Fans are abuzz with Chris Jericho WWE return rumors after the wrestling icon became a free agent, fueling speculation about a surprise appearance at one of WWE’s biggest upcoming events. With talk swirling around his potential comeback at the Royal Rumble in Riyadh or even WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, excitement and tension are mounting across the wrestling world.
Jericho’s Contract Status Draws Attention
Chris Jericho, a name synonymous with wrestling versatility and charisma, concluded his AEW contract in December 2025. This development reportedly left him open to offers and possibilities, making his future moves the subject of constant debate among wrestling fans and insiders. Noted analyst Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer commented on Jericho’s current status, highlighting ongoing WWE planning but clarifying that nothing official has been signed.
“I’ve heard plans from WWE for him, but not that he was signed. That goes back months. He could be on Raw next Monday legally. There have been rumors of that. Knowing him, I think that he’d want to debut when people don’t expect it.”
— Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observer
Meltzer further stirred the rumor mill by suggesting Jericho could show up on the January 5 episode of RAW, which notably marks the show’s first anniversary on Netflix. The potential for a shock appearance, given Jericho’s penchant for unpredictable returns, has led many to anticipate significant moves from WWE in the near future.
Speculation Grows Around Major WWE Events
While one camp anticipates a RAW comeback, others believe a bigger stage is in the works. On the latest episode of the Coach and Bro Show, Jonathan Coachman shared his feelings about Jericho’s impending return to WWE. Coachman, who once worked ringside and behind the scenes, expects the highly anticipated return to occur on a larger scale at the Royal Rumble event in Riyadh, rather than on the anniversary RAW broadcast.
“My prediction, and we’re going to put a pin in this and run this back, that Jericho does not show up Monday on Netflix. He will show up at the Royal Rumble in a whole completely new look, all of the weight loss.”
— Jonathan Coachman, Coach and Bro Show
Coachman continued, predicting that the 55-year-old Chris Jericho will be involved in multiple headline events. He suggested that after the Royal Rumble, WWE will book him for creative roles at Elimination Chamber, followed by a prominent part at WrestleMania, but with a strategy to keep his appearances restricted to the major shows.
“I believe they’re going to do something creative with him, and then he’ll be at the Elimination Chamber and then have a major role leading into WrestleMania, but it’s going to be minimal appearances. Uh, but at all of the big events. (From 15:26)”
— Jonathan Coachman, Coach and Bro Show
Anticipation Among Fans and Industry Insiders
With Chris Jericho WWE return rumors gaining steam, both fans and notable wrestling figures such as Randy Orton and Chad Gable are watching closely, wondering how the iconic wrestler’s storyline will unfold. Jericho’s history of dramatic returns only fuels the sense of unpredictability, making his next move even more compelling. As major events like WrestleMania and the Royal Rumble approach, industry insiders and longtime colleagues are bracing for the potential impact of his decisions.
Legendary encounters—such as classic matches involving John Cena and memorable rivalries with other seasoned veterans—have defined Jericho’s multifaceted career. WWE’s creative team is reportedly exploring multiple scenarios in anticipation of Jericho’s return, intent on maximizing the shock factor and fan engagement across their flagship events in 2026.
Impact on Upcoming WWE Events and Next Steps
The significance of Chris Jericho’s WWE comeback, if realized, cannot be overstated. Beyond the immediate hype and speculation, his return would undoubtedly reshape heavyweight rivalries and inject fresh energy into high-profile events like the Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, and WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas. The wrestling community is on edge, as Jericho’s strategic moves have the potential to redefine the landscape, with minimal but powerful appearances that leave lasting impressions.
As the new year unfolds and anticipation builds, all eyes will remain on WWE’s creative direction and how industry titans—such as Jericho himself, along with other key names like Matt Cardona and AJ Styles—will shape the next chapter in professional wrestling. Fans and insiders alike are counting down to see whether the rumors become reality, and what surprises await when the lights shine brightest on the grandest WWE stages.
