Chris Jericho WWE return rumors are circulating widely, sparking intense debate among fans since his absence from television in April 2025. Despite heightened anticipation, veteran voice Jim Ross has cast doubt on the likelihood of Jericho making a comeback to WWE soon.
Jim Ross, who recently reappeared on AEW programming, addressed the buzz about Jericho’s potential exit from All Elite Wrestling after several stories predicted a January 5, 2026, RAW return. Reports suggested that Jericho’s contract with AEW ended on December 31, but he did not show up as speculated, leaving questions lingering about his true intentions.
According to updates within AEW, there has been no indication or official announcement that Chris Jericho—also known as The Lionheart—plans to leave the organization. On his recent podcast episode, Grillin’ with JR, Jim Ross described Jericho as being content and influential within AEW, explaining his view that Jericho’s commitment to the promotion remains strong, while also admitting the possibility of a future switch to WWE—but not to any other major wrestling organization.
“I think it’s WWE or nothing for [Chris] Jericho. He’s happy. He’s got a lot of influence in AEW, basically, to simplify, he books his own angles. He works with the creative guys, and they communicate well. Chris [Jericho] doesn’t come empty-handed; he always got a plan. But I think his goal, if it’s to leave AEW, he’s got a great deal. I’m under the impression, he’s got a great deal, then I think it’s WWE or stay where he is. I don’t think the TNA thing plays into it but I could be wrong. Money changes a lot of opinion, sentiment. I hope he doesn’t leave.”
– H/T WrestlingNews.co
Leadership Responses Ignite Further Debate Among Wrestling Analysts
Questions regarding Jericho’s future have prompted industry insiders to scrutinize public comments from AEW leadership. When asked about Jericho’s position in AEW, company president Tony Khan reportedly avoided providing a specific answer, which led to additional controversy and critical reactions within the community.
Wrestling personality Vince Russo openly expressed his frustration with Khan’s evasiveness during interviews, voicing concern that journalists rarely receive straightforward updates about important backstage topics like Jericho’s contract or plans.
“Tony Khan man, bro, he just has a way of not answering questions. I’ve seen so many Tony Khan interviews, man, and if I’m a podcaster, I’m asking myself, ‘Why am I gonna interview this guy?’ because we know two things are going to happen. Number one, he’s not gonna answer any real question and number two, all he’s gonna do is put the show over to nauseum.”
– Vince Russo
As the speculation about where Y2J will land next continues, no visible movements have occurred to confirm his departure from or return to any organization. With Jim Ross and Vince Russo both acknowledging how closely the wrestling landscape is being watched, fans remain invested in every update about Jericho’s future, whether in AEW or in the WWE universe.
How Chris Jericho’s next decision unfolds will have implications for all parties involved—from fans to promoters—since his star power remains significant in both AEW and WWE. For now, the Chris Jericho WWE return rumors highlight the complex and unsettled nature of professional wrestling’s shifting alliances and the tight-lipped responses from those in power.
