Since the debut of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2019, Chris Jericho has remained an influential figure within the organization, maintaining a strong relationship with AEW President Tony Khan. However, Jericho has been on a break from wrestling following recent tensions with the AEW fanbase and his own decision to step away temporarily. This hiatus comes amid growing speculation and rumors about his future, including the possibility of a WWE return, which has stirred interest across the wrestling community and WWE Universe.
Jericho’s last match took place on April 6 at AEW Dynasty, where he lost the ROH World Championship to Bandido after a 165-day reign. Shortly after, during an episode of Dynamite, Jericho abruptly left following a confrontation involving The Learning Tree’s Big Bill and Bryan Keith. This moment was marked by heightened fan frustration, with chants urging Jericho to retire, despite his ongoing success in adapting his wrestling persona over the years.
Rather than continuing in AEW storylines, Jericho chose to focus on touring with his band Fozzy in celebration of their 25th anniversary, indicating a personal need for a break. Plans to mix his musical endeavors with AEW appearances were ultimately shelved. Reports surfaced about Jericho’s physical transformation during this time, highlighting his weight loss as part of his hiatus.
Details on Jericho’s AEW Contract Status
In April, sources revealed that Jericho had no set timeline for returning to AEW programming, suggesting a concealed comeback was in the works. By the time his Fozzy tour concluded, it became clear that Jericho was awaiting a fresh creative direction and the approval of Tony Khan to resume wrestling. This has led to intense discussions around free agency within AEW, especially as contracts for notable talents like Private Party and Danhausen are nearing expiration, with WWE showing interest in acquiring some of these wrestlers.
Chris Jericho had signed a three-year extension with AEW not long after his victory over Bryan Danielson at All Out 2022. Despite speculation that Khan might be freezing Jericho’s contract during his inactivity—thereby effectively prolonging its term—the most recent information states that Jericho’s agreement was originally set to expire at the end of 2023.
Contrary to earlier rumors suggesting October as the end date for his AEW contract, new updates indicate that Jericho remains under contract through December. Meanwhile, Fozzy’s upcoming tour dates are not scheduled until late February and March in the UK, which could influence Jericho’s availability for wrestling engagements.
WWE Return Rumors and Their Implications
The wrestling world has recently witnessed high-profile returns of star performers like Cody Rhodes and CM Punk to WWE after their runs in AEW. While Jericho has repeatedly downplayed any desire to rejoin WWE in recent years, the rumors surrounding a possible comeback and even a Hall of Fame induction for him continue to circulate, gaining traction particularly following his walkout at Dynamite.
Such rumors contribute to the anxious atmosphere surrounding Jericho’s current status, leaving fans and industry insiders uncertain about his next moves. Whether this break will culminate in a new role within AEW, a surprise return to WWE, or a continued focus on his musical career remains to be seen.
What Lies Ahead for Chris Jericho?
The extension of Jericho’s AEW contract through December assures his official ties to the company for the near term, but his absence from active competition and the ongoing speculation create a sense of unease about the future. Jericho’s decisions over the next few months will likely shape not only his professional path but also the broader landscape of professional wrestling talent movements.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely for any announcements from Tony Khan, Jericho himself, or WWE to clarify the trajectory of his career. With Fozzy’s touring schedule spaced out, Jericho may have the flexibility to return to wrestling or continue exploring opportunities beyond the ring, maintaining his legacy in either realm.
