John Cena might have unintentionally confirmed AJ Lee’s return on this week’s Friday Night SmackDown.
The September 5 episode of WWE SmackDown kicked off live from Allstate Arena in Chicago, with over 16,678 fans in attendance. The Greatest of all Time, John Cena, opened the show and expressed happiness over the massive reaction.
He talked about running down the stage 23 years ago, and his debut against Kurt Angle in the same city, and how things have changed since then. He addressed the debate regarding the best crowd in WWE history, claiming he has always been clear about it.
Cena appreciated the crowd for cheering the people they love, even if they are not in the company. Before he could speak, the clever crowd connected the dots and started chanting ‘AJ Lee,’ to which Cena replied,
You’re not afraid to cheer for the ones you love, even if they are not here, hell, you bring people back to the WWE. And you know what I’m talking about… Boy are we in for one exciting night tonight.” (0:00 – 0:31)
LOUD AJ LEE CHANTS BREAK OUT DURING JOHN CENA PROMO
“You bring back people to the WWE” #Smackdown
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) September 6, 2025
The crowd reaction following these words from Cena makes it clear that the WWE audience knows what’s coming later in the show and what the company has planned for them.
The Generational WWE SmackDown From Chicago
This marks the last time John Cena will ever appear on SmackDown in his wrestling career. This date marks a full-circle moment, given that Cena debuted on the blue brand in the same city. The show is expected to feature Brock Lesnar confronting Cena ahead of the upcoming ESPN PLE, WrestlePalooza, on September 20.
Last week on Monday Night RAW, CM Punk announced his presence on the blue brand, given that it takes place in his hometown. He said he had ‘tremendous’ plans for the night and wanted to teach Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins a lesson after their recent actions.