Chris Jericho AEW retirement has been the focus of intense discussion as the veteran wrestling icon has been absent from All Elite Wrestling programming since April last year. Despite rumors linking him back to WWE for a farewell tour, Jericho remains officially listed on AEW’s roster, raising questions about whether he will finish his career with the Tony Khan-led promotion or bow out elsewhere.
Jericho’s contract reportedly has been frozen during his extended absence, and with no appearances at recent WWE events such as the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber, speculation suggests he could continue wrestling exclusively within AEW or retire from the sport there. Considering his legacy and impact on AEW, here are three logical contenders who could serve as his final in-ring opponents should Jericho decide to retire in AEW.
Kenny Omega: The Rival and Ally from AEW’s Inception
Chris Jericho and Kenny Omega have a long, storied history dating back to 2017 when Jericho challenged Omega for the IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship at Wrestle Kingdom 12 in Tokyo Dome. Though Omega retained the title, their bout was pivotal in building momentum that eventually helped form AEW. Their paths crossed again after Jericho joined AEW in 2019, leading to a high-profile rematch at AEW’s first pay-per-view, Double or Nothing, where Jericho defeated Omega.
Their rivalry escalated into faction warfare between Omega’s Elite and Jericho’s Inner Circle, yet over time the two reconciled and even joined forces briefly as The Golden Jets tag team. Their last encounter took place at Full Gear 2023. If Jericho plans to retire within AEW, a renewed clash with Kenny Omega would be fitting. The dynamic between “The God of Professional Wrestling” and “The Wizard” rekindling their competitive spirit for a final match presents a compelling narrative that honors both stars’ contributions.
Maxwell Jacob Friedman: The Current AEW World Champion at the Center of Jericho’s Rivalries
Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF), the reigning AEW World Champion, also stands as a strong candidate for Jericho’s last opponent. Their relationship began in late 2020 when MJF defeated Jericho at Full Gear to earn a spot in Jericho’s Inner Circle faction. However, MJF’s alliance soon fractured as he betrayed the group and launched The Pinnacle faction against them, igniting a bitter feud.
Jericho persevered through a series of challenging matches against notable wrestlers like Shawn Spears, Nick Gage, Juventud Guerrera, and Wardlow to secure a title match against MJF, which he lost. Following that, Jericho demanded a rematch with a dramatic stake: should he lose again, he would retire. In a pivotal moment at All Out 2021, Jericho triumphed, safeguarding his career. Since then, they have not faced off directly.
MJF is scheduled to defend his AEW World Title against Hangman Adam Page at Revolution 2026. If MJF retains, a fresh rivalry with Jericho could rekindle, providing Jericho a chance to chase another championship reign before potentially retiring. Their final bout might even include a stipulation tied to Jericho’s in-ring retirement, adding tension and significance to the contest.
Hangman Adam Page: The AEW Trios Champion and a Symbolic Rival
Hangman Adam Page, the current AEW World Trios Champion and a key figure in the promotion, has undergone a dramatic character evolution in 2024. Starting as a brooding heel fueled by resentment against Swerve Strickland, Page rampaged through allies and enemies alike, including past friends like Evil Uno and veterans such as Jeff Jarrett and Christopher Daniels. His vendetta culminated in ending Jay White’s active career, prompting Page to reconsider his violent path and return to a more heroic role.
Page is set to challenge MJF for the World Title at Revolution 2026, with a high-stakes condition that if he loses, he will never challenge for the belt again. Given MJF’s recent title reign began only months ago, it is probable MJF will retain, pushing Page to seek other outlets for his frustration and ambition. This scenario could bring him into conflict with Jericho, who may return to challenge Page over the title scene or personal pride.
If Jericho and Page were to feud, it could culminate in Jericho’s final match where he would pass the torch by losing to Hangman. This would create a full-circle moment, as Jericho became AEW’s inaugural AEW World Champion by defeating Page at All Out 2019, enhancing the narrative weight of their final encounter.
Each potential opponent represents a significant chapter in Chris Jericho’s AEW journey — Kenny Omega as a foundational rival turned friend; Maxwell Jacob Friedman as a ruthless younger champion; and Hangman Adam Page as a symbolic successor. Any of these matchups could serve as an appropriate, dramatic farewell for Jericho, cementing his legacy while propelling AEW’s future storylines.
