AJ Mendez: American Professional Wrestler and Author
AJ Mendez, also known as AJ Lee, is an iconic figure in professional wrestling and a talented author whose story inspires millions. Born on March 19, 1987, in Union City, New Jersey, USA, AJ gained fame as a professional wrestler in WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and later as a writer, sharing her personal and professional journey. This article explores AJ Mendez’s life, career, and legacy, highlighting her achievements in the ring and her transition to literature, with a special focus on her cultural impact.
Early Life and Influences
Humble Beginnings
AJ Mendez, born April Jeanette Mendez, grew up in a Puerto Rican family in New Jersey. Her childhood was marked by financial and personal challenges, including periods of family instability and economic hardship. Despite these difficulties, AJ found solace in passions like comic books, video games, and, most notably, professional wrestling, which became a source of inspiration from an early age.
Passion for Wrestling
From a young age, AJ was captivated by professional wrestling, watching WWE events with her family. Wrestlers like Lita, Trish Stratus, and Rey Mysterio inspired her to dream of a career in the ring. Her determination led her to train tirelessly, even overcoming barriers such as her small stature (5’2”) in a sport dominated by imposing figures.
Professional Wrestling Career
Early Steps in Wrestling
AJ’s wrestling journey began in 2007 when she entered the independent scene under the ring name Miss April. After training at local wrestling schools, she competed in smaller promotions, such as Women Superstars Uncensored (WSU), where she began developing her unique style, blending agility, charisma, and technical skills.
In 2009, AJ signed a contract with WWE, a major milestone in her career. She initially competed in Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), WWE’s developmental territory, where she adopted the name AJ Lee. Her ability to connect with audiences and her magnetic presence in the ring quickly drew attention.
Rise in WWE
Debut on NXT and SmackDown
AJ made her television debut in 2010, participating in the third season of NXT, a WWE reality show for up-and-coming talent. Although she didn’t win the competition, her captivating personality and in-ring skills stood out. In 2011, she was promoted to WWE’s main roster, appearing on the SmackDown program.
Role as the “Geek Goddess”
AJ became known as the “Geek Goddess,” a character that reflected her passion for pop culture and her authenticity. Unlike the stereotypical Divas of the time, who were often portrayed based on glamour, AJ brought a unique approach, combining vulnerability and strength. Her relatable character resonated with fans who saw her as a representation of ordinary people with big dreams.
In-Ring Achievements
Between 2012 and 2015, AJ reached the peak of her WWE career. She won the Divas Championship three times, establishing herself as one of the company’s top female stars. Her longest reign, lasting 295 days from 2013 to 2014, is one of the most memorable in the title’s history. During this period, AJ faced opponents like Kaitlyn, Paige, and the Bella Twins, delivering unforgettable matches that raised the standard of the women’s division.
AJ also shone in dramatic storylines, such as her feuds involving Daniel Bryan, CM Punk, and Dolph Ziggler. Her ability to perform in promos (spoken segments) and her chemistry with other wrestlers made her a central figure in many WWE storylines.
Impact on the Women’s Division
During AJ’s time in WWE, the women’s division was often criticized for its lack of depth and opportunities. AJ was a pioneer in changing this perception, bringing technical matches and compelling storylines to the forefront. Her influence paved the way for the so-called “Women’s Revolution” in WWE, which began in 2015, with a greater focus on high-quality matches and well-developed female characters.
Early Retirement
In 2015, at the age of 28, AJ Mendez announced her retirement from professional wrestling due to injuries, including cervical spine issues. Her departure shocked fans, but she left behind a lasting legacy. AJ was one of the first women to prove that charisma, technical skill, and authenticity could transcend stereotypes in wrestling.
Transition to Writing
Release of Crazy Is My Superpower
After leaving WWE, AJ Mendez channeled her creative energy into writing. In 2017, she published her autobiography, Crazy Is My Superpower, which became a New York Times bestseller. The book is a blend of personal memoirs, reflections on her wrestling career, and a candid discussion about mental health.
In the book, AJ opens up about her struggle with bipolar disorder, a condition she faced since her teenage years. With honesty and humor, she describes how she turned personal challenges into strengths, inspiring readers to embrace their own vulnerabilities. The book’s title reflects her belief that what society deems “craziness” can be a source of power and resilience.
Impact of the Autobiography
Crazy Is My Superpower was widely praised by critics and readers for its authenticity and empowering message. The book not only details her wrestling journey but also explores universal themes like acceptance, overcoming adversity, and identity. AJ became an advocate for mental health awareness, using her platform to destigmatize bipolar disorder and other conditions.
Other Literary Projects
Beyond her autobiography, AJ continued to explore writing in other formats. She contributed scripts for comic books and worked on creative projects related to pop culture, her lifelong passion. Her storytelling skills, honed in wrestling, translated seamlessly into writing, cementing her reputation as a multifaceted author.
Personal Life
Marriage to CM Punk
AJ Mendez is married to Phil Brooks, better known as CM Punk, a former WWE wrestler and current star in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). The couple met in WWE and married in 2014. Their relationship is often celebrated by fans as an example of mutual support, with both sharing passions for wrestling, comics, and activism.
Activism and Philanthropy
Outside the ring and writing, AJ is an advocate for causes such as mental health, animal rights, and inclusion. She collaborates with organizations promoting mental health awareness and supports initiatives for animal adoption. Her authenticity and openness about her personal struggles have made her an inspiration to many.
Legacy and Influence
Impact on Wrestling
AJ Mendez left an indelible mark on professional wrestling. Her ability to connect with audiences, combined with her in-ring talent, made her one of WWE’s most beloved figures. She challenged gender norms and stereotypes, proving that smaller, unconventional women could be stars in wrestling.
Her influence is evident in the current generation of wrestlers, such as Becky Lynch, Sasha Banks, and Bayley, who cite AJ as an inspiration. The shift toward more complex female characters and high-quality matches in WWE can be traced back to pioneers like AJ, who helped redefine the women’s division.
Literary Contributions
As an author, AJ Mendez brought a fresh perspective to the genre of celebrity autobiographies. Crazy Is My Superpower is not just the story of a wrestler but a universal narrative about resilience and self-discovery. Her success as a writer expanded her reach, connecting with readers who may never have watched a wrestling match.
Cultural Icon
AJ is an icon for wrestling and pop culture fans alike. Her “Geek Goddess” persona resonates with those who identify with nerd culture, while her story of overcoming adversity inspires people from all walks of life. Her ability to navigate both sports entertainment and literature showcases her versatility and lasting impact.
Conclusion
AJ Mendez is more than a former professional wrestler or author; she is a transformative force who defied expectations and inspired millions. From her humble beginnings in New Jersey to the WWE ring and the pages of a bestselling book, her journey is a testament to determination, authenticity, and courage. Whether as the “Geek Goddess” who won the hearts of wrestling fans or the author who bared her soul in Crazy Is My Superpower, AJ Mendez continues to leave a legacy that transcends sports and literature.
