The wrestling world is full of surprises, but one shocking fact has recently surfaced—AJ Lee has been away from WWE longer than CM Punk. Yes, the same CM Punk who walked out of WWE in 2014, leaving a massive void in professional wrestling. While Punk’s WWE exit was one of the most talked-about moments in wrestling history, AJ Lee’s departure was quieter, yet just as impactful. Now, with Punk’s dramatic return to WWE, fans are realizing just how long AJ Lee has been absent from the squared circle. But why did she leave? And could she ever make a comeback? Let’s dive into the details of her incredible journey and why this revelation is sending shockwaves through the WWE Universe.
## AJ Lee’s Unforgettable WWE Career
AJ Lee, real name April Jeanette Mendez, made her WWE debut in 2010 and quickly became one of the most popular female wrestlers of her era. With her unique personality, exceptional in-ring skills, and ability to connect with fans, she broke barriers in the Divas division. Before the women’s revolution truly took off, AJ Lee was already redefining what it meant to be a female superstar in WWE.
She won the Divas Championship three times, holding the title for a then-record 295 days in one reign. Her feuds with Paige, The Bella Twins, and Kaitlyn were some of the most compelling storylines of the early 2010s. She wasn’t just a talented wrestler—she was a game-changer. Yet, despite her success, she decided to step away from wrestling in April 2015.
## The Shocking Fact: AJ Lee’s WWE Exit Lasted Longer Than CM Punk’s
CM Punk’s controversial exit from WWE in January 2014 is still discussed to this day. Punk had been one of WWE’s biggest stars, holding the WWE Championship for 434 days, the longest reign in modern history at the time. His sudden departure due to creative frustrations and medical concerns led to a bitter legal battle between him and WWE. For years, fans speculated whether he would ever return. Then, in a moment nobody saw coming, Punk made his triumphant return to WWE at Survivor Series 2023, after nearly ten years away.
This return sparked an eye-opening realization—AJ Lee, who left WWE in 2015, has now been gone longer than Punk was. Despite her undeniable legacy, AJ has stayed out of the wrestling spotlight, focusing on her personal life and other professional ventures.
## Why Did AJ Lee Leave WWE?
Many factors contributed to AJ Lee’s WWE departure, including:
1. **Injury Issues** – AJ Lee suffered from multiple injuries throughout her career, including a serious neck issue that limited her in-ring future.
2. **Creative Frustration** – While she achieved immense success, the women’s division in WWE at the time was still lacking the opportunities it has today. Many speculate she grew frustrated with the limited storylines available.
3. **CM Punk’s Fallout with WWE** – AJ’s husband, CM Punk, had a highly publicized legal battle with WWE, particularly with their medical staff. This undoubtedly put additional strain on AJ’s position within the company.
4. **New Career Path** – After leaving WWE, AJ transitioned into writing and activism, authoring a best-selling memoir and working on mental health awareness initiatives.
## Will AJ Lee Ever Return to WWE?
With CM Punk back in WWE, fans are now asking an even bigger question—could AJ Lee be next?
The landscape of WWE has changed dramatically since AJ last stepped foot in the ring. The women’s revolution, spearheaded by stars like Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, and Rhea Ripley, has turned the division into one of WWE’s strongest aspects. The possibility of AJ Lee returning for one last run has never seemed more exciting.
Several factors could influence a potential comeback:
– **A new generation of female superstars** – AJ Lee could face off against today’s top stars in dream matches fans never thought possible.
– **CM Punk’s presence in WWE** – With her husband now back in the company, AJ Lee’s return may seem more likely than ever.
– **The right storyline** – If WWE can craft a compelling return angle, AJ Lee stepping back into the ring could be a major moment in wrestling history.
## The Fans Are Ready
While nothing is confirmed, the WWE Universe is more than ready to see AJ Lee make a triumphant return. Her influence on the women’s division remains undeniable, and her absence only fuels the demand for her comeback. Whether it happens or not, one thing is for sure—AJ Lee’s impact on wrestling will never be forgotten.
As CM Punk continues his latest WWE run, the realization that AJ Lee has been gone even longer adds an unexpected twist to their shared wrestling legacy. Could 2024 be the year she steps back into the spotlight? Only time will tell, but wrestling fans worldwide will be watching closely.