Chris Jericho recently made a high-profile appearance that has sparked curiosity about his Chris Jericho wrestling future. Although he has not competed in the ring since April of last year at AEW Dynasty, he took part in the Big Texas Terror event last weekend in San Antonio, Texas, connecting with fans from each stage of his career. His statement following the event reflects his ongoing engagement with the wrestling community despite the ambiguity surrounding his next steps.
Since stepping away from in-ring competition, Jericho has focused on activities outside wrestling, such as touring with his band and attending various conventions. Despite the extended absence, there has been no clear information regarding when or if he will make a full return to professional wrestling.
Jericho’s Recent Fan Interactions Highlight Influence Across Wrestling and Entertainment
At Big Texas Terror, Jericho shared moments via social media that captured his enthusiasm in meeting fans from different chapters of his career, including those who appreciate his tenure in WWE, AEW, and his roles in movies like Terrifier. His posts demonstrated a genuine excitement for interacting with fans involved in horror cosplay and others from the “Jericho family.”
“Incredible weekend meeting fans from all #Jericho eras at @bigtexasterror 🧟♂️🔥 from the Jericho family to all of the horror cosplay, I had a blast hanging with all of you in Texas! #bigtexasterror #horror #bigtexasterror2026” Jericho posted.
Contract Status with AEW Revealed Amid Hiatus
Contrary to earlier beliefs that Jericho’s AEW contract under the alias The Nueve would end in 2025, new reports clarify that AEW froze his contract at the start of his hiatus, keeping him officially signed with the company. Wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer explained on Wrestling Observer Radio that pausing or freezing contracts is a common practice when performers are inactive for prolonged periods, allowing promotions to extend the contract duration accordingly.
“The whole idea of freezing a contract, if you’re out for a period of time, they can add that time back on. That’s standard in wrestling contracts,” Meltzer said.
With Jericho’s contract status confirmed but no formal updates on his wrestling plans, the future remains uncertain. Whether this arrangement signals an upcoming comeback or serves to postpone his departure is yet to be determined.
Implications for Jericho’s Career and AEW’s Future Plans
The uncertainty surrounding Jericho’s wrestling future carries significant weight for fans and the AEW organization alike. As a multi-time world champion with deep ties to both AEW and WWE, his choices will likely impact storylines and talent dynamics in the wrestling world. His recent public appearances and ongoing contract suggest that AEW values his presence, but the tension around his eventual ring return or exit continues to build anticipation.
Industry watchers will be closely monitoring Jericho’s next moves, as any announcement could influence AEW’s roster composition and event planning. Meanwhile, Jericho’s engagement with his wide-ranging fanbase, both within wrestling and in entertainment outside the ring, remains strong and may hint at the diverse directions his career could take.
