Chris Jericho, the celebrated AEW star, has sparked speculation about a potential appearance at the 2026 Royal Rumble. His contract with the Jacksonville-based promotion is set to expire in 2026, and despite rumors claiming he is no longer affiliated with AEW, Jericho remains listed on the official roster. Notably, he has not appeared on AEW television since April 2025, fueling widespread uncertainty about his future.
Meanwhile, discussions among wrestling veterans suggest that Jericho could be considering one last run with WWE. Throughout the past year, Jericho has focused on his music career, touring steadily with his band Fozzy, showing no immediate signs of slowing down.
Recent Engagements and Social Media Corrections by Jericho
Jericho has been scheduled to perform at a significant show on February 19, though he inadvertently announced the date as February 18 before correcting the error via an Instagram story. This minor confusion has added to the growing anticipation surrounding his next move, especially given the mystery that surrounds his current status with AEW and options for 2026.
AEW President Tony Khan’s Reflections on Jericho’s Role
Tony Khan, president of AEW, has remained reserved about Jericho’s current status but recently expressed deep appreciation for the wrestler’s contributions since AEW’s inception. Speaking on the program Unlikely, Khan praised Jericho’s foundational role in the promotion’s growth and success.
“Well, first of all, I’m really grateful whenever I talk about people who have been here from the very beginning and think about that first show in Las Vegas. None of this would be possible without Chris Jericho, who’s been instrumental in AEW from the start. I love Chris very much, and I would say that Chris is always a big part of AEW. This promotion is here to stay, and Chris Jericho is a huge part of our history. We’re really proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish, and Chris is an instrumental part of that,” Tony Khan, AEW President.
Potential Impact of Jericho’s Royal Rumble Appearance
The possibility of Jericho returning at the 2026 Royal Rumble has generated intense debate among fans and insiders alike. Given Jericho’s decades-long influence as a performer and his status as a former AEW World Champion, such a comeback could dramatically alter the dynamics of WWE events and storylines. Whether his reappearance signals a final farewell tour or a new chapter, it is expected to be a defining moment for both Jericho and professional wrestling in 2026.
