In the world of WWE, on-screen storylines often blend into real-life relationships, as seen with CM Punk and AJ Lee wrestling love that blossomed backstage. The couple, who began as scripted partners, have maintained their relationship off-camera and now mark over a decade of being together with a special celebration.
AJ Lee, known as the Geek Goddess, began her wrestling career two years before signing a WWE developmental contract in May 2009, investing $1,500 for a WWE tryout. Rising quickly through Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), she gained attention as a contestant on NXT Season 3, where her first storyline romance was with her WWE Pro mentor, Primo. AJ made her main roster debut in May 2011, briefly playing Hornswoggle’s girlfriend.
Storyline Relationships That Shaped Their On-Screen Chemistry
AJ’s character soon engaged in a notable romantic storyline with Daniel Bryan, which expanded to include his tag team partner Kane and rival CM Punk, who was WWE Champion at the time. This complex love triangle featured surprise twists, including an affair with John Cena, followed by a betrayal to partner with Dolph Ziggler. Though their on-screen roles were entwined with multiple wrestlers, Punk and AJ’s real-life partnership remained strong.
AJ left WWE approximately one year after Punk’s controversial exit from the company. The couple’s bond was further solidified when they married on June 13, 2014, in Chicago, just months after Punk’s departure from WWE.
Milestones and Memorable Moments in WWE History
AJ Lee made WWE history on the July 3, 2012, episode of SmackDown by sharing prominent on-screen kisses with Michael Cole, CM Punk, and Daniel Bryan. During these segments, AJ had previously kissed Punk on the cheek in the buildup to the Super SmackDown episode of The Great American Bash, held in Corpus Christi, Texas.
That night, Bryan Danielson, formerly Daniel Bryan, received AJ’s first ring kiss, which concluded with her sharing a kiss with Punk at ringside—an iconic moment that remains popular with fans on social media. Punk commemorated this anniversary on Instagram Stories, humorously pointing out that he and his best friend tied the knot soon after this memorable scene.
While Punk and AJ never formally teamed together in matches, AJ took on the role of special referee during a high-profile RAW tag team match on October 1, 2012. In that event, WWE Tag Team Champions Team Hell No, made up of Kane and Daniel Bryan, defeated the duo of Punk and Dolph Ziggler in a non-title match.
Why This Wrestling Romance Resonates with Fans Today
The WWE Universe continues to express strong support for AJ Lee’s return, especially following Punk’s comeback in 2023. Although AJ has only sporadically engaged with wrestling since leaving WWE, their relationship remains a celebrated chapter in wrestling history. Their 13-year milestone highlights a rare instance where a scripted storyline evolved into a lasting real-life partnership, inspiring fans and adding depth to wrestling’s entertainment world.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is CM Punk’s religion?
A. Punk acted in the horror movies “Girl on the Third Floor” and “Rabid” in 2019, and “Jakob’s Wife” in 2021. He also took on a role in the wrestling drama series “Heels” from 2021 to 2023. Besides acting, he works as a part-time commentator for Cage Fury Fighting Championships. Punk follows a straight-edge lifestyle and holds atheist beliefs.
Q. Is CM Punk a millionaire?
A. CM Punk, a well-known wrestler famous for his WWE career, MMA, and acting, is still successful in 2025. He made a notable return to WWE in 2023 and earns a high salary. His estimated net worth is $12 million. Real estate investments and endorsements add to his financial achievements.
Q. Is CM Punk religious?
A. The professional wrestler, who goes by the stage name CM Punk, has stated, “I do not believe in any gods.”
Q. Is CM Punk’s tattoo a Pepsi logo?
A. CM Punk has publicly shared details about the well-known Pepsi logo tattoo located just under his left shoulder for many years.
