WWE superstar AJ Lee prepares intensely for her first one-on-one match in 11 years, set to challenge Becky Lynch for the Intercontinental Championship at Elimination Chamber.
The 38-year-old wrestler made her in-ring return at WrestlePalooza last September and participated in WarGames in November. This clash marks her debut singles bout since her loss to Nikki Bella on the March 16, 2015, episode of Monday Night Raw.
Bayley’s Training Role and Locker Room Impact
Bayley detailed her assistance in preparing AJ during WWE 2K26 Creatorfest at WWE headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut. She emphasized the excitement of AJ and husband CM Punk rejoining the locker room.
“They’re the biggest superstars of all time,” Bayley stated. “Having AJ in our locker room, interacting with Nikki Bella, Nattie, and the rest of us, feels incredible.”
Bayley and Lyra Valkyria recently trained with AJ, prompting reflection on career growth and the strength of WWE’s women’s division. “The fact that someone like AJ wants to return shows how much we’ve advanced,” she added.
Impressions from Recent Sessions
Bayley praised AJ’s condition ahead of the match. “She looks incredible after 10 years away,” Bayley said. “I wondered if she had been in the ring weekly.”
She highlighted AJ’s sharp mindset: “Hearing how her mind works—questioning strategies and goals—was refreshing. That’s what makes her exceptional.”
CM Punk’s Joy in Shared Journey
CM Punk, featured on the WWE 2K26 cover, expressed delight in traveling and performing alongside his wife. “We occasionally exchange looks, amazed it’s happening,” he shared. “Switching seats on planes to sit together, sharing hotel rooms—it’s everything.”
“Every minute backstage or on the road with her, nothing else matters,” Punk beamed. When noting his enthusiasm, he laughed: “I try to play it cool, but I’m a goof.”
Full Circle Mentorship
Bayley cherishes contributing to AJ’s comeback. “It means more than WrestleMania spots or titles when someone seeks your help,” she reflected.
Lessons from AJ influence Bayley’s guidance for Lyra Valkyria and wrestlers at her Lodestone camp, featuring guests like John Cena, Bianca Belair, Cora Jade, and Rhea Ripley. “AJ taught me to be myself for genuine connections,” Bayley explained. “Lyra the person shines beyond the wrestler.”
The camp bridges independent and signed talent. “We need them to strengthen our industry,” Bayley affirmed.
Excitement for WWE 2K26
Bayley anticipates WWE 2K26, releasing March 13, with early editions on March 6. Growing up idolizing Trish Stratus and Lita, she noted: “It keeps improving—far beyond my dreams.” AJ appears on the roster alongside Punk.
WrestleMania Mindset
As WrestleMania nears, Bayley focuses forward despite Becky Lynch replacing her as Lyra Valkyria’s tag partner last year. “It’s tough, but feeling it is healthy,” she said. “Whether things go your way or not, keep pushing like John Cena and prove doubters wrong.”
