Speculation regarding Chris Jericho WWE return speculation has increased recently, with rumors suggesting the wrestling legend may leave AEW to rejoin WWE once his current contract expires in late 2025. This potential move has generated a significant buzz across wrestling communities, as fans and insiders alike watch closely for any developments in Jericho’s future.
The discussions come amid reports from multiple sources asserting Jericho won’t continue with AEW, and several WWE Superstars have expressed interest in welcoming him back. Jericho’s last appearance in AEW occurred on the April 9 episode of Dynamite after a confrontation involving Big Bill and Bryan Keith. Meanwhile, his WWE tenure concluded in 2018, though he had left the company a year prior to that in a full-time role.
Ongoing Doubts Surround Jericho’s Career Direction
On his podcast What Happened When, AEW commentator Tony Schiavone addressed the swirling rumors about Jericho’s next steps. Despite spending extensive time with AEW President Tony Khan during their recent UK tour, Schiavone revealed that he never heard Jericho’s name come up in discussions. He highlighted how Khan often keeps sensitive information confidential, suggesting the absence of any mention does not confirm or deny anything.
“If there is smoke to that fire, it has not been thrown my way. I was backstage with Tony Khan most of this entire trip. Chris Jericho’s name was not mentioned, but that doesn’t mean anything. Tony a lot of times will make this — he’ll get on the phone with that person and not tell anybody. He likes to keep things close to the vest. I don’t know, I really don’t know. I’ve been wondering myself. I guess I should’ve asked, and then I would’ve known.” —Tony Schiavone, AEW Commentator
Schiavone also pointed out that he avoids asking questions about contract status, preferring to stay out of potentially sensitive matters to avoid responsibility should confidential details leak. Despite the uncertainty, recent reports circulating among AEW personnel indicate that many do not expect Jericho to return to perform with the company. Fans widely speculate Jericho could reappear at WWE’s 2026 Royal Rumble, although no official confirmation has been made by either promotion.
Jericho’s Last AEW Appearance and WWE History
Jericho’s absence from AEW television began after the April 9 Dynamite episode, where he walked away in a storyline involving Big Bill and Bryan Keith. This marked a rare and noticeable gap in his AEW activity during his contract tenure. His previous WWE run concluded with his final full-time wrestling appearances in 2017, followed by part-time stints until 2018.
The possibility of returning to WWE after nearly five years has sparked excitement along with anxiety within the wrestling industry, given Jericho’s veteran status and significant fan base. Rumors continue to swirl amid the lack of clear announcements, highlighting the fragile and often secretive negotiations behind wrestling contracts and creative plans.
Impact of Jericho’s Potential WWE Comeback
If Chris Jericho does return to WWE, it could lead to a notable shift in wrestling dynamics between the two major companies, AEW and WWE. Jericho’s influence and popularity could rejuvenate WWE’s roster and programming, while AEW would face the challenge of filling the void left by one of its marquee talents. His potential entry into the 2026 Royal Rumble is viewed as a strategic event that could generate substantial fan interest and media coverage.
The outlined speculation underscores the tension and restlessness felt by wrestling fans and insiders as they await confirmation. Jericho’s next move remains uncertain, but whatever decision he makes will likely have lasting implications on professional wrestling’s competitive landscape.
