Mick Foley Reflects on AJ Lee’s Success Within WWE

On Friday, April 3, WWE announced AJ Lee, its longest-reigning Divas Champion, had made a sudden retirement from the company. Following the news, a variety of past and present WWE employees took to social media, reacting to the news. One of those who briefly commented on the story, WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley, would take to his Facebook page in order to offer a more in-depth take on AJ Lee’s retirement.

Mick Foley talked about how AJ Lee was a pioneer within WWE’s Divas division. Foley was also a bit saddened that AJ will not be on-hand for what he believes will soon be a women’s wrestling “revolution” in WWE.

Below is Foley’s post in full:

THANK YOU AJ

“AJ Lee has retired from WWE – and somehow that just doesn’t seem right. I have been talking for a while about a revolution in women’s wrestling – and I really do believe we are on the verge of a new dawn for women’s wrestling. When that new dawn arrives, it would seem only fitting that AJ be allowed to bask in the warmth of the rays she helped make possible.”

AJ Lee was a pioneer – fighting her way up against all odds in the WWE developmental system, proving that unique talent, heart, and determination were just as important (if not more so) as the physical attributes that were generally accepted as necessary to find a spot near the top of the women’s roster.”

“The success of AJ Lee, as both a wrestler, and a character were eye-opening for both fans and WWE front office personnel. She proved that big things come in small packages and that both role models and romantic images need not adhere to a one-size-fits-all policy. Surely, she helped pave the way for an anti-diva like Paige to succeed, and when/if this women’s wrestling revolution materializes, I hope the contributions of the tiny girl from New Jersey with the big dreams and bigger heart will not be forgotten.”

“Thank you AJ. May health and happiness (and CM Punk) be your partners on whatever new trail you choose to blaze in life.”

Editor’s Note

As always, good insight from Mick Foley.