Chris Jericho AEW contract expiration has made headlines, as the six-time WWE World Champion officially became a free agent after his contract with All Elite Wrestling ended on December 31, 2025. At the same time, EC3, another wrestler with deep WWE ties, has announced his exit from the National Wrestling Alliance, making both former champions available to pursue new opportunities in professional wrestling.
Jericho’s Absence and Future Prospects
Chris Jericho was notably absent from AEW broadcasts during the final months of his contract, prompting widespread speculation among fans and industry insiders about his next move. Now, with his contract concluded, many expect that Jericho will soon return to WWE, with conversations reportedly ongoing and a potential agreement anticipated in the coming weeks. His departure comes after a storied run not only in WWE but also in AEW, where he held championship gold and played a key role in the company’s growth.
Jericho’s free agency status also opens up the possibility for appearances in other wrestling promotions across the world, further fueling curiosity about his next chapter. His decision will likely impact ongoing storylines and shake up the scene in WWE or any promotion he joins.
EC3 Departs National Wrestling Alliance
EC3, who previously performed under the name Derrick Bateman, officially announced his exit from the National Wrestling Alliance on January 1, 2026. The wrestler has had two tenures in WWE, with his most recent ending in 2020 before he transitioned to NWA in 2022. During his time with the NWA, EC3 captured the NWA World Heavyweight Championship and held it for over a year, as well as winning the NWA National Championship. His successful run further cemented his reputation as a top performer.
With his NWA contract now expired, EC3 joins Jericho in free agency. Both are weighing their next steps, with speculation rising about the potential for high-profile returns to WWE if negotiations move forward and interests align for both parties.
“pic.twitter.com/tnSb6fNMep— ecIII (@therealec3) January 1, 2026”
— ecIII (@therealec3) January 1, 2026
How These Moves Affect the Wrestling Landscape
The simultaneous free agency of Chris Jericho and EC3 signals a period of change in the wrestling world, as both athletes are well-known for their impactful storylines and championship runs in major promotions. Their decisions over where to sign next could create ripple effects, influencing current story arcs and the direction of organizations like WWE and potentially other promotions on the rise.
Fans and industry watchers will be paying close attention to any official announcements or hints regarding Jericho’s and EC3’s next moves, as their choices will shape rosters and rivalries in 2026 and beyond. With both holding championship pedigree and large fan bases, their potential returns to WWE or moves elsewhere remain key developments to observe in the coming weeks.
— ecIII (@therealec3) January 1, 2026
