Chris Jericho’s involvement in WWE remains uncertain as fans and insiders speculate about his presence at the 2026 Royal Rumble. According to Dave Meltzer from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, there is a possibility that Jericho could participate in the 30-Man Royal Rumble match, hinting at a potential surprise comeback. Although Jericho has publicly minimized the chances of appearing at the event, discussions reportedly continue behind the scenes within WWE about his return in early 2026.
Jericho’s Current Status with AEW and WWE
Jericho, who currently holds a position as leader of The Learning Tree faction in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), last appeared on AEW programming in April 2025. Despite this, he is still officially listed on AEW’s roster, adding complexity to any potential WWE return. This ongoing uncertainty makes Jericho one of the most anticipated figures leading into WWE’s 2026 Royal Rumble pay-per-view, scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Additional WWE Developments Ahead of the Royal Rumble
Other prominent rumors around the 2026 event include Bianca Belair reportedly preparing for a comeback, while WWE insiders remain divided over whether AJ Styles will retire in 2026. Additionally, WWE has recently signed Saudi wrestler Fahd Tuwaiq, strengthening its roster ahead of the Royal Rumble in Riyadh. These developments contribute to a sense of cautious anticipation among wrestling fans and industry observers.
The Significance and Next Steps
The possibility of Jericho returning to WWE at the Royal Rumble would mark a major moment for the company, especially considering his influential career across multiple wrestling promotions. With Meltzer’s report bringing Jericho’s status to the forefront, WWE fans should remain attentive to announcements as the Saudi Arabia event approaches. Jericho’s return could greatly affect WWE’s storylines and viewership, underscoring the ongoing shifts in professional wrestling’s competitive landscape.
