Speculation is building around the Chris Jericho WWE return rumors, as fans anticipate when and where the wrestling icon might appear next. After Adam Pearce’s recent social media hint and Jericho’s contract with AEW expiring on December 31, audiences eagerly await his next move on WWE programming.
Fan Hopes Rise as Jericho’s WWE Status Changes
Interest in Chris Jericho’s WWE return soared following a tease from Adam Pearce during his regular preview for the Monday Night Show set for January 5. Many fans believe this could mark the return of the former World Heavyweight Champion to WWE RAW, sparking widespread discussion online. With Jericho officially a free agent after his AEW contract ended at the close of December, he is now available to appear in any wrestling promotion, including WWE.
Though excitement is high for a potential appearance, Jericho’s return is expected to be brief at first. The primary reason stems from commitments with his band Fozzy, which will tour the UK from February 6 through February 21. This tour makes it unlikely that he will be present on WWE television during those dates, limiting his ability to participate in ongoing storylines into February.
Possible Royal Rumble Appearance and Future Plans
Given this scheduling conflict, there is speculation that WWE might plan Jericho’s significant return for the annual Royal Rumble event at the end of January. This timing would accommodate his outside commitments, allowing for a short-term appearance followed by a possible full-time comeback once the Fozzy tour concludes, perhaps leading into major events such as WrestleMania 42.
The sequence of Jericho’s returns, both as a surprise participant and as a regular competitor, could generate notable attention and ticket sales, drawing on his reputation and popularity among both long-time and newer WWE fans.
Adam Pearce’s Social Media Hint Fuels Speculation
WWE RAW General Manager Adam Pearce has gained recognition for his weekly show previews on social media. Before the January 5 Monday Night Show, Pearce energized fans by referencing “Break down the walls,” a phrase that loyal WWE viewers recognize from Chris Jericho’s previous theme entrance. This subtle nod led to widespread predictions that Jericho would be reappearing imminently.
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer commented that this reference was intended to heighten anticipation for the episode and potentially drive more ticket sales for WWE. While Meltzer noted that he had not received confirmation of an appearance by Jericho on January 5, he suggested that the wrestling legend could return by the end of the month. Meltzer explained that if WWE delays Jericho’s comeback, the Royal Rumble would be the most likely platform for a significant return.
What Lies Ahead for Chris Jericho and WWE?
With Chris Jericho now free to negotiate and make appearances as he chooses, and with Adam Pearce’s hints and Dave Meltzer’s analysis stoking the conversation, the wrestling world is watching closely. Whether Jericho makes a quick return on January 5, a dramatic entrance at the Royal Rumble, or saves his reappearance for the post-tour build-up to WrestleMania, his next steps are sure to create significant buzz across WWE programming and beyond.
