Chris Jericho‘s ongoing absence from All Elite Wrestling (AEW) programming has sparked intense speculation about his future, with discussions focusing on a potential return to the promotion as a key figure in the Don Callis family leader faction. The situation remains uncertain as Jericho’s contract is due to expire this year, leaving fans and insiders debating whether he will rejoin AEW or pursue other opportunities.
The Ayatollah of Rock ‘N’ Rolla has been off AEW television for several months, fueling rumors about a possible move back to WWE. Despite this, Jericho has made it clear that he is still connected to AEW for now. If AEW president Tony Khan manages to re-sign Jericho, it could mark a major turning point for both the star and the company’s evolving storylines. Recently, Don Callis expanded his faction by adding Andrade El Idolo and El Clon during the sixth anniversary of AEW Dynamite, demonstrating his ability to reshape his group’s influence.
There is talk that Callis could surprise the wrestling world by unveiling Jericho as a co-leader of The Don Callis Family, sharing the spotlight in leading the faction. Jericho, the inaugural AEW Undisputed Champion, remains one of the most influential figures in AEW history, and his return would likely be met with great enthusiasm. His previous collaborations with Callis provide a strong foundation for the faction’s potential dominance in AEW’s competitive environment.
Speculation on Jericho’s Return and WWE Retirement Match for John Cena
With Jericho’s AEW contract set to expire in December, veteran wrestling insider Vince Russo has suggested that Jericho might make a WWE comeback around that time. Russo speculates that Jericho could be positioned as John Cena’s final opponent, tying into Cena’s announced retirement match scheduled for December 13. This scenario, if realized, would create a monumental event and serve as a significant send-off for Cena while reintegrating Jericho into WWE’s roster.
“You may think this is crazy. Is Jericho’s contract up by December? Because they would put Jericho in that spot before they put one of their own players in that spot. So, I swear, is it a pop card? Who is going to be available at that time?”
– Vince Russo, Wrestling Veteran
Such a match would not only generate considerable excitement but also establish a narrative for Jericho’s next phase in WWE, should he choose to leave AEW. The timing and high-profile nature of this potential match underscore the ongoing uncertainty surrounding his wrestling future.
Don Callis Family’s Rising Influence in AEW
Don Callis’s faction has steadily gained prominence on AEW programming, especially after the introduction of notable additions like Andrade El Idolo and El Clon. The possible inclusion of Chris Jericho as a prominent leader alongside Callis would further strengthen the group’s foothold within AEW. As Jericho’s presence has been pivotal in shaping AEW’s early years, his alignment with Callis’s stable suggests a strategic move to boost the faction’s power and storytelling impact moving forward.
If Jericho returns to AEW under Callis’s leadership, it would mark a major development with wide-reaching effects on AEW’s competitive dynamics. Callis’s past success in forming compelling factions combined with Jericho’s star power could redefine the faction rivalry landscape on AEW Dynamite and beyond.
What the Future Holds for Chris Jericho and AEW
As 2024 progresses, the wrestling world watches closely for news on Chris Jericho’s contract and ultimate destination. Whether he becomes a central figure in the Don Callis family leadership or steps into WWE for a farewell bout with John Cena, Jericho’s next moves will be pivotal for fans and the industry alike. AEW’s ability to retain Jericho could signify stability and growth for the promotion, while a WWE return might open fresh narrative possibilities. Either way, Jericho’s status remains one of the most compelling storylines in professional wrestling today.
Is Don Callis the change Chris Jericho needs?
Watch #AEWDynamite on TBS!@IAmJericho | @TheDonCallis pic.twitter.com/Srf7Nu8CgR
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) July 6, 2023
