Chris Jericho WWE authority role discussions have intensified as his contract with AEW concludes on December 31. With speculation rising about a return to WWE, Jericho could soon take on a non-wrestling leadership position for the company, as insiders and wrestling figures analyze his potential next move.
Speculation Grows About Jericho’s Potential Comeback
The end of 2025 has seen increasing chatter regarding Chris Jericho’s next steps following the conclusion of his AEW tenure. His last AEW appearance dates back to April, during which he participated in both matches and commentary. Reports indicate that WWE might welcome him back, possibly debuting him at the upcoming RAW on Netflix anniversary event scheduled for January 5. While a wrestling return is possible, much of the discussion has pivoted towards his suitability for roles beyond competing in the ring.
Calls to See Jericho Succeed Adam Pearce as RAW General Manager
Numerous voices in wrestling media, including Jonathan Coachman, have suggested that the WWE should prioritize utilizing Jericho’s wide-ranging skills in a broader authority role, particularly on Monday Night RAW. Coachman floated the idea publicly, questioning whether Adam Pearce should remain in his general manager position or make way for Jericho. Coachman posted:
“No one is talking about what role he would play. We haven’t see him wrestle in months. He’s one of my favorites all time but if I am using him the best way I get rid of (Pearce) and (put) Jericho in the authority role which he would absolutely crush.”
– Jonathan Coachman, Former WWE Commentator
Jonathan Coachman also pointed to Jericho’s strengths outside of wrestling itself:
“The backstage and in-ring promos would be awesome. He doesn’t need to be a top in-ring talent because he would need to wrestle at least 3-4 times a month, and not sure if he wants to or can perform high-level 30-minute matches that much.”
– Jonathan Coachman, Former WWE Commentator
Despite these suggestions, many believe that Adam Pearce, as one of WWE’s most effective general managers, is unlikely to be replaced imminently. Pearce has consistently delivered strong performances in his administrative role, making any handover far from certain. Still, the possibility of Jericho’s participation in WWE management offers intriguing new directions, supported by his established command over microphone segments and storytelling.
Potential for Jericho in WWE Commentary and Broadcasting
Another scenario under consideration is Jericho’s integration into WWE commentary. He previously expressed interest in contributing to announcing teams post-retirement, and with WWE mixing up their broadcaster lineups due to Joe Tessitore’s other sports commitments, Jericho may be a strong fit. Analysts suggest he would be a valuable addition alongside Michael Cole and Corey Graves on RAW, potentially bringing a dynamic, seasoned perspective to the program’s presentation in 2025.
Jericho as NXT General Manager: A Route for the Future
Some wrestling commentators have advocated for Chris Jericho taking on the NXT General Manager position to draw greater viewership to WWE’s developmental brand. Of all current authority figures, NXT’s Ava is considered the least seasoned, particularly in conveying authority during high-stakes storylines. While Ava has made progress in her role since being named GM in January 2024, suggestions persist that Jericho’s experience could elevate the show further.
It has been proposed that Ava could remain involved, possibly stepping into more of a managerial or supporting post, such as becoming Jericho’s right-hand figure. Jericho himself has previously mentioned considering a backstage consultative position once his wrestling career concludes, a move that would allow him to mentor up-and-coming talent and stay engaged with the evolving next generation in WWE.
Envisioning Jericho in NXT invites speculation about dynamic interactions with emerging stars, such as the North American Champion Ethan Page. Featuring Jericho in these on-air disputes with Adam Pearce and SmackDown’s Nick Aldis over talent during crossover events like the WWE Draft could provide fresh creative angles, potentially reviving competitive tension between the brands that some feel has diminished under Triple H’s current leadership.
What Jericho’s Next Step Means for WWE’s Future
As WWE evaluates its options following Chris Jericho’s AEW contract culmination, the company faces key decisions about his ideal contribution: should he headline in-ring storylines, or take on a prominent Chris Jericho WWE authority role as general manager or commentator? With voices like Jonathan Coachman backing his elevation to management, and Jericho’s own openness to backstage or broadcast work, his WWE return could signal a strategic shift.
Whatever role he accepts, Jericho’s presence will likely influence backstage dynamics, character development, and potentially the onscreen authority landscape featuring figures such as Adam Pearce, Ava, and Nick Aldis. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as WWE’s plans for Jericho become clearer, with the potential to redefine both RAW and NXT’s presentation and storytelling in the coming year.
