A Decade of Evolution
Comparing the landscape of professional wrestling in 2016 to 2026 feels like looking at two different worlds. For AJ Lee, a defining figure of the early 2010s, the transformation is particularly profound. Having stepped away from WWE in 2015 due to injuries and a desire to move on, Lee missed the front-row experience of the 'Women's Revolution' she helped ignite.
Before her departure, Lee was a pivotal voice for change, notably through her social media stance that birthed the #GiveDivasAChance movement. This initiative laid the groundwork for icons like Becky Lynch, Bayley, and Charlotte Flair. Reflecting on her return, Lee noted: «I think that has been the coolest way to enter the new generation, to have this gap, because I knew what it was during mine and now to see what the women are doing now, it was like ‘Woah, that is what evolution is all about.’ They have grown into my wildest dreams.»
The Unexpected Comeback
Lee’s return last September was highly anticipated, eventually weaving her into the high-profile rivalry between her husband, CM Punk, and Seth Rollins. Despite the intense nerves that accompany performing, she found comfort in the overwhelming support of the fans.
Since her comeback, the momentum has been relentless. From key victories at events like Wrestlepalooza and Survivor Series to capturing the Women’s Intercontinental Championship at Elimination Chamber, Lee has seamlessly integrated herself into the modern product. She views these achievements as «the sprinkles on top of the cupcake of my career,» emphasizing that she returned without specific expectations.
Fostering the Future
Beyond her in-ring performance, Lee is deeply appreciative of the current locker room culture. Drawing on her own experiences as a newcomer, where veterans like Beth Phoenix and Mickie James provided guidance, she is impressed by the leadership currently displayed by stars like Bayley.
«The wonderful thing about women wrestlers is that they don’t have ego in the way of not giving you your flowers,» Lee remarked. She highlighted that witnessing the current generation earn their opportunities and establish their own platforms has been an incredibly moving experience for her.
A WrestleMania Milestone
WrestleMania 42 represents a historic milestone for AJ Lee: her first-ever singles match at the event. Entering the stadium as the Women’s Intercontinental Champion, a title that didn't even exist during her previous tenure, serves as a testament to the growth of the industry.
Looking back at her path from a fan in the nosebleed seats at WrestleMania 20 to a champion today, Lee remains grounded. While she has competed at the ‘Showcase of the Immortals’ before, the sheer volume of women’s matches on the current card compared to the past highlights how far the division has come. For Lee, simply being back on the grandest stage is a victory in itself: «I am not going into this thinking that I need to feel happy or successful, so really just stepping out on the stage is going to feel like such a cool thing.»