Chris Jericho, a standout talent in AEW, has remained a hot topic in wrestling circles despite not competing in the ring for nearly a year. Rumors about a Chris Jericho WWE return have persisted, especially as the wrestling calendar progresses toward the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania season, though no surprise appearances have occurred.
After stepping away from AEW in April 2025, reports indicated that Jericho’s contract was frozen. Since then, he has concentrated on his musical career with his band Fozzy, keeping busy away from wrestling. His absence has only heightened anticipation and debate among fans regarding when and where he might make his next wrestling appearance.
Rekindling a Legendary WWE Moment
Jericho’s ability to reinvent himself has been key to his enduring appeal, but few of his personas captured the audience like the “List of Jericho” introduced in 2016. This simple prop—a clipboard featuring a list—became an iconic and comedic element on WWE programming, fondly remembered by longtime fans.
Recently, at the Big Texas Terror signing event, this part of Jericho’s legacy resurfaced unexpectedly. A fan brought a “List of Jericho” for Jericho to autograph, and he engaged with it playfully. The brief incident circulated widely online, reminding viewers of his knack for reviving past successful gimmicks. Whether this was mere fan interaction or a deliberate hint remains uncertain.
Challenges Ahead for Jericho’s Comeback
Jericho has now been inactive in wrestling for over 11 months, and at 55 years old, the passage of time is a critical factor in maintaining his connection with the audience. Veteran wrestling figure Dutch Mantell, speaking on Story Time, noted that lengthy breaks can erode fan interest and that multiple unsuccessful returns may further dampen momentum. He cautioned that delays in reentering the ring carry significant risks for Jericho’s ongoing relevance with wrestling fans.
