CM Punk’s reaction sparks AJ Lee WWE return speculation

CM Punk’s reaction at Clash in Paris reignites WWE fans’ hopes for AJ Lee’s return.

Tensions erupted at WWE's Clash in Paris event on August 31 when CM Punk nearly clinched the World Heavyweight Championship, only to have his victory thwarted by a dramatic interference from Becky Lynch.

After the match, Punk paused mid-slapline to eye a fan’s sign reading “Punk, bring back AJ Lee,” and then took it, clearly contemplating the message.

CM Punk holding a "Bring back AJ Lee" sign during the #WWEClash post show 👀 pic.twitter.com/5UlwDTp5KJ

— Teffo (@Teffo_01) August 31, 2025

In the post-show commentary, Big E jokingly suggested that Punk should team up with his wife: “He’s got a wife, too... I’m just saying.” Jackie Redmond picked up on the tease, stirring even louder speculation about AJ Lee’s comeback.

Behind the scenes, insiders report that WWE has recently revisited pitches for AJ Lee’s return, more seriously this time than in years past.

The possibility is building considerable momentum ahead of Wrestlepalooza, WWE’s first major event under its new ESPN streaming partnership.

While nothing has been confirmed, CM Punk’s deliberate reaction, the crowd’s sign, and the backstage chatter combine to make this the hottest AJ Lee rumor movement in years.