Speculation has been swirling around the possible return of AJ Lee to WWE, especially as the Royal Rumble 2025 looms large on February 1st at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. With her husband, CM Punk, back in the WWE fold, many fans were hoping to see the former Divas Champion grace the ring once more.
AJ Lee, who has not competed since her retirement from professional wrestling in 2015, remains a beloved figure among wrestling fans. Her unexpected departure came shortly after she and Paige defeated The Bella Twins at WrestleMania 31. Although Lee cited back problems and concerns related to her husband’s contentious relationship with WWE, her absence has kept fans yearning for her return over the years.
With CM Punk making his comeback at Survivor Series 2023, the anticipation for AJ Lee's resurgence intensified. Fans have speculated about her status and whether she would reunite with Punk at the Royal Rumble. CM Punk, during his recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, stated, “There are no clues. There are no clues. She’s at home watching Larry,” referring to their dog, which deflated some hopes.
Despite the disappointment expressed by fans for AJ Lee not participating, she remains entrenched in wrestling history. Even now, the energy of the WWE audience is palpable, always keeping the chatter alive around wrestling icons. Interestingly, not only were there fan comments exclaiming, "Where is my AJ?" and "We want AJ Lee!" but also whispers from wrestling insiders have speculated on the future of WWE, highlighting AJ Lee’s impact during her time.
Jacob Fatu, another wrestler, recently stirred the pot by proclaiming, “If she doesn’t come back now it’s over we will prolly never see her in ring again.” His comments reflect the urgency felt within parts of the wrestling community since her leave from the ring has now extended for nearly ten years. Many see the Royal Rumble as the last chance for any surprises, especially considering the event's history of unexpected appearances and returns.
The Royal Rumble is typically packed with surprises, and yet, AJ Lee didn’t make the cut this time. Although there were murmurs of her presence, reports indicate she was not expected to appear. WWE executives have made it known, though, if Lee ever decides to return, they are open to making it happen. This assurance keeps the door to speculation ajar.
Notably, AJ Lee's legacy is still very much alive. A three-time Divas Champion, her influence changed the way female wrestlers are viewed in the industry. Her record-breaking 295-day title reign remains one of the longest Divas Title runs to date. Many fans and fellow wrestlers cite her as revolutionary for women’s wrestling, helping usher the division toward what many now describe as the golden era.
With Punk partaking again at the Royal Rumble, many believed his teasing could lead to AJ's appearance as well. The absence of AJ from the ring during the events has seen fans voicing their discontent on social media, asserting, “I think it’s kinda safe to say AJ Lee really doesn't wanna come back guys lol.” Clearly, her absence is still deeply felt.
Despite Punk's playful hints, Lee's current focus appears to remain outside the wrestling ring. She has immersed herself since retirement, working with WOW – Women of Wrestling and making appearances on shows like STARZ’s Heels. Yet, this continued visibility cannot obscure the void left for her fanbase.
During the Royal Rumble, fan chants calling for AJ were also noteworthy. Punk, recognizing this enthusiasm, humorously attempted to shift the crowd's focus to their dog Larry, engaging the audience yet not confirming any speculation about AJ participating. The interaction highlighted not only the continued fandom surrounding AJ Lee but also how her fame lingers even after such time.
Unfortunately for fans truly hoping for AJ Lee’s return, the post-Rumble analysis showed no signs of her comeback. The Royal Rumble this year was dominated by Charlotte Flair’s swift moves, as she punched her ticket to WrestleMania by eliminating several opponents with ease, taking away from the anticipation surrounding AJ.
While AJ Lee’s physical presence may not be in the ring today, her impact and the yearning for her return remain clear as ever. Wrestling fans will continue to hold their breath, hoping for any signs of her return, especially as WWE navigates its next chapters. The future is uncertain, but the desire for AJ Lee to come home to WWE is one sentiment likely to echo through the arenas for years to come.