AJ Lee shocked the wrestling world when she returned to WWE on September 5, 2025, after more than 10 years away from the company. Her comeback on SmackDown wasn’t just about nostalgia. It set up a chain of events that could change CM Punk’s championship path forever.
Punk has had a rough 2025 so far. He won the World Heavyweight Championship from Gunther at SummerSlam, but Seth Rollins cashed in his Money in the Bank contract immediately after. Rollins pulled what many called “The Ruse of the Century” by pretending to be injured, then attacking Punk when he was exhausted. At Clash in Paris, Becky Lynch helped her husband Rollins retain the title by hitting Punk with a low blow during their Fatal 4-Way match.
The turning point came when Lynch confronted Punk on RAW and SmackDown and slapped him multiple times. Lynch knew he wouldn’t hit a woman, so she took advantage of this. That’s when Lee made her surprise return, attacking Lynch and stealing her Women’s Intercontinental Championship. This move gave Punk the equalizer he needed against the power couple.
Lee signed a multi-year contract with WWE, confirming this isn’t just a one-time appearance. Triple H even shared a video of Lee signing her new deal. She will team with Punk against Rollins and Lynch in a Mixed Tag Team Match at Wrestlepalooza on September 20.
AJ Lee’s Alliance Could Fulfill CM Punk’s Championship Dreams
Lee’s return creates new possibilities for Punk to become World Champion again. The former three-time Divas Champion offers something Punk didn’t have before – a way to handle the Lynch problem. With Lee back, Lynch has a block in her path and does not do as she pleases to assist her husband, Seth Rollins.
The Vision faction also includes Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed, known as ‘The Brons.’ These two have been causing problems for many wrestlers, including putting Roman Reigns out of action at Clash in Paris. But Lee’s return could help Punk build his own alliance to counter this threat.
The Usos are set to face The Brons at Wrestlepalooza, following their recent reunion. If Lee and Punk can work out a deal with The Usos, they would finally equalize The Vision. This alliance could be the key to taking down Rollins and his group.