Tony Khan faces a possible challenge as rumors swirl regarding AJ Lee’s return to WWE following the recent Clash in Paris event. Lee, who has been absent from professional wrestling for more than a decade, could significantly impact the industry if she makes a comeback. In response, AEW might look to counter this with a bold move of their own, possibly involving former WWE star Beth Phoenix.
Beth Phoenix, a WWE Hall of Famer and former Divas and Women’s Champion, has been a free agent for the past year. With her husband, Adam Copeland, actively participating in AEW, her potential debut in AEW appears increasingly plausible. Phoenix’s return could provide a powerful contrast to AJ Lee’s rumored WWE comeback.
Beth Phoenix’s Potential AEW Return Builds Anticipation
Despite being out of the wrestling ring for over two years, Beth Phoenix has frequently sparked speculation about a comeback through her active social media presence. Often sharing gym photos that highlight her fitness, she seems poised for a possible return. Additionally, reports have noted Phoenix’s backstage appearances at recent AEW events, likely to support her husband Copeland, suggesting a positive relationship with AEW management.
While no official announcement has been made, the chance of Phoenix joining AEW remains significant. AEW could leverage her reputation and legacy as a former Women’s Champion to counterbalance the buzz around AJ Lee’s WWE return rumors. How this situation unfolds will be critical for both promotions’ women’s divisions.

Speculation Grows Around a Showdown Between Beth Phoenix and Mercedes Mone
Fans have begun to speculate wildly if Beth Phoenix makes her AEW debut, especially regarding possible opponents. One prominent theory imagines Phoenix challenging AEW TBS Champion Mercedes Mone. This idea gained traction after Phoenix posted a photo of Mone on her Instagram without any caption, igniting discussions about a potential rivalry.
This matchup, Mone versus Phoenix, is viewed by many as having the potential to headline future AEW pay-per-views. Mercedes Mone, often referred to as “The CEO,” has faced challenges finding a clear direction in AEW recently. The arrival of a formidable and established competitor like Phoenix could offer a fresh, compelling storyline and become a lucrative “money match” for AEW.
The Impact on AEW and WWE Women’s Wrestling Landscape
If Beth Phoenix officially joins AEW, it would not only counter AJ Lee’s rumored WWE return but also shake up the competitive dynamic between the two organizations. Both women are former champions with high profiles, and their movements have the power to influence fan interest markedly. AEW fans and insiders will be watching closely as these developments unfold, with the potential for new rivalries and storylines to emerge on both sides.
How Tony Khan navigates this situation will reveal much about AEW’s strategy to maintain momentum in women’s wrestling amid shifting talent stories. Meanwhile, WWE’s possible reintroduction of AJ Lee may signal a renewed focus on its women’s division, raising the stakes across the wrestling industry.
