Chris Jericho’s absence from the 2026 Royal Rumble did not quell speculation about his future in professional wrestling, stirring debate over a potential WWE return. In a recent February 8 interview on Adam’s Apple, fellow wrestler Swerve Strickland addressed Jericho’s uncertain path, affirming his support for Jericho regardless of the decision he makes. The discussions around Jericho’s status increasingly involve his contractual ties and recent activities beyond the ring, underlining a complex situation regarding his Chris Jericho AEW future.
Swerve Strickland Voices Support Amid Transfer Rumors
During the interview, Strickland confirmed that he reached out directly to Jericho, expressing encouragement no matter where Jericho’s career leads. This statement reflects the respect and uncertainty surrounding Jericho’s ongoing wrestling affiliation.
“I actually texted Chris. I congratulated him on whatever his decision is going to be. Whatever his decision is going to be, I’m supporting him no matter what.” – Swerve Strickland
Jericho’s No-Show at Royal Rumble Sparks Speculation
In the lead-up to the Royal Rumble event held in Riyadh, fans and analysts alike speculated heavily about Jericho’s possible WWE return, with some betting markets naming him as a top contender for the final entry spot at #30. However, Jericho did not appear when the event unfolded, causing confusion and further discussion regarding his professional status.
Contractual Status Confirms Jericho Remains With AEW
Clarification arrived shortly after the Royal Rumble through a report on Fightful’s post-Rumble show on February 1, where Sean Ross Sapp addressed the rumors. Sapp confirmed that Jericho remains an AEW contract wrestler and had not become a free agent as previously thought. This revelation corrected earlier inaccurate reports that suggested his AEW contract expired at the end of 2025.
“As of today, Chris Jericho is still listed on AEW’s roster page, which is a great indication of whether somebody is still with the company. And Chris Jericho has not left the company as of yet.” – Sean Ross Sapp
Sapp further elaborated on the confusion surrounding Jericho’s contract, noting limited backstage discussion and uncertainty about whether there was a contract freeze or extension, but affirming his current affiliation with AEW remains intact.
“Whether it’s because his deal got frozen or they extended it, that I don’t know. But when I saw people outright saying, ‘Oh, his deal is officially up’—no. It was not officially up. It was presumably up, and that was incorrect. He hasn’t been discussed a lot backstage in AEW. So it’s pretty interesting. His deal isn’t up. Jericho is still under contract to AEW at this stage.” – Sean Ross Sapp
Jericho Focuses on Projects Outside the Wrestling Ring
While dealings with AEW remain unclear, Jericho has been dedicating time to his ventures beyond wrestling, including a key role in the forthcoming Apple TV+ series Margo’s Got Money Troubles, scheduled to premiere on April 15. Concurrently, he is involved with Fozzy’s Eyes On You tour, which began this month, showcasing his continuous engagement with entertainment outside professional wrestling.
Jericho’s Position Remains Firm Within AEW Community
Despite hopes among some fans for a dramatic WWE comeback, the current situation indicates that Jericho’s allegiance to AEW remains unchanged. His AEW colleagues, including Strickland, continue to watch and support his journey. This allegiance underscores the significance of Jericho’s sustained role in AEW, emphasizing ongoing loyalty within the organization despite external rumors.
