Who Should the Three-Time Divas Champion Face in Her Second Run in the WWE?
After stepping away from the world of professional wrestling ten years ago, A.J. Lee made her triumphant return to WWE on the September 5th episode of SmackDown in Chicago, Illinois. This was a pleasant surprise not only to the Chicago natives but to the WWE faithful who wondered if she would ever return to the squared circle. With her real-life husband, CM Punk, returning to WWE in 2023, it was only a matter of time before Lee would make her appearance on WWE television once again. Now, with Lee on the roster, many will be fantasy booking who she should face in her second stint. Here, we will break down three dream opponents for Lee and why they are the perfect fit to be Lee’s future competitors.
Roxanne Perez:
It’s no surprise that this is the encounter fans want to see the most. Roxanne Perez has stated on multiple occasions how Lee was an inspiration for her growing up and how impactful she has been in her career as a professional wrestler. Many of Perez’s mannerisms are very similar to Lee's, and it would be an interesting dynamic to see the young superstar go against someone whom she has admired all her life. It also allows Perez to work with a veteran, giving her a larger opportunity to push her into the main event scene, where she can thrive for world title opportunities.
Bayley:
Bayley is one of those superstars who will always put up one of the best performances of the night, no matter who is across the ring from her. Bayley debuted on the main roster a year after Lee retired from in-ring competition, so they never got the opportunity to share a ring together. If Lee’s contract is for multiple matches, it would be amazing to watch two of the best competitors of their generation collide in a WWE ring. Whether as a heel or as a face, Bayley will make sure to step up and entertain the fans with her character work against the charismatic Lee.
Chelsea Green:
Chelsea Green is a sleeper pick when it comes to future opponents for Lee. Green has become one of the most entertaining superstars on the roster. Even though she plays as a heel, she consistently receives cheers in every arena she appears in. Green’s chemistry and ability to perfect every single role she’s asked to do make her a perfect candidate to share a ring with Lee. Whether she’s playing as a cocky or a terrified heel, Green is one of those competitors guaranteed to get a reaction from the crowd and leave them feeling satisfied regardless of the result.
