Chris Jericho, a prominent AEW star, surprised and upset many fans by not appearing at this year’s WWE Royal Rumble event. For months, speculation suggested he would join WWE after his contract, reportedly expiring in December 2025, ended. Yet, Jericho remains listed on WWE’s official roster, indicating he is still under contract. This ongoing situation has intensified discussions about his future and potential WWE Hall of Fame induction.
Ongoing Rumors About Jericho’s WWE Return and Retirement Plans
Earlier reports indicated that Jericho intended to return to WWE motivated by two key reasons: to conduct a retirement tour and to secure a place in the WWE Hall of Fame. Fans have questioned whether AEW President Tony Khan extended Jericho’s contract, which could be delaying his WWE comeback. Jericho’s commitment to AEW and his continued presence there have fueled further speculation about his career decisions.
Insights From Industry Veterans on Jericho’s Prospects
Disco Inferno, a wrestling veteran speaking on the Keepin’ It 100 OFFICIAL podcast, suggested that Jericho might remain with AEW and still have a guaranteed spot waiting in WWE’s Hall of Fame if he chooses not to return as an active wrestler.
“I’m assuming he’s got a spot waiting for him at the WWE Hall of Fame. So, I don’t know. He may like the schedule at AEW,” Disco Inferno, veteran
Another experienced voice, Dutch Mantell, shared his opinion on Story Time, arguing that at 55 years old, Jericho’s role in WWE should shift away from in-ring competition toward a backstage creative position. However, Mantell noted Jericho might be reluctant to accept such a change.
“But at 55, and he’s not going back till next year, I would say there is a possibility that he doesn’t even go now, as a talent, let me say that. He may not go as a talent; he could go as a part of the creative team, but I don’t think he wants to do that,” Dutch Mantell, veteran
Current Status and Future Expectations for Jericho’s Career
Despite being 55, Jericho continues to compete with younger wrestlers, maintaining a high profile in AEW. The uncertainty over his WWE status, combined with contract details and personal ambitions, makes his next move difficult to predict. Fans remain eager to see if Jericho will embark on a retirement tour, secure his legacy in WWE’s Hall of Fame, or extend his time in AEW.
This situation underscores tensions within the wrestling industry regarding veteran talent management, contract negotiations, and career transitions. Jericho’s decisions may shape both his legacy and the relationships between AEW and WWE in the near future.
