WWE accidentally confirms AJ Lee's return ahead of this week's SmackDown

(Courtesy : WWE)
Rumors have been rife about her return since Monday!
Since CM Punk’s return in November 2023, fans have been eagerly calling for AJ Lee to return to WWE. Each hint or mention sparks more speculation across social media, and now, it seems these rumors might soon come to fruition as the promotion has accidentally confirmed Lee’s return.
The return rumors picked up steam during a segment between CM Punk and Becky Lynch, the latter humiliated and slapped Punk, who was looking to confront Seth Rollins for using his wife to win the World title match at Clash in Paris.
Lynch aiding Rollins already sparked rumors of Lee’s return and Punk saying, “You’re gonna regret putting your hands on me.” to Becky, and then announcing that he will appear on this week’s Friday Night SmackDown, which will emanate from his hometown, Chicago, where he himself made his return two years ago, made fans speculate about the former Divas Champions returning after ten years.
WWEShop.com has spoiled AJ Lee’s return
Amid rumors a recent reply to a fan query, WWEShop.com which is the official Twitter handle for WWE merch accidentally confirmed Lee’s return to the company.
A Twitter/X handle by the name of Wrestling Daze tagged them, inquiring about AJ Lee merchandise and sarcastically asking if they’re supposed to wear normal clothes while watching this week’s SmackDown, which is in Chicago where Lee is rumored to return.
Replying to the post, the official handle outright confirmed that they are looking to have some amazing gear in time for the upcoming Wrestleplaooza PLE.
“Hey there! Of course, we wouldn’t expect that. With AJ Lee’s return to the ring, we are looking to have some 🔥 gear hopefully in time for Wrestlepalooza. Be sure you’re signed up for emails and get the latest updates on new live inventory. Happy shopping!” The handle replied to the tweet.
The original tweet has been deleted since but the screengrab of the tweet has been doing round among fans on social media.
Reports point to Wrestlepalooza return
Multiple outlets are now suggesting that Lee will return as soon as this week. Fightful noted that WWE is hopeful her comeback won’t just be a one-off appearance, but even if it is, they would still consider it a major win.
Bryan Alvarez has gone further, saying flat-out that AJ Lee is returning and will wrestle alongside Punk against Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch at Wrestlepalooza on September 20.
CM Punk himself teased the idea on Raw when he promised he would appear on SmackDown in Chicago this Friday, September 5, in his hometown, and also where the two live. The timing couldn’t be more convenient for a surprise appearance.
Adding to the speculation, Punk posted an Instagram story with the caption: “okay… you asked for it.” Combined with chants for Lee during his heated segment with Becky Lynch on Raw, the anticipation is reaching a fever pitch.
Is AJ Lee returning to WWE?
As of now, WWE has teased but not confirmed her return, while multiple reports have stated that she will be returning to WWE and join CM Punk to battle Rollins and Lynch.
When was AJ Lee’s last match in WWE?
AJ Lee’s last in-ring match in WWE was a six-woman tag team match where she teamed up with Naomi and Paige (Saraya) to battle a team of Natalya, The Bella Twins (Brie Bella & Nikki Bella).
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Abhijit Singh is a budding sports journalist with over three years of experience in the field, and a photographer capturing stories through his lens since 2018. With a background in philosophy and political science, he brings a thoughtful, analytical edge to his reporting where every word is guided by curiosity and intent. Whether he's capturing the emotion of a moment or unpacking the deeper narratives within the game, Abhijit’s work is rooted in insight and passion. When he’s not covering sports, he’s often exploring new ideas through reading, traveling or just procrastinating.
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