The possibility of a Chris Jericho WWE return tease is generating significant excitement as Monday Night Raw prepares for its one-year anniversary on Netflix on January 5 in Brooklyn, New York. Rumors are swirling about Jericho’s free agent status, new storyline hints, and intense speculation among wrestling fans and insiders ahead of this milestone episode featuring three major title matches.
Jericho’s Contract Status and Speculation about His Comeback
Chris Jericho, known to many as Y2J, has become a talking point in the wrestling community, following the recent conclusion of his contract with All Elite Wrestling, which expired on December 31, 2025. This has officially made Jericho a free agent and has fueled widespread speculation about his future in the industry. Although his last match for AEW happened in May, rumors of his potential WWE return picked up months before his contract lapsed. Jericho has a long history with WWE and the company’s legion of fans, making the possibility of his return especially compelling for many.
The timing of the rumors has only intensified anticipation, coinciding with WWE’s celebration of the red brand’s first anniversary airing on Netflix. The event promises a packed card, led by three highly-anticipated championship bouts, as well as the singles return of Liv Morgan against Lyra Valkyria. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, as the event sets the stage for potential surprises.
Adam Pearce Hints at a Major WWE Surprise
Adam Pearce, the general manager for Monday Night Raw, added further fuel to the flames with an announcement on social media that seemed to reference Jericho explicitly. Sharing a video message, Pearce promoted the upcoming Raw broadcast, listing key matches and dropping a notable hint that sent the wrestling world into a frenzy. He referenced breaking down walls, an iconic phrase connected to Jericho’s WWE entrance music and his signature submission maneuver.
“Alright, everybody, Monday Night Raw is live tomorrow night from Brooklyn, New York, and it is our one-year anniversary on Netflix. We have a stacked card, first things first, breaking news, for the first time in six months, Liv Morgan will be in singles action against Lyra Valkyria, and do not forget three humongous championship matches; who can break down the walls and claim the gold?”
– Adam Pearce, General Manager
“Who can break down the walls”
– Adam Pearce, General Manager
This not-so-subtle reference is especially meaningful, as “Break the Walls Down” is both Jericho’s memorable theme song and the name of his celebrated finishing submission hold. Such clues have encouraged further speculation that Jericho may make a highly anticipated return at the upcoming anniversary show.
Division Among Wrestling Figures over Jericho’s Potential Role
The excitement about a Chris Jericho WWE return tease is not without skepticism from industry insiders. Although rumors are rampant, not everyone in the wrestling world envisions Jericho resuming an in-ring career with WWE, especially given his age and the changing nature of the wrestling business.
Vince Russo, a former WWE head writer, weighed in on the situation during a recent episode of The Coach & Bro podcast. He argued that Jericho, now 55, may no longer meet the physical demands expected of current superstars. Instead, Russo suggested that Jericho’s value may lie in a non-wrestling, creative, or managerial capacity if he does return.
“He can’t come in and wrestle at all. He doesn’t need to. We’re talkin about Chris Jericho here, he does not need to wrestle. You just need to get him in the right role and give him good creative, that’ all he needs.”
– Vince Russo, Former WWE Head Writer
This perspective echoes a broader discussion within the wrestling community, where some believe that returning veterans like Jericho can make the greatest impact by contributing outside the ring, either as on-camera personalities, trainers, or creative advisors.
The Anticipated Anniversary Show and What’s Next
The January 5 Raw episode is shaping up to be a significant event—not only as the anniversary of WWE’s deal with Netflix, but also because of the stacked match card and persistent rumors of returning legends. In addition to title matches and high-profile matchups like Liv Morgan vs. Lyra Valkyria, the speculation around Jericho’s involvement serves to heighten intrigue for both longtime and newer fans.
While the wrestling world is divided, the possibility of Chris Jericho making his return—whether as a competitor or in a different capacity—has become the focal point heading into this celebration. The combination of teases from WWE figures such as Adam Pearce and lively debate among wrestling insiders ensures that all eyes will be on Brooklyn when the red brand goes live.
Should Jericho appear, it would not only mark a pivotal moment for WWE’s ongoing evolution, but also showcase the enduring appeal and unpredictability that continue to capture the fascination of wrestling fans worldwide.
Adam Pearce whilst promoting RAW tomorrow in Brooklyn:
“Who can break down the walls”
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) January 4, 2026
