AJ Lee, whose real name is April Jeanette Mendez, and CM Punk, whose real name is Phillip Jack Brooks, first met in 2012 during a WWE on-screen storyline. The storyline involved a romantic triangle with Daniel Bryan, who was also a rival of CM Punk. Their on-screen chemistry eventually turned into a genuine friendship and later a romantic relationship.
The on-screen kiss between AJ Lee and CM Punk in 2012 was a pivotal moment in their storyline. AJ Lee recounted the moment in her book, saying it took her by surprise. Behind the scenes, CM Punk would often text AJ Lee and offer her advice on how to finesse their on-screen chemistry. This interaction laid the groundwork for their future relationship.
AJ Lee and CM Punk started as friends, dated other people, and decided to give dating a chance once they were both single at the same time. In an interview, AJ Lee shared that CM Punk always respected her, even off-script, and their relationship evolved from friendship to marriage in a short period of time. The two became engaged in April 2014 and got married on June 13, 2014.
AJ Lee and CM Punk share personal struggles and experiences, which drew them closer together. Both have battled mental health issues and challenging family backgrounds. AJ Lee has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, a condition her mother also suffered from. CM Punk's mother also struggled with bipolar disorder, providing a common ground for understanding each other's challenges.
On their wedding day, WWE sent termination papers to CM Punk, who had parted ways with WWE after Royal Rumble 2014 over creative differences and was later fired by Vince McMahon. Despite this, CM Punk refused to let it spoil the day, calling it the "right moment" for his marriage. AJ Lee remained in WWE for months following her wedding.
AJ Lee retired from the ring shortly after WrestleMania 31 due to damage to her spine. Born on March 19, 1987, in Union City, New Jersey, AJ Lee began working to afford wrestling training after dropping out of college. She debuted on the New Jersey independent scene under the name of Miss April in late 2007 and eventually got the attention of WWE, which led to a tryout camp in May 2009.
AJ Lee made her return to WWE on the September 5, 2025, episode of SmackDown after a decade away. She is a three-time WWE Divas Champion with a reign of over 400 days. Her relationship with CM Punk has been one of wrestling's most enduring love stories, and they renewed their vows in 2023.
Key points
- AJ Lee and CM Punk met in 2012 through a WWE on-screen storyline and eventually tied the knot in 2014.
- The couple shares personal struggles, including battles with mental health and challenging family backgrounds.
- AJ Lee made her return to WWE in 2025 after a decade away.
