk in a mixed tag team match against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins at Wrestlepalooza[2][4]. Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer Live was among the first to confirm the news, stating that this return is not just a one-off appearance, but part of WWE’s wider plan to reintegrate AJ Lee into storylines[1]. Fightful Select corroborated this, noting that WWE expects to announce or feature AJ Lee on the upcoming SmackDown episode taking place in Chicago—both AJ’s and Punk’s hometown—on September 5[2].

Wrestling fans have eagerly awaited AJ Lee’s return for years. She last wrestled in March 2015 during a six-woman tag match on Raw before retiring due to injury concerns and personal reasons. Her hiatus was extended by CM Punk’s acrimonious departure from WWE in 2014, which AJ once stated left her feeling “caught in the middle” of backstage politics[4]. Now, tensions aside, WWE seems ready to welcome back one of the most captivating women’s wrestlers from the past decade.

Backstage Reactions and Roster Excitement

Sources close to WWE and Fightful Select reveal that the backstage atmosphere surrounding AJ Lee’s return is overwhelmingly positive[2]. Many younger women on the roster, who grew up idolizing AJ, have expressed excitement about working with her. Additionally, some veteran talents who never had the chance to team with AJ during her original run were taken by surprise, as CM Punk had previously played down talks of her return—not out of opposition, but out of respect for AJ’s decisions[1].

The potential reintroduction of AJ Lee is viewed by WWE officials and talent alike as a valuable boost to the women’s division, bringing star power and renewed fan interest. The upcoming mixed tag match with CM Punk vs. Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins at Wrestlepalooza is expected to be a high-profile attraction, especially given the event’s significance as WWE’s first pay-per-view airing on ESPN[4].

What This Means for Wrestlepalooza and WWE’s Future

Wrestlepalooza will now mark a milestone as the event featuring the highly anticipated return of AJ Lee. The match is significant not just for AJ’s comeback, but also because it pits some of WWE’s biggest stars against one another, promising electrifying storytelling and in-ring action. This event comes at a time when WWE is ramping up its competition with AEW, as AEW’s All Out will be held the same night[5].

According to a WWE insider, “AJ’s return is a game-changer. The company is planning to build more storylines around her, and her involvement alongside CM Punk gives WWE something to really capitalize on for years to come.” Such strategic moves indicate WWE’s confidence in AJ Lee’s enduring popularity and wrestling ability despite her lengthy absence.

What Fans Can Expect Next

All signs point to AJ Lee’s presence or official announcement at this Friday’s SmackDown in Chicago, which will serve as a perfect hometown stage for her surprise return[1][2]. Fans can expect the WWE Universe to finally witness AJ Lee step back into the squared circle, potentially rekindling old rivalries and forming new alliances.

In addition to her Wrestlepalooza match, insiders hint that WWE may explore various creative directions involving AJ Lee, possibly integrating her into ongoing storylines that cross beyond just Punk’s narrative. While details remain under wraps, it is clear that WWE views AJ Lee’s return as more than a nostalgia act—it is an opportunity to enhance the women’s division with her unique personality and in-ring skillset.

Final Thoughts

The accidental leak from WWE Shop was just a small hint of what’s poised to become one of the biggest returns in wrestling history. After a decade away, AJ Lee’s re-entry into WWE marks an exciting new chapter, fueled by strong backstage support and a major storyline spotlight at Wrestlepalooza.

Wrestling fans around the world should prepare for a spectacular return when AJ Lee teams with CM Punk to face Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins. This match is already generating tremendous buzz and promises to be an unforgettable moment for WWE programming and pay-per-view history.

Sources: WWE.com, Wrestling Observer Live (Bryan Alvarez), Fightful Select, Wrestling News, Diva-Dirt, TJR Wrestling.