Speculation surrounding a possible Chris Jericho WWE return skyrocketed after a notable reference was made by authority figure Adam Pearce during the build-up to Monday Night Raw. Pearce’s pointed remark sparked immediate excitement among wrestling fans, driving interest as Jericho’s recent free agency status opens the door for surprise appearances.
Subtle Hints Fuel Speculation for Jericho’s Comeback
During the promotion for the upcoming WWE Raw on Netflix, Adam Pearce injected a familiar phrase into the conversation:
“Who can break down the walls?”
Pearce, known to WWE viewers as an authority figure, used a line strongly associated with Chris Jericho’s past WWE persona and iconic entrance music. The timing of this reference is notable, as Jericho was confirmed to be a free agent as of January 1, 2026, following the conclusion of his contract with All Elite Wrestling at the end of 2025.
Within WWE circles and the broader wrestling industry, Pearce’s choice of words is widely seen as an intentional nod that goes beyond mere coincidence. The context adds to speculation, with this episode of Raw celebrating one year since the show’s migration to Netflix—a milestone often marked by dramatic surprises and returns. With the Royal Rumble approaching later in the month, observers see multiple opportunities for big names to make a dramatic entrance.
Jericho’s Departure and Previous Connections
Chris Jericho’s departure from AEW followed candid remarks made in November on his Talk Is Jericho podcast. He openly praised TNA Wrestling’s Bound for Glory pay-per-view, describing it as feeling like the world’s number two company, while contrasting AEW’s production style with more modest independent shows like those run by Tony Condello. This commentary added to the sense of a career crossroads for Jericho.
Despite working with a rival promotion, Jericho has maintained visible ties to WWE. In 2022, he appeared virtually to honor John Cena‘s two decades with the company, and also took part in a sit-down interview for Broken Skull Sessions. His comments on future plans remain deliberately vague, leaving fans guessing.
What Jericho Has Said About His Next Moves
Chris Jericho’s recent statements have done little to quell excitement, with the wrestling star continuing to tease possibilities. During a live stream, he told his viewers “You never know,” reinforcing uncertainty around his future. He later shared in a radio interview,
“pretty sure you’ll see me in a wrestling ring in 2026.”
—Chris Jericho, radio interview.
Excitement Builds for the First Raw of 2026
Anticipation continues for the first WWE Raw of the year, promoted as a special Stranger Things-themed edition showcasing the show’s presence on Netflix. Adam Pearce previewed the event, heightening expectations for surprising developments. The proximity of this milestone episode to WWE’s key events, combined with Jericho’s free agent status, is amplifying the speculation further.
With Chris Jericho now officially available and the WWE calendar offering several stages for comebacks, fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely. The layered hints, anniversary timing, and Jericho’s cagey responses ensure that rumors surrounding a WWE return will remain a leading topic as 2026 unfolds.
#WWERAW GM @ScrapDaddyAP previews the FIRST Raw of 2026 🔥
A special @Stranger_Things themed episode of Raw to kick off the new year!
📺: 8e/5p on @netflix pic.twitter.com/MWCLKGl4AT
— WWE (@WWE) January 4, 2026
