Morning Daily News Update: August 26, 2026 – Backstage Update Emerges On AJ Lee’s WWE In-Ring Future

Morning everyone!

It’s Wednesday, and it’s time for the Morning Daily News Update!

Let’s check out what’s new on the blog:

Alex Podgorski posted a new (Almost) 5-Star Match Review for the No Ropes Barbed Wire Current Blast Death Match between Combat Toyoda and Megumi Kud at FMW Fighting Creation 1996
Niz posted a new “A Moment In Time” for WWE’s WeeLC match from Extreme Rules 2014
Mike uploaded a new “Mike Looks Back” for part three of the retrospective for the WWE European Title
Niz also reviewed last night’s episode of WWE NXT

AJ Lee Hasn’t Had Her Last WWE Match After Return

AJ Lee is reportedly expected to wrestle again for WWE despite remaining absent from television since WrestleMania 42. According to Fightful Select, sources believe Lee has not competed in her final WWE match, although her name has not been discussed in connection with the ongoing Paige and Bella Twins storyline. Lee returned to WWE in 2025 after more than a decade away, initially joining CM Punk against Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins. She later defeated Lynch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship at Elimination Chamber 2026 before losing the title back to her at WrestleMania 42, which remains Lee’s most recent WWE appearance.

WWE featuring The Rock in upcoming Hawaii tryouts

WWE has advertised upcoming tryouts in Honolulu, Hawaii, for October 16 and 17, with The Rock prominently featured in the promotional graphic. The company has not explicitly confirmed that The Rock will attend the tryouts, despite his inclusion alongside Roman Reigns and The Usos. The event will take place at the Blaisdell Arena as WWE searches for potential new talent in Hawaii. The Rock has strong ties to the state, having grown up there, while his grandparents helped run the Polynesian Pro Wrestling territory.

ESPN Slams Report Claiming It Won’t Renew WWE Partnership

ESPN has denied a report claiming it has decided not to renew its WWE agreement when the current deal expires. In a statement, ESPN said there was “no truth” to the claim and criticised the outlet for not contacting the company before publication, adding that it would have described the report as “completely false.” SEScoops had reported that the relationship faced several issues, including the media market, concerns over “culture and synergy” and distribution of the ESPN app. The outlet also claimed discussions between ESPN and WWE had recently increased and suggested the agreement could still benefit from subscriber growth and wider distribution.

AEW Dynamite Lineup Confirmed For August 26, 2026

Check out the lineup for tonight’s episode of AEW Dynamite.