Chris Jericho AEW WWE return has been a subject of intense speculation in the wrestling community throughout 2025. Despite rumors of a WWE comeback, Jericho remains firmly contracted to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) through December 2025, following a three-year contract extension signed in October 2022 that also expanded his involvement as a producer and creative advisor.
The Reasons Behind Jericho’s Continued Commitment to AEW
Jericho, often known as the Demo God, has played a pivotal role in AEW’s expansion and popularity. Even though he has not appeared in the ring since April 2025, his backstage contributions continue to be significant. The discussion about him returning to WWE is mostly fueled by fan theories and social media speculation. While sources close to WWE acknowledge some interest in re-signing Jericho, no concrete plans have been made to bring him back at this stage.
Age and Physical Demands Limit WWE’s Interest in Jericho as a Wrestler
Dutch Mantell, speaking on the Story Time podcast, offered insight into why Chris Jericho is unlikely to leave AEW for WWE. Mantell emphasized that age plays a crucial role, suggesting that at 54, Jericho may no longer meet WWE’s expectations for active wrestlers, who typically need to maintain an elite level of physical fitness. Younger talents often attract more attention and generate higher draws, which limits Jericho’s prospective appeal as a star in the ring.
I think he’s going to stay where he is. I don’t think they (WWE) would be (interested in him). You know, I think he’s a great talent, but he’s a little bit, as they say, long in the tooth. How to do it. So, hey, I’ve been there. I mean, when you get out of that ring, and you get out of that, then you get out of shape, and you know, it gets harder and harder and harder. So, when you’re young, you can go and get in shape, and I don’t know how much drawing power he would have.
—Dutch Mantell, Wrestling Analyst
Mantell also conveyed that if WWE desired Jericho’s presence, it would likely be in a supporting or non-wrestling capacity rather than an in-ring role. Jericho’s best years as a performer are believed to be behind him, and Mantell suggested Jericho would acknowledge this himself, given his age.
If it was me, I would say I’d be interested in him as an agent or a manager or some kind of a, you know, mouthpiece. But in the ring, I think his better days are behind him. And I think he’ll even tell you the same thing. At 54, you’re not the same guy you are when you’re 24 or 34 or even 44. [3:07 onwards]
—Dutch Mantell, Wrestling Analyst
Jericho’s Expanded Role at AEW Beyond Wrestling
Since signing the three-year deal in 2022, Jericho’s involvement with AEW has broadened well beyond performing inside the ring. He has taken on significant responsibilities behind the scenes, including creative direction and production work. This expanded role allows him to leverage his experience while minimizing the physical toll that active wrestling demands, making AEW a fitting platform as he transitions into more of a backstage influencer.
Ongoing Fan and Industry Speculation About Jericho’s WWE Return
While WWE insiders admit there is interest in Chris Jericho, especially given his legacy and fan base, no formal negotiations are reported to be underway. Social media continues to fuel assumptions about Jericho’s return, but industry experts caution that age and performance capabilities make a WWE in-ring comeback unlikely. Still, the possibility of Jericho contributing to WWE in a non-wrestling capacity remains open.
Wrestling Landscape Changes Influence Jericho’s Career Choices
The wrestling industry increasingly favors younger talent with fresh appeal, making it harder for veteran performers to secure major wrestling roles. Jericho’s decision to stay with AEW reflects this reality, where his talents are appreciated on multiple levels, including mentoring younger wrestlers and shaping the company’s creative direction. His experience as a former ROH Champion and prominent figure in wrestling history ensures he remains valuable, even if not the main wrestling star.
What This Means for the Future of Chris Jericho
Chris Jericho’s ongoing commitment to AEW signals a shift from viewing him solely as a wrestler to recognizing his broader contributions to the sport’s evolution behind the scenes. His contract through the end of 2025 shields AEW from losing a seasoned veteran who continues to influence the company’s trajectory. For WWE, Jericho’s return would most likely be in a managerial or on-screen personality role rather than consistent in-ring performances.
As Jericho ages, the balance between his legacy and physical capabilities will shape his next chapters. Fans should expect him to remain a key figure in AEW’s storylines and development efforts for the foreseeable future rather than anticipating a WWE comeback as an active competitor anytime soon.
