The Unseen Story: 7 Shocking Details Behind AJ Lee's Monumental WWE Return In 2025

The wrestling world was set on fire in late 2025 with the shocking, decade-in-the-making return of AJ Lee to WWE. After retiring in 2015 and focusing on her career as an author and executive producer, the former Divas Champion's comeback was an emotional, once-in-a-generation moment that instantly shifted the landscape of the women's division. This article, updated on December 10, 2025, dives deep into the monumental events surrounding her return, the contract details, and the legacy she is set to cement. The buzz began with cryptic social media posts, but the speculation became a reality on the September 5, 2025, edition of *WWE SmackDown*, where AJ Lee made her explosive return, marking the end of a ten-year absence from the ring. This comeback isn't just a nostalgic one-off; it's a new chapter for one of the most influential female performers of her era, who is now reportedly set to compete at the highly anticipated Wrestlepalooza event.

AJ Lee: The Complete Biography and Profile

April Jeanette Mendez, known worldwide by her ring name AJ Lee, is an American author and professional wrestler whose "Geek Goddess" persona resonated with millions of fans, breaking the mold for what a female superstar could be in WWE. Born in New Jersey, her journey from a lifelong wrestling fan to a trailblazing champion is one of the most inspiring in the industry.

• Full Name: April Jeanette Mendez (née Haffey)
• Ring Name: AJ Lee
• Born: March 19, 1987 (Age 38 as of late 2025)
• Billed From: Union City, New Jersey
• Spouse: Phil Brooks (CM Punk) (m. 2014)
• Debut: 2007 (Independent Circuit)
• WWE Debut: 2009 (Florida Championship Wrestling)
• WWE Retirement: April 3, 2015
• WWE Return: September 5, 2025 (on *SmackDown*)
• Signature Moves: Black Widow (Octopus Stretch), Shining Wizard
• Career Accomplishments: 3-time WWE Divas Champion, Longest-reigning Divas Champion (at the time of her first retirement), PWI Woman of the Year (2012, 2013, 2014), *Raw* General Manager.

The Decade-Long Road Back: From Retirement to the 2025 Comeback

AJ Lee's initial retirement in 2015 was a shock to the wrestling community. Following her final match on *Raw*, she quietly departed the company, largely due to health reasons, including a spinal injury, and the desire to pursue other creative endeavors. Her post-WWE career saw her flourish as an author, releasing the critically acclaimed memoir *Crazy Is My Superpower: How I Triumphed by Breaking Bones, Breaking Hearts, and Breaking the Rules*. She also took on a significant executive role in the wrestling world as an Executive Producer for Women of Wrestling (WOW), demonstrating her continued passion for the industry and for elevating female talent. The rumors of her return to in-ring action intensified after she concluded her contract with WOW in late 2023. The speculation reached a fever pitch throughout 2024 and 2025, with fans constantly debating if she would ever step back into a WWE ring. The confirmation of her return was met with an explosion of fan excitement, with many believing her comeback is crucial for the current women's division.

Inside the Shocking Contract: Full-Time or Special Attraction?

One of the most pressing questions following AJ Lee's return was regarding her contract status. Fans immediately hoped for a full-time run, but the details suggest a more curated and strategic approach to her comeback. The current reports indicate that AJ Lee is not signed to a full-time, rigorous WWE contract. Instead, her deal is structured to allow her to make special appearances, focusing on high-profile matches and significant storylines. This approach is likely a careful consideration of her past injuries and her continued commitments outside of the wrestling ring, including her writing and production work. This "special attraction" status immediately elevates her presence, making every appearance a must-see event. Her first confirmed in-ring action following her return is slated for "Wrestlepalooza 2025," where she is expected to participate in a tag team match.

The Significance of the Wrestlepalooza Match

The choice of a tag team match for her first major bout back is telling. It allows her to ease back into the ring rhythm while being protected by a partner, minimizing the physical toll. Furthermore, the opponent selection and the storyline leading up to the event are expected to be highly impactful, positioning her as a top-tier threat immediately upon her return. This match is billed as a once-in-a-generation comeback, highlighting how much her presence was missed during the "Divas era" transition.

AJ Lee's Lasting Legacy and Impact on the Women's Division

AJ Lee's original run in WWE from 2009 to 2015 left an indelible mark on the industry. She was a pivotal figure who bridged the gap between the "Divas era" and the "Women's Revolution." Her success was not built on a model-like appearance, but on her in-ring skills, character work, and genuine passion for professional wrestling. She was arguably the first woman in that era to consistently receive major storyline focus, often involved in main-event segments with male Superstars before the Women's Revolution began. Her work paved the way for the current generation of female wrestlers who are now headlining shows and competing in main events. Her return in 2025 provides a unique opportunity for dream matches against the current roster's elite, including champions who grew up watching her. The potential matchups with stars like Rhea Ripley, Iyo Sky, or even a long-awaited confrontation with a returning figure from her past are already fueling fan speculation and excitement across social media platforms. The "Geek Goddess" is back, and the wrestling world is ready to light it up.