Chris Jericho, a pivotal figure in AEW‘s expansion since signing in 2019, has not appeared on television since April 2025, sparking rumors about his possible departure from the promotion. According to insider reports, there is growing speculation within AEW that Jericho might not return, with many anticipating a surprising move to WWE, potentially as a Royal Rumble entrant. However, his current contract with AEW extends through the end of the year, leaving the situation uncertain for now.
John Cena’s Career Nears Its End with Retirement Plans
John Cena’s retirement continues to be a major storyline in professional wrestling this year. Despite his remarkable run capturing the Undisputed WWE Championship and delivering his first heel run in nearly 20 years, Cena is expected to retire by December 2025. In a recent appearance on Good Morning America, the 17-time world champion acknowledged that physical strain is a key factor in his decision to step away.
“You know what, it’s not bad. It is time to step away, for sure. I’m noticing all the lights on the dash of like ‘check engine, low tire.’ It’s time to step away. But as we get into this last final run, these last 11 dates, I feel pretty good, pretty much… It is time to go in for maintenance, yes.”
—John Cena, WWE Superstar
Cena’s final match is scheduled for December 2025, marking the conclusion of a celebrated wrestling career that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Hardy Boyz Tease Retirement After TNA Tag Team Title Defense
The Hardy Boyz, Matt and Jeff, legendary competitors in tag team wrestling, recently hinted at retirement following their upcoming match at Bound for Glory 2025. Currently holding the TNA World Tag Team Championships, the duo suggested they may reconsider their active wrestling careers depending on the outcome of their title defense against The Dudley Boyz.
“I mean, hypothetically, if that did happen, if we went to Bound for Glory and The Dudley’s won the TNA World Tag Team Titles, I think we’ll have to take a long hard look in the mirror and kind of judge where we are at. Is it time to ride off into the sunset and do the TNA Hall of Fame, time to do the WWE Hall of Fame? You know, we’ll see,”
—Matt Hardy, TNA World Tag Team Champion
This possible retirement would mark the end of one of wrestling’s most iconic tag teams, whose influence has been felt across multiple generations.
WWE Programming Shifts Highlight Cena and Logan Paul’s Rivalry
The latest WWE SmackDown, held in Dublin, Ireland, showcased unexpected twists surrounding John Cena and Logan Paul. Initially, Cena confronted Nick Aldis to discuss Brock Lesnar’s status, only for Logan Paul to suddenly interrupt with a knockout punch. However, WWE altered this sequence after the live broadcast, airing a revised version where Paul attacked Aldis first before striking Cena. This change was intended to build further tension ahead of Cena and Paul’s upcoming singles match at Clash in Paris 2025.
WWE’s Strategic Moves with Austin Theory and Grayson Waller
Austin Theory and Grayson Waller, once a tag team, were separated suddenly last month. Although no official reason was provided at first, it has since emerged that Theory’s injury influenced this decision. WWE management also aimed to maintain Waller’s presence on television by aligning him with The New Day on WWE RAW. These reshuffles reflect ongoing challenges in WWE’s roster management and storyline development.
Significance of These Developments in Wrestling’s Landscape
The speculation surrounding Chris Jericho AEW departure rumors, combined with the imminent retirements of John Cena and possibly the Hardy Boyz, signals a potential generational shift within professional wrestling. Jericho’s possible move to WWE could generate substantial buzz, especially as Cena’s era winds down and the Hardy Boyz consider stepping away from active competition. Fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely as these influential careers reach pivotal moments, which will likely shape wrestling’s future narratives and talent landscape.
