CM Punk Wife AJ Lee: Where Is The Former WWE Champion In 2026?

As CM Punk (Phil Brooks) continues to dominate headlines in August 2026 during his high-profile WWE run, wrestling fans are increasingly searching for details about his wife, former WWE Divas Champion AJ Lee (AJ Mendez). While her husband performs in front of millions worldwide, Mendez has forged an incredibly successful and distinct path of her own. From breaking barriers in the ring to finding critical acclaim as a writer, her career trajectory remains one of the most unique in sports entertainment history.

Context & Background: From WWE Power Couple to Private Life

AJ Mendez and CM Punk first crossed paths during their time in WWE, where they were involved in prominent on-screen storylines before developing a real-life relationship. The couple officially tied the knot on June 13, 2014. Shortly after their marriage, both departed the professional wrestling industry under highly publicized circumstances, shifting their focus toward new creative endeavors.

During her active wrestling career, Mendez was widely recognized as a catalyst for the WWE Women's Evolution. At a time when women's matches were often brief, she demanded spotlight and respect, capturing the WWE Divas Championship three times. However, citing permanent damage to her cervical spine and a desire to pursue other passions, she officially retired from in-ring competition in April 2015, leaving behind a lasting legacy that continues to influence modern female competitors.

Impact & Utility: Authorship, Screenwriting, and Mental Health Advocacy

Since stepping away from the squared circle, AJ Mendez has built an impressive portfolio as a writer and advocate. Her transition into literary and entertainment media has established her as a prominent creative voice:

• Bestselling Author: Her 2017 memoir, Crazy Is My Superpower: How I Triumphed by Breaking Bones, Breaking Hearts, and Breaking the Rules, became a New York Times bestseller, offering an honest look at her upbringing and her battles with bipolar disorder.
• Screenwriting and Production: Mendez transitioned into Hollywood, co-writing the screenplay for the action film Blade of the 47 Ronin (2022) and collaborating on various comic book projects, including work for DC Entertainment.
• Executive Producer: She returned to the wrestling world in a non-wrestling capacity as an executive producer and color commentator for WOW - Women Of Wrestling during its relaunch.
• Mental Health Advocacy: Mendez regularly partners with organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to destigmatize mental health discussions, utilizing her platform to support young adults facing similar struggles.

Mendez and Brooks reside in Chicago, maintaining a notoriously private home life with their beloved rescue dog, Larry. Despite their massive public profiles, the couple has successfully kept their personal lives out of the tabloid spotlight.

What's Next: Will AJ Lee Return to WWE in 2026?

With CM Punk's triumphant return to WWE and his prominent position on the roster as of 2026, speculation regarding an AJ Lee return has reached an all-time high. Wrestling fans have frequently theorized about a potential one-off appearance, royal rumble cameo, or a mixed tag team match alongside her husband.

While Mendez has occasionally teased fans on social media and remains in exceptional physical condition, she has consistently prioritized her screenwriting and literary deadlines. As of August 2026, no official plans have been announced for her return to WWE television. However, in the unpredictable landscape of professional wrestling, the door remains permanently open for one of the industry's most beloved pioneers.