What did AJ Lee do before WWE?

Before AJ Lee dazzled WWE audiences with her electrifying presence, she honed her craft and passion in the independent wrestling scene.

Born April Jeanette Mendez, her journey to wrestling stardom began in 2007.

Under the tutelage of Jay Lethal at the Jersey All Pro Wrestling (JAPW) School, AJ embarked on her wrestling odyssey.

Adopting the moniker “AJ Lee,” she stepped into the ring in 2008, capturing hearts with her remarkable agility and technical prowess.

Venturing into the independent circuit from 2008 to 2009, AJ showcased her skills across various promotions, seizing championships like the WSU Tag Team Championship and the PWG World Championship. It was here that she crafted her quirky persona and amassed a devoted fanbase.

The WWE beckoned in 2009, offering AJ a developmental contract. For two years, she honed her abilities in Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), clinching the FCW Divas Championship along the way.

2011 marked AJ’s arrival on WWE’s main roster, launching her into a remarkable career highlighted by three WWE Divas Championship reigns and a stint as Raw’s General Manager. Her enthralling storylines and in-ring prowess solidified her status as a WWE icon.

Although her in-ring career concluded in 2015, AJ’s impact transcends wrestling. An author, actress, and mental health advocate, she continues to inspire fans worldwide.