AJ Lee Returns On SmackDown - Signs New WWE Contract (WWE News)
WWE returnee AJ Lee is expected to stick around rather than working one match.
AJ Lee returned to WWE screens for the first time in 10 years during last night's episode of SmackDown. What's more, the popular female star has put pen to paper on a brand spanking new company contract that should see her stick around for a while to come. It doesn't look like AJ will be 'one and done' after teaming with hubby CM Punk vs. Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins, put it that way.
An expectant crowd in Chicago roared with approval as Punk introduced Lee. Then, AJ skipped to the ring and went right after Lynch. For her part, 'The Man' acted terrified of Lee. That sold the moment well, and it's heartening that everyone's willing to do business heading into Wrestlepalooza.
It's important to note that WWE hasn't confirmed the bumper mixed tag-team match for that 20 September PLE, but they're expected to soon. The promotion has been front-loading Wrestlepalooza with some major bouts/rumoured bouts, so this AJ and Punk vs. Becky and Seth clash will presumably be the next to be announced.
Via his X account, WWE boss Triple H posted footage of Lee inking her new contract. She said she was excited to get started again, and Hunter definitely seemed thrilled to have AJ back on board. Her next match will be Lee's first for the company since teaming with Naomi and Paige vs. The Bella Twins and Natalya on the 30 March 2015 episode of Raw.
Rather incredibly, Naomi, Nattie and Nikki Bella have all been on TV in 2025 themselves. The more things change, the more they stay the same sometimes.
Opinion: Anyone Other Than AJ Would've Been A HUGE Disappointment
There had been fears going into SmackDown that WWE would pivot and use AJ's comeback as a swerve moment for Wrestlepalooza. A wide variety of names were rumoured, but Rhea Ripley seemed to be the strongest candidate to team with Punk vs. Becky and Seth.
That would've been a massive letdown for everyone in attendance for SmackDown in Chicago, and for those watching from home around the world. Ripley is clearly a huge star in her own right, but no - this had to be Lee. Nobody else would've made a lick of sense, and the symmetry of warring husband/wife combinations is more appealing from a marketing/build point of view than involving 'Mami' would've been.
In fact, Rhea coming out on Friday could've played before significant fan backlash. It might've turned Ripley heel for the evening due to scathing boos and surefire, "WE WANT AJ! WE WANT AJ! WE WANT AJ!" chants.