AJ Lee Reveals Real Reason Behind Her WWE Return

AJ Lee is stepping back into singles competition for the first time in over a decade, and she made it clear exactly why she chose now — and why Becky Lynch was the deciding factor.

During an interview with Michael Cole that aired on the Elimination Chamber pre-show, Lee opened up about what ultimately convinced her to return to WWE and challenge Lynch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship. According to Lee, Lynch’s actions and status played a major role in bringing her out of retirement. She explained that Lynch didn’t just issue a challenge — she made it personal.

“I feel like Becky chose me. She went after my husband and I think there was a chance she knew that would maybe get me out of retirement.”

Lee made it clear that this wasn’t just another comeback opportunity. Facing Lynch represented something much bigger, especially given Lynch’s position in the current era.

“But I’ve got to say, if it had been almost anyone else, I don’t know if I would have taken that challenge. It’s the fact that Becky is this Mount Everest to me.”

She also acknowledged Lynch’s place at the top of the industry and explained her motivation to prove she still belongs at that level.

“She’ll say it too, she’s one of the best there is right now, and I want to prove I can exist and dominate in two generations.”

Lee also revealed that returning wasn’t an immediate decision. For years, the answer had been firmly no whenever WWE reached out. But that eventually changed.

“The option kept coming up and the question was if this would be something I would be interested in, and the answer was always ‘no, she’s done’.”

That mindset didn’t last forever, though. Lee described a turning point that made her reconsider everything.

“There was a day where I woke up and the answer was maybe, and once it was a maybe, I knew it was a yes.”

Lee’s return has already reshaped WWE’s women’s division, and now she has the chance to capture championship gold against one of the defining stars of this generation. With their rivalry already fueled by personal stakes and generational pride, tonight’s match could mark one of the most significant moments of her comeback.

Do you think AJ Lee will defeat Becky Lynch tonight and prove she can dominate a new generation, or will Lynch cement her legacy by shutting down one of WWE’s most iconic returns?