AJ Lee's WWE comeback is a big surprise for her fans. The diva retired in 2015, and since then, she has been away from the limelight. Lee is thankful that she returned to the wrestling scene but admits that it also feels "scary."

AJ Lee Embraces the Challenge of WWE Return After a Decade

AJ Lee Says WWE Comeback 'Feels Scary' AJ Lee Says WWE Comeback 'Feels Scary'
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10 years ago, Lee appeared in the WWE ring for one last time. It was on March 30, 2015, when she defeated the Bella Twins at WrestleMania 31 with the help of Paige. Her final match wasn't perfect. She had been dealing with neck issues.

"It's been 10 years. I try to stretch as much as I can, but don't you really know what's gonna happen when you get out there. But in the same way that does feel kind of scary, and as Becky said, a liability in one way, I think it's an asset," Lee told ESPN.

From Retirement to Reinvention

Whereas many wrestlers are desperate for one more moment in the spotlight, Lee was comfortable with retirement. After leaving WWE, she took on new projects, most significantly as executive producer of the revival of WOW, Women of Wrestling, CBS Sports reported.

Lee said that returning had to be meaningful. If she does something new, it needs to be a little intimidating and exciting. She added that the "brand new" feeling is what drew her back into the ring.

The Punk and Lee Connection

CM Punk's return to WWE in 2023 paved the way for Lee's return. The couple's collaboration in WWE Wrestlepalooza now comes full circle: from home life to the ring. This was such an emotional comeback for the Punk.

Punk, who was excited to have his wife share in this moment with him, complimented her toughness and hard work. In the "Pardon My Take" podcast, he praised Lee's mentality, as well, saying that she's inspirational. He called Lee's WWE return a "dream come true."