1. Introduction
AJ Lee (April Jeanette Mendez), a three-time Divas Champion and pivotal figure in WWE’s Women’s Revolution, left a lasting legacy when she walked away from in-ring action in 2015. Nearly a decade later, fans are buzzing with excitement over whether the “Crazy Chick” might return to WWE. From Instagram hints to evolving storylines, here’s every angle on her potential comeback.
2. AJ Lee’s Injury That Led to Retirement
AJ Lee retired from wrestling in April 2015 due to a serious neck/cervical spine injury, which involved significant disc compression and nerve issues causing numbness in her limbs. She chose rehab over surgery and stepped away from WWE’s in-ring scene.
She’s since found success as an author, screenwriter, and producer, notably writing the bestselling memoir Crazy Is My Superpower and working in media.
3. Social Media & Instagram: Hints and Speculation
AJ Lee has subtly fueled comeback rumors through her Instagram activity:
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She shared a photo of her old wrestling boots captioned “Hello darkness, my old friend,” and a video of training with CM Punk—igniting speculation about her readiness to return.
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Her physique also drew attention, with fans noting how “jacked” she looked—prompting buzz about a potential return.
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Her ongoing engagement with WWE and other wrestling figures on Instagram indicates continued, albeit indirect, ties to the industry.
4. Public Statements & Official Updates
AJ Lee’s Perspective
While AJ has acknowledged receiving offers, she’s repeatedly indicated uncertainty about returning—mentioning doubts about whether “that fire is there” or if she’s physically ready.
CM Punk’s Comments
CM Punk—the “Best in the World” and AJ’s husband—has discussed her potential return publicly. He’s expressed that her return would be “bigger than mine,” but also cautioned that it ultimately depends on her readiness.
More recently, he explicitly ruled out a joint return with her, stating that their relationship dynamics and principles don’t align with appearing together in WWE.
5. Storyline Teases & WWE’s Strategic Hints
At Clash in Paris (August 31, 2025)
During the dramatic main event, Becky Lynch’s interference in Seth Rollins vs. CM Punk sparked renewed speculation of AJ Lee’s return to even the odds. Reports mention that pitches involving AJ are now receiving more traction—unlike in years past, when they were swiftly dismissed.
Evolution II & Fan-Fueled Storylines
Ahead of the all-women’s Evolution 2 event, WWE has posted highlight videos of AJ Lee and teased her legacy—suggesting her potential return would make a powerful statement.
Additionally, Roxanne Perez, the current Women’s Tag Team Champion, publicly declared her dream to face AJ Lee—further fueling hope for her return.
6. Fan & Wrestler Aspirations
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Roxanne Perez said she couldn’t retire without a match against AJ Lee—a testament to AJ’s enduring influence.
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WWE’s social media and segments continue to remind fans of what AJ brought to the division—her charisma, unpredictability, and in-ring storytelling set her apart.
7. Summary: Where Things Stand Now
| Topic | Status / Insight |
|---|---|
| Injury | Neck injury ended career; she rehabs rather than surgery |
| Personal Readiness | Unsure if she still has the spark; has declined past overtures |
| Social Media | Subtle teases via boots photo, training footage, physique updates |
| Punk’s View | Supportive but ruled out a joint return |
| WWE’s Approach | Teasing her as a legacy figure; pitches being received more openly |
| Fan Interest | High—especially among current talents like Roxanne Perez |
8. FAQs
Q1: Has AJ Lee officially returned to WWE as of now?
A: No—there’s been no confirmed in-ring return by AJ Lee as of September 1, 2025.
Q2: Is AJ Lee injured?
A: She retired due to a serious neck (cervical spine) injury, which led her to choose rehabilitation over surgery.
Q3: What has she said about returning?
A: AJ has stated she’s received offers but remains uncertain, saying she’s not sure if she still has the desire or physical readiness.
Q4: What’s CM Punk’s stance on this?
A: CM Punk has been supportive, suggesting AJ’s return would be monumental, but he has reaffirmed that a joint return is off the table due to their personal principles.
Q5: Has WWE hinted at her being part of upcoming events?
A: Yes—WWE is dropping nostalgic content ahead of Evolution 2 and hasn’t closed the door on pitches about her return, especially post–Clash in Paris. AJ Lee WWE return.
9. Conclusion: The Road Ahead
AJ Lee’s possible return to WWE remains one of the most captivating “what-if” storylines in modern wrestling. Her iconic status, combined with the evolution of the women’s division, creates compelling potential. However, her return hinges on her personal readiness and physical condition—not just WWE storytelling. Fans should stay tuned: with Evolution 2 and Wrestlepalooza on the horizon, the right moment for a comeback might still lie ahead.
