AJ Lee made her intentions clear on the latest episode of SmackDown, attacking Becky Lynch and leaving the arena with the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship. The confrontation occurred in Chicago after Lynch slapped Lee’s husband, CM Punk. By raising the title belt in the center of the ring, Lee has seemingly inserted herself directly into the championship picture.
The segment escalated when Seth Rollins, who had earlier promised CM Punk would “die in his hometown,” brought out his wife, Becky Lynch. After Lynch repeatedly slapped Punk, he stated he wouldn’t retaliate against a woman but knew someone who would. This prompted AJ Lee’s music to hit, leading to her first physical involvement in a WWE ring in over a decade. She attacked Lynch, knocking her out of the ring before absconding with the championship belt.
This attack adds a significant layer to the upcoming mixed tag team match at Wrestlepalooza, where Lee and Punk are scheduled to face Lynch and Rollins.
The confrontation is the latest chapter in a deeply personal feud. The rivalry intensified at the Clash in Paris premium live event, where Lynch interfered with a low blow on Punk, helping Rollins retain the World Heavyweight Championship. Lynch continued her antagonism on the September 1st episode of Raw, slapping Punk and setting the stage for the events on SmackDown.
Confirmation of Lee’s long-term plans came shortly after her appearance. WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque posted a video to X showing Lee officially signing a new contract.
According to a report from Bodyslam, via Sports Illustrated, this is a significant commitment. The report states, “AJ Lee has signed a multi-year, full-time contract with WWE. This isn’t a one-off cameo or a nostalgia pop. AJ is back for real, and she’s ready to shake up the women’s division all over again.”
This return marks Lee’s first time competing in WWE since March 2015, the night after WrestleMania 31. She had previously retired from in-ring action citing permanent damage to her cervical spine.