With speculation surrounding a potential in-ring return for AJ Lee reaching a fever pitch, it appears her comeback could be part of a much larger strategy for WWE. The company is reportedly planning to load its upcoming Wrestlepalooza Premium Live Event on September 20 with major attractions, as it will mark WWE’s first-ever PLE to air live on ESPN.
On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer explained WWE’s tendency to treat debuts on new platforms as major showcases, comparing the upcoming ESPN event to past launches like SmackDown on FOX.
They’re definitely gonna peak. This is not your normal monthly pay-per-view at all that they’re running on that show. They always pull stuff out. And you know, this’ll be — this I’m sure will be no different.
The possibility of Lee’s return is a central piece of these plans. The discussion gained significant traction following a confrontation on the September 1st episode of RAW between her husband, CM Punk, and Becky Lynch. After Lynch slapped Punk, the crowd chanted for Lee, prompting Lynch to retort, “she doesn’t work here anymore.” Punk later hinted at a plan for this week’s SmackDown in his hometown of Chicago, leading many to believe Lee will be involved. Meltzer noted the high-level discussions, stating, “I gotta think that they’re not going this far without the [AJ Lee] deal already made.”
Lee’s potential involvement isn’t the only major development planned for the show. Brock Lesnar is already locked in for an appearance, adding significant star power to the Indianapolis event. Furthermore, WWE is teasing a reunion of The Usos after Jimmy Uso saved his brother Jey from an attack by Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed on RAW, potentially setting up a high-profile tag team match.
While some key matches are still taking shape, one championship bout has already been made official. Following Naomi’s decision to vacate the Women’s World Title, WWE announced that IYO SKY and Stephanie Vaquer will compete at WrestlePalooza to crown a new champion. These plans collectively signal WWE’s intent to make its ESPN premiere a memorable event.