WWE Hall of Famer Questions If AJ Lee Can Get It Done in the Ring
AJ Lee’s WWE return on SmackDown sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. A decade removed from her last WWE match, the former Divas Champion is already at the center of speculation, with fans buzzing about her teaming up with her husband CM Punk to battle Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch at Wrestlepalooza.
But not everyone is convinced the return will go as smoothly as fans are hoping.
Bully Ray Weighs In
On a recent episode of Busted Open Podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray (aka Bubba Ray Dudley) delivered a reality check when it comes to AJ’s comeback. While praising her physical appearance, he drew a sharp distinction:
“In-shape doesn’t mean in-ring shape,” Bully said. “Seth, Punk, and Becky will have to go out of their way to put that first match together in a way that features AJ’s strengths and makes sure she doesn’t expose herself from the 10 years that she’s been away.”
Bully noted he hasn’t heard any reports of AJ training regularly at the WWE Performance Center, adding:
“Let’s hope she can get it done in the ring.”
While Bully raised concerns, he did mention that Natalya Neidhart, who has been in touch with AJ, believes she’ll be “absolutely ready to go.”
The Stage Is Set
If the mixed tag team match does take place at Wrestlepalooza, AJ will have only a short runway to prepare. That’s a tall task for anyone after such a long absence. Fortunately, as Dave LaGreca reminded listeners, AJ will be surrounded by three of WWE’s best in-ring performers in Punk, Rollins, and Lynch—partners and opponents who can help elevate her return.
Beyond Wrestlepalooza, AJ’s multiyear contract with WWE means this comeback isn’t just a one-off. The question remains: will the “Black Widow” adapt quickly enough to thrive in today’s WWE?
🎙️ Wrestling.news | Backstage Take
AJ Lee’s return is one of the most exciting storylines in years, but Bully Ray isn’t wrong—10 years away is a massive hurdle. Still, AJ has built her career proving doubters wrong, and this time she has Punk, Rollins, and Lynch to help set the table. If WWE can protect her weaknesses and spotlight her storytelling ability, this could be one of the most emotional returns in modern wrestling history. But make no mistake: the pressure is on.
