Chris Jericho‘s absence from AEW television since April 2025 has fueled widespread speculation about a possible return, especially considering his AEW contract reportedly expired at the end of last year. Fans anticipated that Jericho might reappear at WWE’s 2026 Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, but with no appearance there and his name still on AEW’s roster, a comeback to AEW seems increasingly plausible.
If Jericho does return to AEW, several intriguing possibilities arise for how The Ayatollah of Rock and Rolla could shake up the promotion.
Potential Matchup with Kazuchika Okada
One of Chris Jericho’s most memorable matches was against Kazuchika Okada at New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s Dominion event in 2019, where Jericho was defeated by The Rainmaker. Despite both being part of AEW’s roster simultaneously, these two stars have yet to face each other in the promotion. Jericho’s return could finally provide fans with the long-anticipated rematch, which would generate significant excitement and have all the elements of a blockbuster encounter under Tony Khan’s banner.
First Singles Encounter Against Adam Copeland in AEW
Adam Copeland, formerly known as Edge in WWE, has a storied history with Jericho, marked by numerous battles and alliances in WWE. However, they have never clashed in a singles match within AEW. With Copeland also absent since the All Out 2025 pay-per-view, Jericho’s comeback might coincide with Copeland’s return, offering Tony Khan the perfect opportunity to headline a major AEW show with this marquee matchup.
Renewing Rivalry with Will Ospreay
The rivalry between Jericho and Will Ospreay reached a high point at AEW’s All In event in 2023, where Ospreay came out on top. Should Jericho come back, he could reignite this feud, delivering a highly anticipated rematch that fans have been eager to see. This, however, depends on Ospreay’s recovery from a neck injury before he can return to active competition.
Clashing with Rising Star Swerve Strickland
Swerve Strickland has evolved from a mid-card WWE performer into a main-event level star in AEW, having faced established talents like Hangman Adam Page and Bryan Danielson. Jericho’s potential comeback could open the door for a high-profile battle with Strickland, pitting an experienced veteran against one of AEW’s brightest emerging stars, which would surely attract considerable attention.
Helping Propel Kevin Knight’s Career Forward
Known for elevating younger talent throughout his career, Jericho’s return could benefit AEW’s Kevin Knight, a member of the JetSpeed faction and recent AEW World Trios Champion. Knight delivered a notable main event performance against Swerve Strickland just weeks ago on Dynamite. Jericho could serve as a key figure in accelerating Knight’s rise through a significant in-ring showdown, underscoring his role as a talent builder within the company.
Chris Jericho’s return to AEW would not only excite fans but also provide Tony Khan with numerous creative options to revitalize storylines and elevate emerging stars. The impact of such a comeback could ripple throughout AEW’s roster and booking plans, making the promotion’s future shows worth watching closely.
Chris Jericho is currently still listed on the official AEW roster page. pic.twitter.com/dViyzcIexF
— EliteRockerz 𝕏 (@EliteClubS0B) January 31, 2026
