Becky Lynch, the current Women’s Intercontinental Champion, declared her plans to retire AJ Lee during the WWE Elimination Chamber event slated for February 28, 2026, in Chicago. Lynch expressed her belief that AJ Lee does not merit a title opportunity, dismissing Lee’s latest return as a short-lived phase.
Speaking on ESPN’s SportsCenter, Lynch stated that Lee’s time in the spotlight has passed and suggested that AJ Lee ranks as the least talented AJ to announce retirement this year, referencing AJ Styles’ recent departure from wrestling. Lynch remarked,
Her time is over and it should be over. We’ve moved on, we’ve moved past her…very excited to see the end of her and to retire her. Unfortunately for her, she will be the least talented AJ to retire this year.
?Becky Lynch, Women’s Intercontinental Champion
AJ Lee Shares Aspirations for Future Match Against Bayley
In response to the growing attention, AJ Lee took to ESPN’s Instagram to reveal her dream opponent among current WWE talent. She named Bayley as the competitor she wishes to face, highlighting their past encounter during her Diva’s Title reign and expressing excitement about the possibility of a renewed rivalry.
My dream match would be Bayley. I think I got to have one match with her way back in the day when I had the Diva’s Title, so it’ll be really cool to see who we are now and get my hands on her in the ring.
?AJ Lee, Former WWE Diva’s Champion
Recent Highlights from WWE SmackDown Featuring Oba Femi and The Miz
On the February 27, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown in Louisville, KY, newcomer Oba Femi secured a decisive victory over The Miz. Prior to the match, The Miz attempted to avoid confrontation by proposing mentorship and likening Femi to a future Undertaker. Femi quickly rejected the comparison and retorted with the phrase,
“I see no resemblance, but you do look like a DEAD MAN to me!”
This remark led to a sudden shift in momentum as Femi halted The Miz’s retreat, executed a powerful lariat, and finished with his signature Fall From Grace maneuver for the pinfall win.
Implications for WWE’s Women’s Division and Future Storylines
The brewing rivalry between Becky Lynch and AJ Lee marks a significant development in WWE’s women’s roster as the Elimination Chamber event approaches. Lynch’s firm stance on retiring Lee could shape the division’s direction while setting up high-stakes matches that attract fan attention. AJ Lee’s expressed interest in facing Bayley adds further intrigue, indicating that fresh rivalries and matchups may follow this year’s major events.
With rising talents like Oba Femi making an impact on SmackDown and veteran stars poised for key storylines, WWE appears focused on blending legacy and emerging competitors to maintain momentum across its programming.
Looks like @Obaofwwe doesn't need @mikethemiz's help 🤭 pic.twitter.com/98DSZeMzpl
— WWE (@WWE) February 28, 2026
