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Excitement is brewing among WWE fans as rumors of AJ Lee’s potential return to the ring surface, over a decade after her retirement. Known for her charisma, in-ring prowess, and groundbreaking storylines, AJ Lee has left an indelible mark on WWE. Here’s a look back at her remarkable career and why fans are eager to see her return.
Early career and WWE debut
AJ Lee, active in WWE from 2010 to 2015, initially honed her skills in FCW and gained prominence during the all-female season of the original WWE NXT. Despite not winning the competition, AJ made her SmackDown debut on May 27, 2011, and quickly established herself as a standout performer.
Her career officially concluded in April 2015, following WrestleMania 31, when she announced her retirement. During her five-year tenure, AJ Leebecame a three-time Divas Champion, tying the record at the time. Her 295-day reign with the title was the longest in WWE history before being surpassed by Nikki Bella.
Defining moments in the ring
The Kaitlyn rivalry
One of AJ’s most compelling storylines was her feud with Kaitlyn, sparked by her “secret admirer” role. This angle culminated in a Divas Championship match at Payback 2013, where AJ captured the gold, marking a career-defining moment.
WrestleMania 28 shock
AJ was part of one of the most talked-about moments in WrestleMania history. Her on-screen kiss with Daniel Bryan distracted him during his World Heavyweight Championship match against Sheamus, leading to Bryan’s infamous 18-second loss. This segment became iconic, showcasing AJ Lee’s ability to influence main-event storylines.
Main event presence
From 2012 to 2013, AJ was featured in top-tier storylines, working with stars like Daniel Bryan, CM Punk, Kane, Dolph Ziggler, and John Cena. Her presence during this era broke barriers for women in main-event roles, setting a precedent for future generations.
Authority and power
In 2012, AJ became Raw’s youngest General Manager, redefining her role in WWE beyond wrestling. Her tenure combined authority with unpredictability, enhancing storylines and bringing a fresh dynamic to Monday nights.
The Paige feud and women’s revolution
AJ Lee’s 2014 rivalry with Paige highlighted WWE’s “anti-Diva” era. Their feud emphasized athleticism and storytelling over titillation, paving the way for the Women’s Revolution in WWE.
Final WWE triumph
AJ’s last major victory came at WrestleMania 31, teaming with Paige to defeat the Bella Twins, ending her WWE career on a high note.
AJ influence is still felt in WWE, and her rumored return has fans buzzing. From her record-breaking title reigns to groundbreaking storylines, AJ remains a pivotal figure in the evolution of women’s wrestling.
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