The moment fans have been waiting for has arrived! AJ Lee has made her long-anticipated return to WWE, surprising everyone on the latest episode of SmackDown in Chicago. She stepped in to support her husband and the clues suggest she will join forces with CM Punk to take on Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch at Wrestlepalozaa, set for Saturday, September 20.
Event Context
The highlight of WWE SmackDown featured Seth Rollins introducing his wife, Becky Lynch, the Women’s Intercontinental Champion. As she entered the ring, the crowd erupted with loud boos, along with chants for AJ Lee, as fans eagerly anticipated her much-anticipated comeback.
Becky Lynch began taunting the audience in Chicago, even taking shots at local favorite CM Punk. While Lynch engaged with the crowd, Seth Rollins was present among the fans.
After several intense moments in the ring, AJ Lee made her dramatic entrance and launched an attack on Lynch, shocking both her and Rollins. This marked Lee’s return to a WWE ring after an absence of 3,800 days, having last appeared ten years ago. It’s safe to say that fans are thrilled to witness her return.
Earlier in the week, CM Punk announced his appearance on SmackDown, given that the event was taking place in his hometown of Chicago.
The night began with Sami Zayn issuing an open challenge for the US Open title, defending against John Cena. Their match showcased high-level wrestling talent but was abruptly interrupted by Brock Lesnar, who targeted both Cena and Zayn.
Team Analysis
As soon as CM Punk made his entrance, the audience erupted in excitement. The arena pulsated with the sounds of ‘Cult of Personality’ as fans stood in anticipation. Punk offered Becky Lynch an opportunity to exit, emphasizing that the focus wasn’t on her.
He then directed a jab at Seth Rollins, labeling him a coward while addressing Lynch. In response, Becky exchanged heated remarks and ultimately slapped CM Punk. This confrontation prompted Punk to step out of the ring, and shortly after, the familiar tune of ‘Light It Up’ played, heralding AJ Lee’s arrival to an enthusiastic welcome.
Match Outlook
Following the match, WWE announced that Brock Lesnar will face John Cena at Wrestlepalozaa. As Cena opened SmackDown, audiences erupted into chants for AJ Lee, with the former Universal Champion proclaiming, “It’s going to be an exciting night.”
AJ Lee’s anticipated comeback came on the heels of Becky Lynch’s interference, which led to CM Punk losing the World Heavyweight Title at WWE Clash in Paris 2025. Lynch also targeted Punk on RAW, which prompted Punk to hint that Lee would return during SmackDown.
