As Chris Jericho’s contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) approaches its expiration later this year, whispers about a potential return to WWE are increasing among fans and insiders. Jericho, who has been with AEW since its inception in 2019 and was the company’s inaugural World Champion, has been noticeably absent from recent programming, stirring anticipation around his next career move. Wrestling observer Dave Meltzer recently confirmed that Jericho’s deal is set to end in late 2025, intensifying the speculation surrounding his future.
“His contract is up at the end of the year, or late in the year, and there’s certainly been lots and lots of talk about WWE. I know from a WWE standpoint that there is [a] lot of talk there about Jericho. People speculating Royal Rumble,” said Meltzer.
Mercedes Mone Addresses Booking Criticism Amid AEW Success
Mercedes Mone, a dominant wrestler in AEW, confronted criticism over her booking and long championship reign in a candid statement on X/Twitter. Her first singles loss in AEW came recently at the All In: Texas event when Toni Storm defended the Women’s World Championship. Despite ongoing fan debates about her position, Mone conveyed confidence and disregard for detractors.
“I am fully aware of what y’all say about me, number one, and I don’t give a f**k,” said Mone.
Sting’s Final Appearances and AEW Legacy
Wrestling icon Sting, age 65, acknowledged his planned retirement from AEW by the end of 2025 as he shared a schedule of upcoming appearances through December of that year. After retiring from active competition at Revolution 2024, where he and Darby Allin defended the AEW World Tag Team Championship, Sting returned for a moment at All In: London 2024. Fans should anticipate that his upcoming appearances might be among the last times to see the legendary figure in his signature face paint.
Former WWE Talent Jeff Jarrett Critiques R-Truth’s Character Shift
Jeff Jarrett has openly criticized WWE’s recent booking decisions regarding R-Truth. After re-signing with WWE earlier this year, R-Truth attempted a more serious persona under his real name, Ron Killings, including altering his appearance by cutting his dreadlocks. However, the company quickly reverted him to his lighthearted character following John Cena’s shift to a babyface role. Jarrett expressed that this change devalued the longstanding character and showed a lack of creative investment from WWE.
“‘Okay, hey, we’re going to bring this guy back. Sign him to a new deal. And the first night out, what are we doing to do? We’re going to change his character.’ It devalues [him]…the 24/7, 365 Ron character has been on WWE TV for years, [and] they killed that off in one night. And it’s pretty obvious the powers that be lost interest in booking that one,” said Jarrett.
Danhausen’s Contract Extension and AEW Appearances
Reports indicate that Danhausen sought to leave AEW but was denied by Tony Khan, with his contract extended due to an injury-related clause. The wrestler has been largely absent from AEW TV since Worlds End 2023, only briefly appearing during ROH Final Battle in December before being written off again. Despite past injury setbacks, Danhausen has wrestled independently outside AEW. According to Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful, Danhausen had expressed a desire to move on if AEW had no creative plans for him, but Khan appears determined to retain him.
Implications of Jericho’s Potential WWE Return
The possible departure of Chris Jericho from AEW would mark a significant moment for the wrestling world, considering his prominent role in shaping AEW since its beginnings. Should Jericho rejoin WWE, possibly at an event like the Royal Rumble, it could signal a major storyline shift and electrify the fanbase. Yet, until official announcements emerge, Jericho’s next steps remain uncertain, keeping fans and analysts on edge about the veteran’s wrestling future.
