AJ Mendez, widely known by her WWE ring name AJ Lee, has captivated audiences not only with her groundbreaking wrestling career but also with her distinctive and often public romantic journey. From her early days in independent wrestling to her impactful tenure in WWE and beyond, Mendez's relationships have frequently intersected with her professional life, evolving from formative connections to a lasting marriage.
One of Mendez's earliest significant relationships was with fellow professional wrestler and her trainer, Jay Lethal. Dating from approximately 2007 to 2010, their connection began when Mendez enrolled in a wrestling school in March 2007, where Lethal was one of her instructors. This period marked the beginning of her professional wrestling career on the independent circuit, where they even teamed up to win the WSU/National Wrestling Superstars King and Queen of the Ring tournament, blending their personal and professional lives.
Following her relationship with Lethal, Mendez entered a new phase of her life upon signing with WWE. During her time in WWE's developmental system and early main roster appearances, she dated fellow wrestler Trent Barreta, whose real name is Greg Marasciulo. Their relationship lasted from 2011 to 2012, a period when both were navigating their careers within the demanding WWE environment. Mendez later acknowledged Barreta in her New York Times bestselling memoir, "Crazy Is My Superpower," noting his kindness and how he was well-received by her family, offering a glimpse into their private connection.
Amidst her rising prominence in WWE, Mendez was also linked to other on-screen storylines that blurred the lines between fiction and reality, most notably with Dolph Ziggler. Their strong on-screen chemistry, particularly after Mendez helped Ziggler retain his Money in the Bank briefcase in 2012, led to widespread speculation among fans about a real-life romance. However, Mendez consistently denied these rumors, clarifying that Ziggler was merely a close friend and their interactions were purely for entertainment purposes within the wrestling narrative.
The most significant chapter in AJ Mendez's romantic history began with her relationship with fellow WWE superstar CM Punk, whose real name is Phillip Jack Brooks. Their connection initially developed through their professional interactions within WWE, with their on-screen storylines eventually blossoming into a genuine romance. The couple began dating in September 2013, quickly becoming one of professional wrestling's most prominent power couples.
Their relationship culminated in marriage on June 13, 2014, in a private and intimate ceremony. This date became particularly notable as it coincided with CM Punk's contentious departure from WWE, adding a layer of bittersweet significance to their wedding day. Despite the professional turmoil surrounding Punk's exit, their bond remained strong, marking a pivotal moment for both individuals as they transitioned into new phases of their lives outside the wrestling giant.
Since their marriage, AJ Mendez and CM Punk have largely maintained a private life, residing in both Los Feliz, California, and Chicago, Illinois. Mendez retired from in-ring competition in 2015, focusing on her successful writing career and various production projects, while Punk explored opportunities in mixed martial arts and later returned to professional wrestling with AEW before rejoining WWE. Their enduring partnership has been a testament to their mutual support and shared values.
As of 2024, AJ Mendez and CM Punk have celebrated ten years of marriage, a remarkable milestone for any couple, especially those who have navigated the intense public scrutiny of the entertainment industry. Their relationship stands as a quiet but powerful example of enduring love, built on a foundation laid during their shared experiences in the wrestling world. Mendez's romantic journey, from early career relationships to her long-standing marriage, reflects a personal evolution alongside her professional triumphs, culminating in a stable and private partnership that continues to thrive.