10 Hottest AJ Lee Photos & The Shocking Reason She's Back In WWE In 2025

AJ Lee remains one of the most searched-for figures in professional wrestling, with fan interest in her stunning looks and fiery personality only growing since her retirement, a phenomenon proven by the consistent search volume for "AJ Lee hot photos." Yet, as of the current date, December 17, 2025, the conversation has dramatically shifted from throwback photos to a massive, confirmed career update: the former three-time Divas Champion is officially slated for a sensational return to WWE after a decade-long absence, making her a top entity in both the wrestling and entertainment worlds once again.

The anticipation for her in-ring comeback—reportedly set for the September 2025 edition of SmackDown leading into a major event like Wrestlepalooza—has reignited the fanbase. Her unique blend of gothic-chic style, in-ring athleticism, and captivating charisma has ensured her enduring legacy, but her recent success as a New York Times best-selling author and screenwriter has solidified her status as a true multi-hyphenate talent, adding layers to the fascination surrounding her public image and any new photos.

April Jeanette Mendez (AJ Lee) Full Biography & Profile

April Jeanette Mendez, known professionally as AJ Lee, has had a career marked by both incredible highs in the wrestling world and significant accomplishments in the literary and screenwriting fields. Her journey from a humble background in New Jersey to a WWE main event-level star and respected author is a testament to her tenacity and talent.

• The Facts Of Life Cast Where Are Eastlands Girls Now 2024 Updates 2tx8p

• Ring Name: AJ Lee
• Real Name: April Jeanette Mendez (now Brooks, after marriage)
• Born: March 19, 1987
• Hometown: Union City, New Jersey, U.S.
• Height: 5 ft 2 in (157 cm)
• Spouse: CM Punk (Phil Brooks) (m. 2014)
• WWE Debut: 2009 (in FCW)
• WWE Retirement: April 3, 2015
• Reported WWE Return: September 2025
• Major Accomplishments: Three-time WWE Divas Champion, longest-reigning Divas Champion (at the time) at 295 days, Slammy Award winner (Diva of the Year 2012 & 2014).
• Other Careers: New York Times Best-Selling Author, Screenwriter, Producer, Mental Health Advocate, Animal Rescue Ambassador.
• Notable Works: Memoir Crazy Is My Superpower: How I Triumphed by Breaking Bones, Breaking Hearts, and Breaking the Rules (2017), Co-writer for DC Comics (*Wonder Woman*) and the comic book series GLOW vs. The Babyface.

The Enduring Appeal of AJ Lee's Iconic Look and Photos

The continuous search for "AJ Lee hot photos" stems from her unique and authentic persona that stood out during her initial run in WWE. Unlike the traditional model-centric Divas era, AJ Lee embraced a "Geek Goddess" aesthetic, often wearing Chuck Taylors, video game-themed t-shirts, and knee-high socks, which resonated deeply with a massive, underserved segment of the audience.

Her appeal wasn't just physical; it was tied to her character's intensity, her memorable storylines with top entities like Daniel Bryan, Kane, and her husband CM Punk, and her ability to deliver high-quality promos. The photos that often trend are not typically professional shoots, but rather candid, in-ring shots that capture her dynamic energy and the raw emotion she brought to every match and segment.

This authentic look is what has kept her image fresh and relevant, long after her initial departure. Fans appreciate that her image was a reflection of her identity—a self-proclaimed misfit who broke the mold and became the face of the Divas Division.

• The Surprise Vegas Wedding And Shared Grief 5 Shocking Details Of John Schneider And Dee Dee Sorvinos Whirlwind Romance Ohirf

The most sought-after images often highlight key moments in her career:

• Her signature black and white ring gear.
• Photos of her performing her finisher, the "Black Widow" submission.
• Candid shots from her time as the General Manager of Raw.
• Pictures with her former stable, The Shield (Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, Dean Ambrose).

From Bestseller to Backstage: AJ Lee's 2025 WWE Return

The biggest news in the wrestling world for the latter half of 2025 is the highly anticipated return of April Mendez to WWE. After her retirement in 2015, which was largely due to injuries and a desire to focus on her mental health advocacy and writing career, a comeback seemed unlikely for many years.

However, reports confirm that AJ Lee is slated to return to the company, potentially making her first appearance on SmackDown in September 2025. This return is a massive boost for the women’s division, which has significantly evolved since her initial run, moving from the Divas Championship to the Women’s World Championship era.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

AJ Mendez's Life Beyond the Ring: Writing and Advocacy

While fans have been clamoring for her return to the squared circle, April Mendez has built an incredibly successful career outside of professional wrestling, leveraging her intellectual prowess and unique life experience. This non-wrestling success is a key part of her topical authority and enduring appeal:

1. New York Times Best-Selling Author: Her 2017 memoir, Crazy Is My Superpower, was a critical and commercial success. The book candidly discusses her lifelong struggle with bipolar disorder, her childhood poverty, and how she used those challenges as motivation. This work positioned her as a major voice in mental health advocacy.

2. Screenwriting and Comics: Mendez formed a successful writing partnership with actress Aimee Garcia. Together, they have worked on high-profile projects, including co-writing for DC Comics' Wonder Woman and creating the comic book series Dungeons & Dragons: At the Spine of the World and Glow vs. The Babyface, based on the Netflix series GLOW. Her transition to a professional screenwriter demonstrates her commitment to storytelling and creative arts.

3. Women of Wrestling (WOW): Prior to the 2025 WWE rumors, Mendez served as an Executive Producer and color commentator for the relaunched Women of Wrestling (WOW) promotion, which gave her valuable experience in a backstage and on-air non-wrestling role.

Her return to WWE in 2025 is not just a nostalgic moment; it is the convergence of a beloved wrestling figure, a New York Times best-selling author, and a mental health advocate. The photos that trend today are a reminder of her past dominance, but her current role will undoubtedly cement her legacy as one of the most influential women in the history of the business, a true "Superstar" in every sense of the word.